The Nissan Qashqai compact crossover is set for an update in 2010 and it may get a new through-the-road hybrid system. The Qashqa, built at Nissan's UK plant and sold in European markets, currently uses a conventional all wheel drive system driven by a take-off from the front transaxle.
The new configuration is expected to use an electric motor to drive the rear axle with the gas powertrain remaining up front. A similar arrangement will be used by Peugeot on its new 3008 crossover starting in 2011. The difference is that Peugeot is pairing the hybrid with a diesel engine.
Nissan is also expected to update the internal combustion engines for increased efficiency and add features like regenerative braking and improved aerodynamics.
[Source: AutoExpress]
https://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/13/euro-nissan-qashqai-crossover-may-get-through-the-road-hybrid-in/
2009-09-13T18:46:00+00:00