September 2020


Nissan Qashqai Review

Since the first-generation of Nissan Qashqai’s launched in 2007, it has become the number 1 selling Crossover in the UK. The second generation launched in 2017, is showing no signs of slowing down. The Qashqai has brough in a more dramatic style and posher interior. The elevated driving position, stylish look and good running costs is a huge hit. Its rivals are the likes of the Skoda Karoq and Seat Ateca.

Trim Levels

The Qashqai offers 6 trim levels, in a choice of 6 or 7 speed transmission, diesel or petrol and manual or automatic choices. You can choose from either the standard model Visia, the Acenta Premium, the N-Connecta, the N-TEC, the Tekna or the highest model Tekna plus. The latest Qashqai gets a 1.3-litre petrol engine with a 7-speed dual clutch gear box.

Features

The Qashqai has a slick new steering wheel and an upgraded infotainment system with the latest Nissan Connect Technology. The infotainment system has never been the strong point on the Qashqai’s as it can be slow and does not have the best quality imaging. Its competitions offer a stronger better quality system, with most completely touch screen. However, some do like the Qashqai’s shortcut buttons on each side of the screen, as it can be difficult to operate the touch screen while on the move. The interior includes plenty of softy dense material, especially on the dashboard. The buttons and dials feel quality too.

The Visia comes with standard features including: DAB radio, USB port, Bluetooth connection, Cruise Control and Electric Parking Brake and Hill Start Assist. The Electric Parking Brake and Hill Start Assist technology electronically applies the brakes to hold the car in place helpful when on a hill.

The next specification is the Acenta Premium which in addition to the features on the Visia includes: the NissanConnect Navigation, Entertainment System with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, TomTom Connected Services and Shark Fin Antenna. Also comes with 17inc alloy wheels, climate control and rear camera.

The N-Connecta offering the Acenta features and additionally 18 inch alloy wheels, start push button, around view monitor, rear privacy glass, roof rails and more.

Lastly the Tekna, in addition to the previous trim levels features include an 8 speaker sound system, 19inc diamond cut alloy wheels, heated windscreen, drive assist pack, ProPilot, heated front seats, and more.

Storage in the Qashqai overall is really good with door pockets, lots of different size compartments, two cup holders in the centre and a place for your wallet or phone. Under the dashboard a small size compartment, perfect for things like receipts or loose change. The centre console arm rest compartment is massive, with an extra USB port, Aux input and a 12-bolt socket. 

Drive & Comfort

New model Qashqai has a high up commanding driving position, with premium monoform design high quality seats for ultimate comfort, holding you in place when driving around corners. The driver’s position is very good with plenty of adjustments on the steering wheel and seat. We are particularly impressed by the adjustable lumbar support, which is to correct poor posture while driving.

It is impressive how the Qashqai builds speed in low revs to give you flexibility performance in any gear, especially on with the 138bph 1.3 DiG-T N-Connecta petrol engine. The Qashqai offers a 158bph version of this model however, the difference in pace is not very noticeable for daily use unless you are using it to tow or you want the new automatic gearbox. The handling is safe and secure and, it’s easy to manage around town.

Space

The front driver and passenger space is good with enough legroom. Just like most vehicles if you choose to for got the panoramic sunroof it will significantly cut the head room, so we would not recommend if you are especially tall. The space in the back seats are also good with lots of leg and headroom. The back seats do fold down but do not slide forwards and backwards, and only fold in a 60/40 configuration, not 40/20/40 like some of its competition.

The boot space has enough room for perhaps a set of golf clubs or a weekly grocery shop. With a capacity of 430L with the seats up, and 1,598L with the seats down. The boot includes a false floor which we love! This means that there is an elevated floor allowing you to slide your belongings into the boot, rather than a deep low-down floor. This boot floor is foldable so you can lift the front half up half down, especially good to prevent your shopping bags from tipping all over the place when you drive around a corner. Or you can completely take this flooring out to utilise the deep floor.

The Nissan Qashqai remains an attractive SUV and is one of the most comfortable cars in its class. The new line-up engines and new features continue to impress. If you are looking for a family car, this should be on your shortlist

Check out our selection of Qashqai’s in stock and read about its efficiency and more >>