Nissan's Qashqai n-tec Drives Partnership with Island Records

MAPLE CROSS, UNITED KINGDOM – May 8, 2009: To cement its position as the audio fan’s favourite, Nissan has teamed up with legendary record label Island Records. With its multi-function Nissan Connect integrated in-car technology, the Nissan Qashqai and Qashqai+2 n-tec are perfect for music lovers on the move – and Island Records is at the very heart of modern music.

Island Records was founded in Jamaica in 1959 and became synonymous with reggae and the music of Bob Marley. Island's legendary reputation was assured as the home of musical icons U2, Robert Palmer, Jethro Tull, Roxy Music, Nick Drake and Frankie Goes to Hollywood during the 80s and 90s. Island is currently working with the most acclaimed acts in pop and rock music including Amy Winehouse, Paul Weller, PJ Harvey, Mika, Florence & The Machine, Gabriella Cilmi and Keane.

An immediate result of Nissan’s alliance with Island Records is the creation of a unique digital music hub, designed to allow drivers to get the most out of their multi-function Nissan Connect integrated in-car technology. Visitors to www.qashqaisland.co.uk can enhance their audio collection, and might even find a route into the big time! Celebrating the Island 50 – a series of must-see events celebrating the label’s 50th anniversary – the site is a rich resource for any music aficionado.

The Island 50 festival will kick off in May 2009 with ‘ISLAND LIFE’ – a week of live shows by Island artists past and present, which will take place at London’s Shepherds Bush Empire during the week commencing 25 May 2009. The line-up includes a wide range of artists including the Fratellis, Paul Weller and Amy Winehouse.

Launched today, www.qashqaisland.co.uk showcases legendary records and exclusive unseen footage from the extensive Island vaults, while free music downloads and gig tickets will also be available. Artists keen to be seen will also be able to express their own talents using the digital platform.

What’s more, customers visiting their local Nissan dealership to test drive the exciting new n-tec models before 30 June 2009 will be given a special access code to download exclusive tracks by Island Records artists. Up to 25 tracks of their choice can be downloaded, including music from Bob Marley, Keane, Paul Weller and U2.

Music enthusiasts looking for a new twist on old tracks can also download 50th anniversary cover versions from world-renowned artists such as Sugarbabes, The Feeling, Amy Winehouse and Joe Cocker. As if that wasn’t enough, participating customers will also be entered into a national draw to win two VIP Experiences to see an Island Records Artist live at a UK venue.

Qashqai n-tec is positioned between Acenta and Tekna grades. Combining urban style with class-leading interior technology, the innovative trim level is available with both Qashqai and Qashqai+2 bodystyles.

Both Qashqai and Qashqai+2 n-tec models are built at Nissan’s Sunderland Plant, where they are fitted as standard with the advanced yet easy to use Nissan Connect system. Integrated features include CD with MP3/WMA playback, FM/AM radio, AUX socket, USB port for full iPod connection, bluetooth connectivity, and a five-inch touch screen satellite navigation with 2D/3D map and full postcode search facility. A colour reversing camera is also incorporated into the system.

To give it the cutting edge look to go with its technology, the Qashqai and Qashqai+2 n-tec are fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic glass roof, rear privacy glass, satin silver roof rails and satin silver door handles. Inside, specification highlights include an auto-dimming rear view mirror and silver alloy pedals.