The Nissan Qashqai and Nissan X-Trail models have been among the most popular crossovers among Russians for several years in a row. However, many have criticized Nissan for being outdated and for not bringing innovative technologies to the masses. But no! This year, Nissan introduced the Nissan Qashqai and Nissan X-Trail with the ProPilot system to the Russian market. Thanks to it, the crossover can independently accelerate, brake, follow the selected lane, and also monitor the driver if he suddenly begins to lose control of the car. “Yuzhny Avtomobil” went to Karelia to test the 2021 Nissan X-Ttail/Qashqai.
What is ProPilot from Nissan
The new ProPilot system in Qashqai/X-Trail is essentially a full-fledged adaptive cruise control, which for some reason has not been available on the most popular Nissan models for so long. The system includes a set of driver assistance assistants. Although ProPilot performs some actions automatically, it is too early to talk about a full-fledged autopilot.
The system can control acceleration, braking, steering, and also helps reduce the load on the driver while driving on the highway or in heavy traffic. However, the driver must keep an eye on the road and continue to control the car.
The ProPilot system must be used on the highway, not in the city. Of course, the ProPilot system has a traffic assistant, and it will work in a traffic jam, but only if the car in front does not stop for more than three seconds. At the same time, the Russian version of the system cannot read road signs, in Europe there is such a function. But the conditions, standards and nature of traffic in Russia have a number of differences from European countries. Before launching the ProPilot system in Russia, the Russian Engineering Center of Nissan carried out a number of tests and improvements for its successful adaptation.
How the system works
Several systems are involved in the operation of ProPilot. The front camera detects the vehicle in front and the lane markings, and the radar installed under the logo on the radiator grille measures the distance to the vehicle in front. Then the electronic control unit, using the stability control system, the engine control unit and the electric power steering, keeps the car on a given trajectory and speed.
If the vehicle in front slows down, the ProPilot system will also slow down automatically. That is, the better the lane markings and the straighter the road, the better the system will work. If there is a car in front, adaptive cruise control works at speeds up to 170 km/h.
If there is no car in front, the system will not turn on at speeds below 30 km/h. With ideal asphalt and markings, the crossover drives completely independently. All you have to do is keep an eye on the ProPilot system and keep your hands on the steering wheel. If you take your hands off, the car will think that you have fallen asleep or are distracted. First, the car will begin to brake smoothly, then turn on the sound alarm, and eventually stop completely.
How to use the ProPilot system
Using the ProPilot system is intuitive. On the right side of the steering wheel there is a power button with an image of a car and two blue circles. It is necessary to hold it down and fix the current speed using the Set button. Then use the +/- keys to set the speed you need. The Cruise indicator will light up on the display between the tachometer and speedometer. You can also set the distance to the car in front – it is indicated by green stripes on the screen. If the markings are clear enough, the steering assistant will turn on and your Qashqai/X-Trail will follow in the specified lane. You can turn off the system by pressing the brake pedal. In terms of convenience and ease of use, the ProPilot system from Nissan is one of the best presented in Russia.
What else is there besides ProPilot?
In addition to the adaptive cruise control system, the 2021 Nissan Qashqai / X-Trail are also equipped with the Connect Services system. Thanks to them, using the SIM card built into the head unit, you can receive traffic and weather data and generally control a number of car functions using your smartphone. To do this, you need to download the Nissan Connect Services application to your phone from the Google Play or App Store. Next, in the application, you need to create an account indicating the VIN number. Next, after activation, you need to come up with a security code, which will be required for remote actions with the car. Thus, via the application, you can remotely start the engine and climate control, open or close the doors. Additionally, you can send a route from your smartphone to the head unit, you can see the distance to an empty tank and track the history of trips, turn on the headlights or sound the horn. Nissan Connect Service is completely free for three years after vehicle purchase.
