BEAR with the inane radio DJ chatter long enough and you may catch an ad during your morning commute touting something that sounds like a Nissan 'cashcard'.
But filter out the traffic noise and other on-road distractions and you will realise it is actually for the Nissan Qashqai - a compact crossover from Japan's No 3 carmaker.
Like its unusual name, which refers to a nomadic tribe in Iran, the Qashqai also stands out for its most un-Japanese handling. It was developed in the UK and is made there, so it feels as European as the euro.
It is sometimes referred to as a smaller and cheaper version of another Nissan SUV, the unexpectedly stylish Murano. But being less expensive doesn't mean the Qashqai is a bargain alternative.
For a start, the Qashqai isn't so much an SUV as it is a slightly taller family-sized hatchback with a higher riding position. Furthermore, it is only available as a front-wheel-drive model in Singapore, although a 4x4 version is an option elsewhere.
In fact, the label 'compact crossover' used for the Qashqai is perfectly apt because it drives better than some Japanese saloons. Its electric steering is well-weighted, accurate and quick, with none of the vagueness sometimes found in such systems. Throw the Qashqai into a series of corners and it responds enthusiastically.
And despite the elevated driving position, it doesn't seem to suffer from too much body roll. With its good centre of gravity, it works its way around an S-bend as confidently as would a sedan with a lower stance. Best of all, its suspension has that typically Continental characteristic of pliancy that allows for both driving enjoyment and ride comfort.
The car is powered by the same two-litre, four-cylinder engine found in the Lafesta MPV and Sylphy 2.0 sedan. It is noisy at higher engine speeds, but what is new is the smooth Xtronic CVT (continuously variable transmission). This latest-generation CVT features Adaptive Shift Control, which has a shift gate for manual changes.
There are two trim levels for the Qashqai - one standard and another called Premium. The latter costs $4,500 more and among the extras is a panoramic roof. This huge one-piece glass top also comes with an electrically operated sun shade.
Other additional equipment includes a dual-zone climate control air-conditioning, Xenon headlamps and a sliding armrest.
The Qashqai's launch this weekend by authorised distributor Tan Chong Motor Sales comes about nine months after the identical Dualis parallel import (PI) has been on offer here. For some reason, sales haven't been great even though it is a very competent product. Of course, that could change now it's an official import.
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CARS
