Nissan Qashqai concept to debut at the Geneva Motor Show

Feb 11, 2004 – Nissan will be unveiling the Qashqai concept car at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. The Qashqai is a compact Crossover with an advanced electronic four-wheel drive system, and reflects Nissan’s belief that consumers’ tastes are changing to echo their lifestyles, which are becoming more active. Buyers of compact Crossovers will want enough interior space for their family, the ruggedness of a 4x4, as well as the comfort and ease of driving of a traditional passenger car. In addition, buyers increasingly want a vehicle which is distinctive, allowing them to express themselves and to stand out from the crowd.

The concept is the first complete design project from the Nissan Design Europe studios that opened in London in January 2003, and is now home to over 50 international designers, modellers and support staff.

With the Qashqai, Nissan has been concentrating on customer segmentation to improve its understanding of the lifestyles and activities of its prospective customers, aiming to identify niches which will become market segments in years to come.

Qashqai is targeted at customers in an urban environment, successful in their careers considering their age. As well as working hard during the week, their car will allow them to escape the city at weekends and play hard, seeking adventure with like-minded friends.

Reflecting the lifestyles of its potential owners, the Qashqai offers space and flexibility. The interior of the car reflects the varied role it will have to play, with an innovative folding seat arrangement allowing bikes, outdoor activity equipment and the weekly shopping to be easily stowed. This flexibility is aided by rear doors which are hinged on the back edge, allowing a large loading aperture thanks to the lack of a B-pillar. Despite the lack of B-pillar, the structural strength of the Qashqai is uncompromised thanks to the individual seat mounting.

The exterior design incorporates strong Nissan DNA seen in the design of the Micra, 350Z and Primera. The Qashqai’s large wheels and exaggerated wheel-arches give the vehicle a purposeful stance, echoing the strength of a large 4x4, but with delicate design touches which endow it with a softer, less aggressive look.

	Nissan Qashqai concept to debut at the Geneva Motor Show
	Click for larger images	Feb 11, 2004 – Nissan will be unveiling the Qashqai concept car at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. The Qashqai is a compact Crossover with an advanced electronic four-wheel drive system, and reflects Nissan’s belief that consumers’ tastes are changing to echo their lifestyles, which are becoming more active. Buyers of compact Crossovers will want enough interior space for their family, the ruggedness of a 4x4, as well as the comfort and ease of driving of a traditional passenger car. In addition, buyers increasingly want a vehicle which is distinctive, allowing them to express themselves and to stand out from the crowd. The concept is the first complete design project from the Nissan Design Europe studios that opened in London in January 2003, and is now home to over 50 international designers, modellers and support staff. With the Qashqai, Nissan has been concentrating on customer segmentation to improve its understanding of the lifestyles and activities of its prospective customers, aiming to identify niches which will become market segments in years to come. Qashqai is targeted at customers in an urban environment, successful in their careers considering their age. As well as working hard during the week, their car will allow them to escape the city at weekends and play hard, seeking adventure with like-minded friends. Reflecting the lifestyles of its potential owners, the Qashqai offers space and flexibility. The interior of the car reflects the varied role it will have to play, with an innovative folding seat arrangement allowing bikes, outdoor activity equipment and the weekly shopping to be easily stowed. This flexibility is aided by rear doors which are hinged on the back edge, allowing a large loading aperture thanks to the lack of a B-pillar. Despite the lack of B-pillar, the structural strength of the Qashqai is uncompromised thanks to the individual seat mounting. The exterior design incorporates strong Nissan DNA seen in the design of the Micra, 350Z and Primera. The Qashqai’s large wheels and exaggerated wheel-arches give the vehicle a purposeful stance, echoing the strength of a large 4x4, but with delicate design touches which endow it with a softer, less aggressive look.