Nissan Qashqai Review: Is It The Right SUV For You?

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Nissan Qashqai Review: Is It the Right SUV for You?

So, you're thinking about getting a Nissan Qashqai, huh? Good choice! Or at least, it could be a good choice. The Qashqai has been a super popular compact SUV for years, and for good reason. It's stylish, practical, and generally pretty good value for money. But, like anything, it's not perfect. In this review, we're going to dive deep into the Qashqai, looking at everything from its performance and fuel economy to its interior comfort and technology. We'll also compare it to some of its rivals to help you decide if it's the right car for you.

What is the Nissan Qashqai?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's quickly cover what the Qashqai actually is. Basically, it's a compact SUV, meaning it's smaller than your typical SUV but bigger than a hatchback. It's designed to be a practical family car, offering a raised driving position, a decent amount of space, and reasonable running costs. It's been around since 2007 and has consistently been one of Nissan's best-selling models in Europe. Think of it as a slightly more stylish and practical alternative to a regular hatchback.

Driving Experience: How Does the Qashqai Perform?

Let's get down to the driving experience. The Nissan Qashqai offers a generally comfortable and composed ride. The suspension does a decent job of absorbing bumps and potholes, making it well-suited for city driving and longer journeys. However, it's not exactly the most exciting car to drive. The steering is light and accurate, but it lacks a bit of feel, and the handling is safe and predictable rather than sporty. If you're looking for a car that will put a smile on your face on a twisty road, the Qashqai probably isn't it. The engine options are adequate, with a range of petrol and diesel units available. The petrol engines are generally quieter and smoother, while the diesels offer better fuel economy, especially on long journeys. However, the diesels can be a bit noisy and unrefined, particularly when cold. Overall, the driving experience is competent and comfortable, but not particularly thrilling.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

  • Engine Options: The engine range typically includes a selection of petrol and diesel engines. The specific options vary depending on the model year and trim level. Petrol engines generally offer a smoother and quieter experience, while diesel engines provide better fuel economy, especially on long journeys.
  • Performance: Performance is adequate for most driving situations. The Qashqai accelerates smoothly and has enough power for overtaking, but it's not particularly quick. If you regularly carry heavy loads or tow a trailer, you might want to consider a more powerful engine.
  • Handling: Handling is safe and predictable. The Qashqai is easy to drive and feels stable in corners, but it's not particularly sporty. The steering is light and accurate, but it lacks a bit of feel.
  • Ride Comfort: Ride comfort is generally good. The suspension does a decent job of absorbing bumps and potholes, making it well-suited for city driving and longer journeys. However, the ride can be a bit firm on rough roads.

Interior and Practicality: Is the Qashqai a Good Family Car?

Now, let's step inside. The interior of the Nissan Qashqai is generally well-designed and practical. The materials are of decent quality, and the layout is straightforward and easy to use. The seats are comfortable, and there's plenty of space for front-seat passengers. Rear-seat space is adequate for adults on shorter journeys, but it can be a bit tight for taller passengers on longer trips. The boot is a decent size and offers enough space for luggage or shopping. However, it's not the biggest in its class. One of the Qashqai's strengths is its practicality. It has plenty of storage compartments, including a glovebox, door pockets, and a center console. The rear seats also fold down to create a larger load space. Overall, the interior is a pleasant place to be, and the Qashqai is a practical choice for families.

Some more details to consider:

  • Dashboard and Controls: The dashboard is well-laid out and easy to use. The controls are logically placed and simple to operate. The infotainment system is generally intuitive, but it can be a bit slow to respond at times.
  • Space and Comfort: There's plenty of space for front-seat passengers, and the seats are comfortable. Rear-seat space is adequate for adults on shorter journeys, but it can be a bit tight for taller passengers on longer trips. The boot is a decent size and offers enough space for luggage or shopping.
  • Practicality: The Qashqai is a practical car with plenty of storage compartments. The rear seats also fold down to create a larger load space. The high driving position gives you a good view of the road.

Technology and Features: What Gadgets Does the Qashqai Have?

The Nissan Qashqai comes with a decent amount of technology and features, depending on the trim level. Even the base models come with essential features like air conditioning, a radio, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trim levels add features like a touchscreen infotainment system, satellite navigation, a rearview camera, and parking sensors. Some models also come with advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The infotainment system is generally easy to use, but it can be a bit slow to respond at times. The graphics are also a bit dated compared to some of its rivals. Overall, the Qashqai offers a good range of technology and features, but it's not the most cutting-edge in its class.

Here’s a closer look at the technology:

  • Infotainment System: The infotainment system typically includes a touchscreen display, satellite navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration. The system is generally easy to use, but it can be a bit slow to respond at times.
  • Safety Features: The Qashqai comes with a range of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rearview camera. These features can help to prevent accidents and make driving safer.
  • Other Features: Other available features include a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, a premium sound system, and keyless entry. These features can add to the comfort and convenience of the Qashqai.

Fuel Economy and Running Costs: How Much Will the Qashqai Cost to Run?

Fuel economy is an important consideration for any car buyer. The Nissan Qashqai generally offers reasonable fuel economy, especially the diesel models. The petrol engines are less fuel-efficient, but they are also quieter and smoother. Running costs are generally average for its class. Servicing and maintenance are relatively affordable, and insurance costs are also reasonable. However, it's worth noting that the Qashqai can be a bit more expensive to repair than some of its rivals. Overall, the Qashqai is a reasonably affordable car to run, but it's not the cheapest in its class.

More specifically:

  • Fuel Consumption: Fuel consumption varies depending on the engine and driving conditions. The diesel engines generally offer better fuel economy than the petrol engines. Real-world fuel consumption may be higher than the official figures.
  • Servicing and Maintenance: Servicing and maintenance costs are relatively affordable. Nissan offers a range of service plans to help you budget for these costs.
  • Insurance: Insurance costs are generally reasonable for the Qashqai. However, the exact cost will depend on your age, driving experience, and location.

Reliability: Is the Qashqai a Reliable Car?

Reliability is another important factor to consider. The Nissan Qashqai has a mixed reputation for reliability. Some owners have reported problems with the engine, gearbox, and electrical systems, while others have had no issues at all. It's worth doing your research and reading owner reviews before buying a Qashqai. It's also important to make sure that the car has been properly serviced and maintained. Overall, the Qashqai is not the most reliable car in its class, but it's not the least reliable either.

Points to note on reliability:

  • Common Problems: Some common problems reported by Qashqai owners include issues with the engine, gearbox, and electrical systems. It's important to be aware of these potential problems before buying a Qashqai.
  • Servicing and Maintenance: Regular servicing and maintenance are essential to keep your Qashqai running smoothly. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule.
  • Warranty: The Qashqai comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty. This warranty covers you for a certain period of time or mileage against defects in materials or workmanship.

Alternatives: What Other Cars Should You Consider?

The compact SUV market is packed with competitors. Some of the Qashqai's main rivals include the Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, Mazda CX-5, and SEAT Ateca. The Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson offer similar levels of practicality and value for money, while the Mazda CX-5 is a more stylish and sporty option. The SEAT Ateca is a more affordable and fun-to-drive alternative. Ultimately, the best car for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Consider these alternatives:

  • Kia Sportage: The Kia Sportage is a stylish and well-equipped compact SUV that offers excellent value for money. It comes with a long warranty and a range of efficient engines.
  • Hyundai Tucson: The Hyundai Tucson is another strong contender in the compact SUV market. It's spacious, comfortable, and comes with a range of advanced technology features.
  • Mazda CX-5: The Mazda CX-5 is a more stylish and sporty option than the Qashqai. It offers a refined driving experience and a high-quality interior.
  • SEAT Ateca: The SEAT Ateca is a more affordable and fun-to-drive alternative to the Qashqai. It's practical, well-equipped, and offers a good range of engines.

Conclusion: Is the Nissan Qashqai the Right Car for You?

So, is the Nissan Qashqai the right car for you? Well, it depends. It's a decent all-rounder that offers a good balance of practicality, comfort, and value for money. It's well-suited for families and those who need a practical and versatile car for everyday use. However, it's not the most exciting car to drive, and its reliability record is a bit mixed. If you're looking for a sporty SUV or a car with cutting-edge technology, you might want to consider some of its rivals. But if you're looking for a practical, affordable, and comfortable family car, the Qashqai is definitely worth a look. Ultimately, the best way to decide if it's the right car for you is to take it for a test drive and see how it feels.

Ultimately, deciding whether the Nissan Qashqai is the right choice involves weighing its strengths and weaknesses against your specific needs and priorities. It consistently ranks as a popular choice in the compact SUV segment, and for good reason. Before making a decision, research, compare, and test drive to ensure it aligns with your requirements.