Following a year where new car sales fell for the first time in six years, 2018 has got off to a rocky start with sales dropping 6.3% compared to January 2017. Diesel has dragged this figure down having fallen a staggering 25.6%, which goes to show that the public’s perception of diesel has changed following the emissions scandal and the Government’s proposed 2040 ban on petrol and diesel.
Consequences of Brexit
Understandably, this is a cause of great concern for many manufacturers and particularly with the uncertainty over Brexit weighing heavy overhead. In fact, Japanese manufacturer Nissan (amongst other Japanese companies) are set to meet with P.M Theresa May and Philip Hammond to discuss their position in the country having spent billions over the years with promise of a great base to trade across the EU.
Nissan’s Production
Nissan runs the biggest car factory in Britain and committed in 2016 to build the next generation Qashqai and X-Trail here after a promise of extra support from the Government if Brexit impacts its position. The Qashqai has proved to be an immensely popular crossover in recent times and many claim that it is the vehicle that triggered Europe’s obsession with this vehicle type.
A Vehicle in Demand
Interestingly, these vehicles are still in demand in the UK with SUVs being the only vehicle type to show growth in January with demand up 6.6%. The Qashqai has certainly contributed to this and is a car which combines the power of an SUV with the comfort of a family vehicle. Despite the market shrinking, this model was actually the UK’s fourth best-selling car in 2017 having sold 64,903 units. It is only bettered iconic UK favourites the Ford Fiesta (94,533), the VW Golf (74,605) and the Ford Focus (69,903).
The Qashqai
The reason that this model has proven to be so popular and remains in demand is the fact that it is a great all-rounder. It provides a solid driving experience, it one of the most economical in its class (74mpg), spacious inside and very well-built. This all makes it a class leader and a vehicle that is well suited to a range of motorist types. It can also be found for affordable prices from used car dealerships like Motorpoint.
Whilst there is a great deal of uncertainty in the air surrounding the Government’s clean air plans and Brexit, Nissan has managed to perform well despite the shrinking market and this is largely thanks to their excellent Qashqai model. What the future holds will soon be decided once May meets with major Japanese investors and issues surrounding alignment with the EU are resolved within her party.
