The Nissan Qashqai has been a remarkable success story in the British automotive industry. Not only has it been the best-selling car in the UK in recent years, but it has also played a crucial role in saving Nissan’s European operations. The Qashqai is a game changer in the crossover segment, offering the look of an off-roader without the heavy and inefficient hardware. People have responded to this concept, making the Qashqai a popular choice among car buyers.
One of the reasons for the Qashqai’s success is its production in Sunderland. While other car manufacturers have closed their manufacturing bases in the UK, Nissan continues to produce the Qashqai, showcasing the strength of British car manufacturing.
In 2024, Nissan introduced a new version of the Qashqai with several exterior and interior upgrades. Although the changes may seem superficial at first glance, Nissan is confident that they will reinforce the Qashqai’s position as the segment leader.
The Qashqai range offers a mix of four-cylinder mild-hybrid and three-cylinder full-hybrid powertrains. The range starts with the DIG-T 140 mild hybrid, which delivers 138bhp and a 0-62mph time of 10.2 seconds. The DIG-T 158 mild hybrid offers 155bhp and a 0-62mph sprint of 9.5 seconds. The full-hybrid e-Power models provide even more power, with 187bhp and a 0-62mph time of 7.9 seconds.
The new Qashqai features a refreshed exterior design inspired by Japanese samurai helmets. The headlights and daytime running lights have also been redesigned to give the car a more aggressive and sharper appearance. Despite the changes, the dimensions of the Qashqai remain the same as its predecessor, and it rides on an updated version of the Renault Nissan Alliance’s CMF-C platform.
Inside the Qashqai, Nissan has focused on improving technology. The infotainment system now comes with Google built-in, offering features like Google Maps and Google Assistant. The system is responsive and user-friendly. The cabin also offers multiple charging ports and sockets, making it convenient for passengers to charge their devices.
In terms of performance, the Qashqai’s e-Power hybrid system stands out. It offers smooth and brisk acceleration, and the driving experience is reminiscent of a pure-electric vehicle. Other variants of the Qashqai, however, are let down by disappointing gearboxes. The six-speed manual feels spongy, while the X-tronic CVT suffers from acceleration surges and poor integration with the start/stop system.
On the road, the Qashqai prioritizes ride comfort over dynamic handling. It handles most bumps well and offers a comfortable and quiet driving experience. The steering lacks feel, but maneuverability is hassle-free. The Qashqai also excels in terms of rolling refinement, with reduced wind and road noise compared to its predecessor.
In terms of running costs, the Qashqai’s e-Power hybrid powertrain proves to be genuinely economical in daily use. However, the entry-level engine with a manual gearbox is not as frugal. Buyers should also consider reliability concerns, as Nissan cars have sometimes fared poorly in UK reliability surveys.
Overall, the 2024 facelift has moved the Qashqai forward, enhancing its technology, styling, and driving dynamics. The Qashqai remains a safe, predictable, and rational choice in the crossover segment. It competes well against more premium rivals like the Volkswagen Tiguan and Audi Q3. With its comfortable and well-equipped interior, the Qashqai is an appealing option for families looking for a crossover at a reasonable price.
