Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

Its virtues are the secret to the success of the Nissan Qashqai: That special blend of an elevated driving position, stylish and rugged good looks coupled with reasonable running costs. These are the positives that triggered this vehicle’s popularity with the public from the word go. It’s been around through two previous generations now and the latest version is better than ever, the ideal new and used car for small family buyers wishing to import from the UK to Kenya, New Zealand and other global destinations.

The Exterior

For this third-gen model the exterior has been sharpened up for a more contemporary look. The shoulder lines of this Japanese crossover are more prominent, the wheelbase is extended and 20” alloy wheels are optional for the first time. In fact, the wheelbase of the car has increased by 20mm with the overall length increasing by 35mm. Height and width are also slightly bigger. The brand trim levels are the same as on other models, with Tekna being the flagship version. There’s a glass roof available at this level too.

At the front, an enlarged version of the Nissan V-Motion grille features with chrome detailing to enhance the look. Slim, full LED advanced matrix headlamps with daylight running lights sit either side. From the side, the new Qashqai offers a more dynamic styling featuring a single ‘fast line’ that strikes through the car from the front to the rear, for a striking appearance. As mentioned, 20” diamond-cut alloy wheels are an option, filling the wheel-arches contributing to the robust appearance overall.

The Interior

The interior of the latest Qashqai offers a quality feel with a distinctive design and improved functionality and all versions get DAB radio and Bluetooth. In our fast-moving world most drivers will appreciate the white ambient interior lighting giving a premium and harmonious impression. The Qashqai’s cabin is smart and feels well put together compared to some other brands. Faux-leather panels on the dashboard and insides of the doors give the ambience a welcome lift.

The dashboard has a new design and attention has been paid to the ergonomic and well-engineered quality of the switch gear and buttons giving a premium, tactile feel. Centre stage there's the two displays: The larger, higher resolution 9” ‘NissanConnect’ screen is the company’s digital gateway to navigation, entertainment and vehicle settings, compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A new high-definition, fully electronic 12.3” TFT multi-information screen offers a choice of configurable layouts to display navigation, entertainment, traffic or vehicle information, all conveniently controlled from a new dial switch on the steering wheel.

Driving The Nissan Qashqai

A strong diesel engine is available on some models or there’s a choice between between two 1.3 litre petrol engines, both of which offer mild hybrid technology. In this case the Nissan Qashqai's starter motor can also act as a generator, harvesting energy that would otherwise be lost when slowing down to charge a tiny battery. It then switches roles, using the energy it's captured to assist the petrol engine at low speeds and improve fuel economy.

Wheel sizes range from 17” to 20”, the larger getting low-profile tyres. To compensate for the firmer ride the bigger wheels give (and its not often a car maker thinks of this), the vehicle comes with a more sophisticated rear suspension, which helps to counter any extra firmness brought about by the lower-profile tyres.

Handling is good as would be expected from a modern crossover, the high seating position of the driver aiding visibility. Both petrol engines have a light and smooth six-speed manual gearbox but if an automatic gearbox is preferred on new car orders buyers will need to opt for the more powerful 160bhp engine.

This car has a roomy interior with sufficient head and leg room and, an added bonus, the rear doors open wide for ease of access. Another plus point. 504 litres of luggage space is enough for most trips and there’s extra storage under the false floor in the boot (trunk). Ample small storage is also provided in the cabin.

Is It Reliable?

Nissan have a good name for reliability and this car is tried and tested over time. As before, the Qashqai is a strong contender in the crowded market place for family-sized medium SUV models. Have a look at our Nissan Qashqai page which features detailed specifications of available models.