In a move no one quite expected, Nissan has decided to bring the popular European Qashqai model to the U.S. and introduce the Rogue Hybrid to the American market. The Japanese automaker believes the additions will be successful in the U.S. due to current high demand for the gas-powered Rogue models and the popularity of the Qashqai in both Europe and Australia.
Although the Nissan Rogue and Qashqai are very similar vehicles, there very well could be room for both crossovers in the American market. The Rogue Hybrid will provide versatility and fuel efficiency, while the Qashqai, which is 10 inches shorter and two inches narrower than the Rogue, will target buyers who want to drive a crossover, but are not worried about versatility. The Qashqai is more of a luxury vehicle than your average CUV and is constructed of high-quality sheet metal. Its great driving dynamics and fancy styling are likely to entice buyers across the market.
The Rogue Hybrid is currently expected to make its official debut on the market in 2016, but we do not know when the Qashqai will land in the States. We expect for information to be released about each model in the next few months.