If you’re sold on the Qashqai, you certainly won’t be alone. Hundreds of thousands of UK buyers have seen it as a good idea since 2007. The appeal of the current car revolves around its comfort, quality and impressive Google-based infotainment tech. Keen drivers may want to look elsewhere because neither the driving experience nor the level of performance from the engines do much to excite.
Nissan has tailored its mid-size SUV to deliver the goods for family buyers in this competitive market and succeeded in ticking most of the boxes that matter. The most recent changes give it a more distinctive appearance to help it stand out in a crowded marketplace but it’s still the Qashqai’s more prosaic qualities that give it an edge.
Nissan Qashqai Tekna+: long-term test
In 2022, our Web producer, Pete Baiden, spent nearly a year behind the wheel of a top-of-the-range pre-facelift Nissan Qashqai Tekna+ and was left with mixed feelings about it. On the one hand, it was a very practical car, with thoughtful touches such as the rear doors that opened to nearly 90-degrees, which made putting children into car seats easy, and a split-height boot with no loading lip that helped when transporting a buggy.
However, the driver’s seat left him with backache after every long trip he took in it, whereas previous long term test cars such as the SsangYong Korando and SEAT Tarraco had not. Even the massage function on his high-spec Qashqai didn’t help, with Pete likening the sensation to being kicked in the back by one of his children. You can read the full long term test here…
Used and nearly new
You won’t find the popular Nissan Qashqai in short supply on the used market. Since it first arrived in the UK in 2007, the Japanese mid-size SUV has positioned itself as the ‘go-to’ option for families needing a practical car that’s good to drive. The Qashqai may have developed a somewhat anonymous image over time, but it was quite revolutionary when launched – offering buyers a funky new crossover style.
Nissan Qashqai history
Nissan Qashqai Mk2: 2014-2020
The Mk2 Nissan Qashqai range offers reasonably efficient engines and decent levels of kit, although the base cars can are sparse. There has been mixed feedback regarding the Qashqai’s overall reliability, so check over the car’s history and ensure any recall notices have been attended to. Both front- and four-wheel-drive models are available, along with manual and CVT auto versions, so buyers should be well catered for. Read our full Mk2 Nissan Qashqai buyer’s guide here…
Nissan Qashqai Mk1: 2007-2013
The Mk1 Nissan Qashqai still provides great family transport. Its crossover-style good looks and useful practicality mean it will still appeal to buyers seeking a capable SUV. Of course, time has marched on, but the first-generation Qashqai is becoming more affordable, and its low running costs will suit those on a budget. Look out for the reasonable mid-spec Acenta models, which include parking sensors and climate control, while if you’re after a little more luxury, then the top-spec Tekna versions, boasting leather upholstery heated seats and a panoramic glass roof, could hit the spot. Read our full Mk1 Nissan Qashqai buyer’s guide here…
Frequently Asked Questions
Nissan offers a bog-standard three-year or 60,000-mile warranty with the Qashqai but you can extend it for a fee
