Nissan Qashqai 2026 gains new e-Power hybrid system

The Nissan Qashqai is set to receive an update, led by the debut of the latest-generation e-Power hybrid system, which promises stronger performance and lower fuel consumption. It is due to arrive on the market in September.

Unlike other non-plug-in hybrids, the e-Power system continues to operate as a petrol-powered electric vehicle: the electric motor always drives the car, while the petrol engine functions solely as a generator.

Nissan Qashqai e-Power: a new generation

Now in its third generation, Nissan's e-Power system introduces a more efficient petrol engine alongside a new, lighter and more compact modular 5-in-1 electric drive unit. Among its integrated components are the electric motor, inverter and reduction gearbox.

The electric motor is now more powerful, producing 151 kW (205 hp), an increase of 11 kW (15 hp) over the previous version. Sport mode provides a further 10 kW (14 hp). The real highlight of the Nissan Qashqai 2026, however, is its reduced consumption and CO₂ emissions: 4.5 l/100 km and 102 g/km, down by 0.6 l/100 km and 14 g/km respectively compared with the current model.

The result? A 1,200 km combined WLTP range.

What has changed?

The current Qashqai e-Power uses a turbocharged 1.5-litre inline three-cylinder engine, and that remains the case. However, Nissan has dropped the variable-compression-ratio system, saying it has become “redundant” because of all the engine's new features.

STARC combustion technology and improved efficiency

The key development is the introduction of the manufacturer's proprietary STARC combustion concept - short for “strong, tumble and appropriately stretched robust ignition channel”. Put simply, it can be described as an optimised, more robust combustion chamber.

The principal advantage of this concept is the improvement in thermal efficiency, which now reaches 42%. That figure is close to diesel-engine levels and exceeds the 41% Toyota claims for the 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle engine used in its hybrids.

The Japanese manufacturer says the new system is more efficient and quieter at lower speeds. At higher speeds, such as motorway driving, noise has also been cut with the help of a larger turbocharger, which lowers engine speed by 200 rpm. The improvement in acoustic comfort is substantial, with 5.6 dB less noise inside the Qashqai cabin.

One element of the e-Power system remains unchanged: its battery retains a 2.1 kWh capacity.

What else is new on the Nissan Qashqai 2026?

The Nissan Qashqai 2026 will also gain additional technology, including upgrades to its driver-assistance and connectivity systems. In the former case, ProPILOT has been enhanced for automated driving on multi-lane roads.

Meanwhile, the Google-based infotainment system provides access to Google Maps, Assistant - enabling voice commands - and the Play Store. Another addition is Nissan Trip Stories, which lets users record and share their favourite journeys through the NissanConnect Services app.

As mentioned, the Nissan Qashqai 2026 is scheduled to reach the market in September.