The Qashqai is certainly one of the bigger cars in the small SUV class.There might be four models, but there are three specification levels. The ST has cloth trim, cruise control, air-conditioning, some fake leather bits and pieces, reversing camera, halogen headlights, four speaker stereo and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Pros Big interior Excellent build quality Comfortable ride
Cons Interior missing some tech toys Diesel servicing costs Fuel consumption high (no stop-start to reduce it)
This is the facelifted Nissan Qashqai, which has been unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show. More than 230,000 examples of the Qashqai were sold in Europe in 2016, but that hasn’t stopped Nissan from giving the its family SUV a thorough overhaul. The headline change is the addition of autonomous driving tech called ProPILOT; by the end of the year, the Qashqai will have the ability to steer, accelerate and brake itself in a single lane on motorways. Nissan can’t yet say whether or not this will be standard on top trim levels, however. Nissan claims higher-quality materials give the SUV’s cabin a more premium feel. Visible changes include a new flat-bottomed multifunction steering wheel and a fresh user interface for the infotainment system. And a new range-topping Tekna+ grade has been added, bringing luxuries such as 3D-effect quilted leather upholstery.
The new Qashqai features modifications to the suspension and steering to improve comfort, while new insulating materials are claimed to make it more refined. No changes have been made to the range of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, however, so buyers can choose from an entry-level 113bhp 1.2-litre petrol, a 161bhp 1.6-litre petrol, and 1.5 or 1.6-litre diesels. The 1.5 dCi 110 should be the cheapest to run, with CO2 emissions of 99g/km.
The 2017 Toyota Highlander ranks 3 out of 18 Midsize SUVs. With an unmatched list of standard advanced driver assistance features, the 2017 Toyota Highlander is one of the best values in the midsize SUV class. Its interior is high-end and comfortable, and there’s plenty of cargo space.
Pros Lots of standard active safety features Above-average fuel economy Comfortable and quiet on the highway
Cons Dull performance and handling Cramped third-row seat
The Toyota Highlander gets a stronger, more responsive powertrain for 2017, but the main strengths are the ride quality, the cabin refinement, and the space for eight. A somewhat more aggressive look, more power, an improved set of safety features, and a new sportier SE model highlight the changes Toyota is ushering in for its spacious crossover utility vehicle, the 2017 Highlander. The SE joins LE, LE Plus, XLE, Limited, and Limited Platinum models. The Highlander Hybrid is now also available in LE and XLE trims, in addition to the carry-over Limited and Limited Platinum.
Pros Wide range of powertrains Flexible second row Easy third-row access Good connectivity Cabin quality
Cons Design is soemwhat bland Base engine is under powered Somewhat busy dash design Hybrid only delivers if you drive gingerly
For 2017, the Highlander receives a number of significant midcycle changes. The styling has been updated, highlighted by a larger, more pronounced grille and redesigned LED taillights. The V6 engine is new, boasting more power and better fuel economy along with an eight-speed transmission and an automatic stop-start system. New feature content includes the Toyota Safety Sense technology suite, which comes standard on every trim level. There's also a new SE trim level that features uniquely sporty styling elements and a retuned suspension for sharper handling.
Pros Just-right exterior and interior size for many families Standard high-tech safety features Strong V6 engine with improved fuel economy Quiet and compliant ride
Cons Third-row seat isn't as roomy as those of many competitors Touchscreen and other controls may require an extra-long reach Undesirable base four-cylinder engine
