Driving through a six-speed manual transmission, this advanced turbocharged engine delivers 115PS (85kW) and generates 190Nm of torque. Despite its modest size, the 1.2-litre engine packs a real punch, offering sharper acceleration and greater flexibility than the outgoing 1.6-litre naturally aspirated engine.
Its lower weight and more fuel-efficient operation also mean that the entry-level petrol Qashqai is considerably cleaner and more economical than the model it replaces. The 1.2 DIG-T engine emits 129g/km of CO₂ (10g/km less than the outgoing 1.6-litre petrol unit), and has a fuel consumption figure of 5.6 l/100km (0.6 l/100 improvement over the outgoing 1.6-litre).
Like all engines in the new Qashqai range, the 1.2 DIG-T is equipped with Start/Stop ignition as standard, and benefits from a raft of fuel-saving technologies, including a regenerative alternator, optimised gear ratios and special low-viscosity oils.