Nissan Qashqai UK Review

The Nissan Qashqai sparked the family SUV trend that shows no signs of slowing down. This British favourite has dominated the market for 18 remarkable years, with sales exceeding four million units since its 2007 launch.

Want to learn about the Nissan Qashqai? You'll find out why this versatile SUV remains one of Britain's top-selling vehicles. The Qashqai's price range spans from £30,615 to £43,300, and its boot space varies between 455 and 504 litres based on trim level. The Kia Sportage and Skoda Karoq give tough competition in terms of interior quality and driving experience, yet the Qashqai maintains strong resale values. This review will help you decide if the Qashqai belongs in your garage, from its e-Power hybrid that delivers up to 62mpg to its performance on UK roads.

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What’s New in the 2025 Nissan Qashqai?

Nissan's 2025 Qashqai comes with notable updates that refine this popular family SUV. These changes will help it compete in a packed market segment.

Updated exterior styling and lighting

The 2025 Qashqai sports a fresh face that looks modern yet stays true to its familiar design. A redesigned front grille stands out with its prominent and angular structure, giving the car a bold road presence. The updated grille features Nissan's latest V-Motion design philosophy, creating a stronger family resemblance with other models.

The headlights are completely new, appearing thinner and more aggressive than before. LED technology now comes standard across all trim levels to improve visibility and save energy. The car's daytime running lights have been rearranged into a distinctive pattern that you'll spot instantly in your rear-view mirror.

Nissan's designers have subtly transformed the rear taillight cluster. Its new LED pattern stretches further across the tailgate and creates a premium look at night. New alloy wheels come in sizes from 17 to 20 inches based on trim level. Higher-spec versions feature a sophisticated two-tone diamond-cut finish.

Two new colours join the lineup: Ceramic Grey and Magnetic Blue. These colours showcase Nissan's special paint technology that creates deeper, more durable finishes to keep their shine longer.

Interior material and tech upgrades

The cabin addresses previous model's biggest criticism with better materials throughout. Soft-touch materials now cover the dashboard, with double stitching details in higher trims. The door panels offer extra padding where your elbows and arms rest to make long trips more comfortable.

A new infotainment system marks the most important interior change. The 12.3-inch central touchscreen now comes with Google built-in services as standard from Acenta Premium trim up. Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play Store apps integrate directly into your dashboard without needing phone connectivity.

Physical buttons have replaced the old touch-sensitive controls on the climate control panel - a return to user-friendly design over style. Mid-range models now feature a premium leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated functionality extends to more trim levels.

Better seat upholstery appears across the range. Base models get tougher fabric while higher trims offer new semi-aniline leather in black and tan. Tekna and Tekna+ models' driver's seat memory now saves mirror positions and personal infotainment settings.

New e-Power hybrid improvements

The e-Power hybrid system gets major refinements for 2025. This unique system uses a petrol engine to generate electricity for the electric motor driving the wheels. Real-world fuel economy now comes closer to the advertised 62mpg figure.

The 1.5-litre petrol generator runs in a narrower, more efficient rev range. This reduces the engine noise that sometimes bothered drivers in the previous model. Power mode transitions feel smoother with less vibration when the petrol engine starts charging the battery.

The battery size stays the same, but better power management software squeezes out more performance. The 0-62mph time drops by about 0.2 seconds. Daily driving benefits from quicker throttle response, making junction exits and overtaking easier.

Cold weather performance improves with a more efficient cabin heating system. It uses less battery power in winter, maintaining performance and efficiency in low temperatures. The regenerative braking feels more natural now, making one-pedal driving in city traffic smoother and more predictable.

Engine Options and Driving Performance

The Qashqai's engine lineup shows Nissan's two-way approach to electrification. You get both conventional mild-hybrid technology and their innovative e-Power system. These powertrain choices make a big difference to the car's character. Each option gives drivers a unique experience.

1.3 DIG-T Mild Hybrid: Manual vs Auto

The base Qashqai comes with a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine and mild-hybrid assistance in two power outputs. The 138bhp version packs enough punch to handle daily driving tasks. The low-end muscle takes care of most situations easily. The more powerful 156bhp model gives you extra zip, but the real-life difference isn't huge. Our tests showed a 0-60mph time of 9.4 seconds.

Most models come standard with a six-speed manual gearbox. The transmission has gotten mixed feedback from drivers who say it lacks feel between gear changes. The clutch bites unusually high up, which can lead to jumpy starts until you get used to it.

The automatic option, available with the 156bhp engine, does a better job. You might think a CVT wouldn't be exciting, but it matches the Qashqai's character better than the manual. The auto box gives smoother responses in city driving. If you need all-wheel drive, you'll have to pick the 156bhp engine in higher trim levels.

The mild hybrid gives you about 40mpg, whatever transmission you choose. That's decent efficiency for a family SUV this size.

e-Power Hybrid: How it works

Nissan's e-Power system takes a unique approach to hybridisation. It works more like a range-extender than a regular hybrid. The 1.5-litre petrol engine never drives the wheels directly - it just charges a 2.1kWh battery pack.

The battery powers an electric motor (190PS/187bhp) that drives the front wheels. This setup gives you quick throttle response and smooth acceleration like an EV, without needing to plug in.

Nissan has completely revamped this powertrain for 2025. The updates include a new turbo, better combustion tech, and major refinement improvements. The cabin is now up to 5.6dB quieter than before. This fixes one of the biggest problems with earlier models. The fuel economy has jumped to 62.8mpg from 53.3mpg.

A new Sport mode adds an extra 15PS (now reaching 205PS/202bhp). This makes the e-Power the most powerful Qashqai you can buy. These changes make it a great choice for anyone who wants EV-like driving without range anxiety.

0-62mph Times and Real-Life Acceleration

The Qashqai's performance numbers match its family SUV role. The acceleration is good enough across all versions:

The 138bhp mild hybrid hits 62mph in 10.2 seconds. The 156bhp manual version is quicker at 9.5 seconds. The automatic transmission shaves that down to 9.2 seconds.

The e-Power leads the pack with a 0-62mph sprint of 7.9 seconds in normal mode and 7.6 seconds in Sport mode. These numbers are impressive for a family SUV, thanks to the instant torque from the electric motor.

City driving is where the e-Power really shines. The electric-only drive helps you zip through traffic gaps and pull away from junctions quickly. The mild hybrids need more planning to overtake. Manual versions often need a downshift to find enough power.

The e-Power hybrid stands out by offering better performance and fuel economy than the mild hybrid versions. This rare combination makes it the top pick in the Qashqai range if you want both efficiency and responsiveness.

Ride Comfort and Handling on UK Roads

Ride comfort becomes the deciding factor for UK buyers looking at family SUVs, given the potholed city streets and winding country roads. The Nissan Qashqai takes a balanced approach by focusing on composure and refinement rather than sharp handling.

Suspension setup across trims

Nissan offers two different suspension configurations for the Qashqai. Your trim level and wheel size determine which one you get. Models with two-wheel drive and wheels up to 19 inches come with a torsion beam setup at the rear. This arrangement helps absorb bumps better and keeps road noise down, making the cabin quieter.

The company fits a more advanced multi-link rear suspension in models with 20-inch wheels or all-wheel drive. This sophisticated system delivers what Nissan calls a "best-in-segment balance between ride comfort and dynamic response". The multi-link system connects to the sub-frame using bushes that help reduce road vibrations.

All models use a Macpherson strut setup for front suspension. The current generation's key improvement lies in the vertical alignment of springs and dampers. This positioning lets them work in their best stroke range, which helps them absorb bumps better while keeping the ride composed.

Wheel size impact on comfort

Wheel size makes the biggest difference to the Qashqai's ride quality. The range includes options from 17-inch to 20-inch alloys, and each size changes how the car feels on the road.

The 17-inch wheels give you the smoothest ride because their higher profile tyres soak up road bumps better. Car experts generally agree these are the "most sensible wheel and tyre size for the Qashqai". The 18-inch wheels strike a good balance between looks and comfort, handling low-speed bumps well.

Bigger wheels tell a different story:

• 19-inch wheels make the ride less comfortable, and the Qashqai tends to "make more of a fuss of bumps" while feeling fidgety on faster roads
• 20-inch wheels make these effects more noticeable, with some owners noting a "jittery" feel over potholes and ridges

The Tekna+ trim and four-wheel drive versions come with better suspension that helps reduce the harsh effects of larger wheels. This explains why some drivers find 19-inch wheels comfortable enough while enjoying their better looks.

Cornering and steering feedback

The Qashqai handles competently but won't excite enthusiast drivers. The steering responds well and stays precise, though reviewers wish for "a slightly better sense of connection with the front wheels for added confidence". The light steering feels great in town where easy manoeuvring matters most.

The car controls body roll well but leans more in corners than sporty alternatives like the Ford Kuga or SEAT Ateca. Yet it stays neutral on twisty roads without feeling unstable. You can push it harder into corners with confidence, knowing it will stay controlled.

Nissan upgraded the power-steering for 2025, giving better response and feel around the centre position while reducing friction. These changes make daily driving more enjoyable, though keen drivers might still want more engagement.

The Qashqai really shines in refinement. Road and wind noise barely reach the cabin. Long motorway trips feel peaceful and relaxing. The e-Power hybrid versions run especially quietly thanks to their electric-first operation, though early models sometimes let engine noise intrude when the petrol generator started—an issue Nissan fixed in the 2025 updates.

Nissan Qashqai Interior: Design and Features

The 2025 Nissan Qashqai's cabin shows a remarkable improvement in refinement that perfectly balances practicality with premium features. This interior ranks among the best in Nissan's lineup, thanks to recent updates in material quality and technology.

Driving position and seat comfort

You'll find a superb driving position that gives you excellent forward visibility and road command. The wide range of adjustments helps most drivers find their perfect seating position. All but one of these models - the entry-level Acenta Premium - come with electrically adjustable lumbar support, which is definitely a welcome feature on long trips. The Tekna and Tekna+ models take comfort up a notch with full electric seat adjustment. The Tekna+ even adds memory settings and a massage function.

Taller drivers should note some limitations. Our tests show that anyone over six feet might need to push the seat quite far back, which can make reaching the steering wheel a stretch. The tallest members of our test team wanted more under-thigh support and a lower minimum seat height.

The back seats offer decent legroom, though e-Power models have a slightly raised floor because of the hybrid battery placement. The higher-end N-Design trim adds luxury touches with Alcantara-trimmed door panels and padded armrests in the rear.

Dashboard layout and material quality

The Qashqai's intelligent dashboard design bucks the trend of eliminating physical controls. The layout has traditional knobs and buttons for audio, ventilation, and navigation. This makes adjustments easy while driving. Nissan kept these physical climate control buttons in the 2025 model after customer feedback.

Material quality shows high improvement across all trim levels. The dashboard now features soft-touch materials with double-stitching in higher specs. N-Design trim creates a more upmarket feel by adding Alcantara accents on the dashboard, door inserts, and centre console.

A sharp, clear 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system now comes standard on all grades. Models from N-Connecta up feature Google built-in services, giving you better navigation through Google Maps and voice control via Google Assistant. Higher trims replace the base model's 7-inch digital driver display with a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster that shows information clearly and brightly.

The centre console comes thoughtfully designed with:

• Two large cupholders (though somewhat shallow)
• Wireless phone charging pad (15W)
• Multiple USB ports and a 12-volt power outlet
• Generously sized central storage bin

Visibility and cabin noise levels

The driver's seat offers good outward visibility, especially at the front and sides where the windscreen pillars obstruct less than many competitors. The rear visibility suffers somewhat from the swept-up rear window line and wider rear pillars. Every model compensates with rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera. N-Connecta trim and above add a 360-degree bird's eye view camera system and front parking sensors.

The Qashqai's refined cabin environment stands out as one of its best features. Nissan improved noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels by using acoustic glass and extra cabin insulation. This results in minimal wind and road noise, making long trips more enjoyable. E-Power models feel especially quiet thanks to their electric-first driving characteristics, which makes the Qashqai a peaceful companion on motorway journeys.

Boot Space and Practicality for Families

The Nissan Qashqai's family-friendly design is the life-blood of its appeal. This SUV's thoughtful design gives you genuine versatility in both the boot and cabin for daily use. As the innovative leader in the family SUV segment, the Qashqai gives you clever storage solutions that make family life easier.

Boot capacity by trim level

Your choice of trim level affects the Qashqai's boot capacity. Base Acenta Premium models give you the most space at 504 litres, which fits plenty of family essentials. The mid-range N-Connecta or Tekna trims have slightly less room at 479 litres because they come with standard-fit luggage boards. The top-spec Tekna+ model has 455 litres because the premium Bose subwoofer system takes up some space.

The available space grows between 1,422 and 1,447 litres when you fold down the rear seats, depending on your model. Some sources say it can reach 1,593 litres. This gives you enough room to fit bulky items like bikes or furniture.

The Qashqai stands strong against its competitors. This is a big deal as it means that its 504-litre capacity beats the Ford Kuga's 412 litres, though it's slightly smaller than the Skoda Kamiq's 521 litres. Our tests show you can fit seven carry-on suitcases under the parcel shelf, even with the smallest boot setup.

Rear seat folding and flexibility

You get a standard 60:40 split for the rear seats. This lets you carry both passengers and longer items at the same time. The load length stretches to 1,621mm with folded seats, giving you lots of space for longer items.

The Qashqai lacks some features you'll find in other cars. All but one of these rivals like the Audi Q3 and Mazda CX-5 offer a more flexible 40:20:40 split setup. The seats don't slide or recline either, unlike some Skoda Karoq versions.

You won't find handles in the boot to release the rear seatbacks—a handy feature that cars like the Seat Ateca have. You need to open each rear door to reach the release catches on top of the seatbacks.

Storage compartments and access

The Qashqai shines with its innovative Flexible Luggage Board System that offers 18 different setups. This clever dual-position system uses loose floorboards you can arrange to split the boot into sections. This works great especially when you have delicate items to transport.

The boot floor works two ways - carpet on one side for regular use and a wipe-clean surface on the other that's perfect for dirty boots or sports gear. The boards can hold up to 50kg (110 lb) in their lower position.

Wide-opening doors make it easier to install child seats. The ISOFIX points stay hidden until needed, so the cabin looks clean without losing any functionality.

The cabin has various storage spots that boost daily practicality, though with some limits. You get a small glovebox and door pockets that fit bottles but aren't very big. The centre console gives you two cup holders next to a shelf that works as a wireless charging pad in fancier models. There's also a deeper storage bin under the armrest for valuable items.

Infotainment and Connectivity Features

Car enthusiasts will love the Qashqai's complete infotainment package that lifts the driving experience with its user-friendly digital interfaces. The latest generation takes connectivity to new heights with several important upgrades from previous models.

12.3-inch touchscreen and Google integration

The Qashqai's dashboard features a sharp, responsive 12.3-inch NissanConnect touchscreen display that controls entertainment, navigation and vehicle settings. The 2025 model comes with Google built-in as standard from Acenta Premium trim upward, which adds substantial improvements to the system's capabilities. You'll get smooth access to Google Assistant, Google Maps with live updates, and more than 70 extra apps through Google Play Store without connecting your smartphone.

Google ecosystem makes daily routines easier. The system remembers your priorities once you sign into your Google Account, creating a personalised experience that fits your schedule and habits. Up to six different drivers can create unique profiles, and the Qashqai adapts to each person's language settings, radio stations, travel history and app setup.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

The Qashqai includes both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in all but one of its trims - the entry-level Visia. Wireless Apple CarPlay now comes standard, so you won't need cables anymore. Android Auto works wirelessly too, giving you clutter-free connectivity.

These smartphone systems give you quick access to navigation apps like Google Maps, music services including Spotify and Amazon Music, plus messaging and call features. You can send texts and make calls hands-free using Siri or Google's voice recognition while staying focused on the road.

Head-up display and digital cluster

A fully electronic 12.3-inch TFT multi-information display works alongside the central touchscreen, replacing traditional analogue dials in N-Connecta trim and above. This bright, customizable screen shows different layouts for navigation, entertainment, traffic updates or vehicle settings. A new tactile dial switch on the steering wheel makes adjustments simple while driving.

Tekna and Tekna+ models feature an innovative 10.8-inch Head-Up Display that projects key information onto the windscreen. This HUD boasts the segment's largest image size and shows essential navigation directions, driver assistance alerts and road information in your line of sight, making driving safer by reducing distractions.

Running Costs, MPG and CO2 Emissions

The 2025 Nissan Qashqai's running costs should catch your eye if you're shopping for a family SUV. Both private owners and company car drivers will spend less thanks to its substantially improved efficiency.

Ground fuel economy tests

The e-Power hybrid posts impressive numbers - up to 62.8mpg on official WLTP testing. This beats the previous generation's 53.3-54.3mpg handily. Real drivers typically see lower but decent returns. Independent tests showed about 50mpg with normal driving habits. The mild-hybrid versions rate between 40.4-45.6mpg officially, though actual results depend on driving style.

This gap between claimed and actual fuel economy isn't just a Nissan thing. The Australian Automobile Association found cars use up to 33% more fuel than advertised. All the same, the e-Power system works best in cities where it can tap into its electric capabilities more often.

e-Power vs Mild Hybrid efficiency

The e-Power system outshines its mild-hybrid siblings clearly. Its CO2 emissions drop as low as 102g/km, while mild-hybrid variants put out 141-157g/km. That's 12% better than the previous e-Power system.

These numbers mean something practical - range. You can drive up to 759 miles on one tank with e-Power, perfect if you worry about running dry. The mild-hybrid models give you 488-551 miles, still decent for family SUVs.

Company car tax and BIK rates

Business users will like the e-Power's 29% Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) rate, beating the mild-hybrid's 34-37%. A 20% taxpayer choosing an Acenta Premium e-Power pays about £166 monthly in company car tax. The mild-hybrid version costs £170-174 monthly.

Service schedules differ too - e-Power needs attention every 12,500 miles or yearly, while mild-hybrids go 18,000 miles or one year between services. This might affect your long-term maintenance budget.

Trim Levels and Pricing Breakdown

The Nissan Qashqai comes in five trim levels with different equipment packages that match your budget and priorities.

Acenta Premium to Tekna+: What you get

The base Acenta Premium costs £30,615 and comes with 17-inch alloys, 12.3-inch display, and front/rear parking sensors. The N-Connecta steps up to £33,085 and adds 18-inch alloys, Google built-in services, and Around View Monitor.

Want a sportier look? The N-Design at £35,005 gives you 20-inch alloys, body-coloured bumpers and privacy glass. The Tekna costs the same but focuses on comfort with ProPILOT Assist, a panoramic roof, and wireless charging.

At the top sits the Tekna+ (£39,155) with quilted leather seats, Bose audio system and 20-inch alloys. The e-Power technology bumps the Tekna+ price to £43,210.

Best value-for-money trim

N-Connecta stands out as the sweet spot in the range. You get the Google-based infotainment system, wireless phone charging, and Around View Monitor without paying premium trim prices. Better yet, typical discounts between £4,500-5,500 make it an even better deal.

Optional extras and their effect on price

You can add more features to your Qashqai with optional packages. The Heat Pack adds heated seats, steering wheel and windscreen. The Glass Roof Pack gives you a fixed panoramic roof with electric sunshade. Market research shows average savings of £5,924 off RRP, making the Qashqai cheaper than what the brochure shows.

Conclusion

The Nissan Qashqai remains a compelling choice for family SUV buyers after nearly 20 years on British roads. The 2025 updates have fixed earlier problems while building on its proven strengths. A modern exterior styling refresh brings the Qashqai up to date, but the biggest improvements are under the hood.

The e-Power hybrid system shines as the Qashqai's crown jewel. It delivers an impressive 62.8mpg efficiency and responds like an electric car. This technology gives you electric-car feel without worrying about range. The e-Power runs smoother than mild hybrid versions, especially when you drive around town.

Your choice of wheel size affects the ride quality a lot. The 17-inch and 18-inch wheels strike the best balance between comfort and looks. Higher trims come with multi-link rear suspension that helps smooth out the ride with bigger wheels. Even the Tekna+ with its 20-inch wheels handles rough British roads well.

The Qashqai's interior balances family practicality with premium features nicely. Google's built-in services make the system better to use. Nissan kept the physical climate controls after customer feedback - a smart choice for the cabin design. The Flexible Luggage Board System adds real versatility, though boot space differs between trims.

N-Connecta trim offers the best value in the range. You get plenty of features without paying premium prices. Market discounts make the Qashqai more affordable than the list price suggests.

The family SUV segment has grown crowded since the Qashqai created it in 2007. This British-built SUV still stands strong. Korean and European rivals compete hard, but the Qashqai's mix of practicality, efficiency and tech makes it a smart choice for British families. The 2025 updates have given this popular SUV fresh appeal as cars become more electric.

FAQs

Q1. What are the most common issues with the Nissan Qashqai? While generally reliable, some Qashqai owners have reported issues with alternators, CVT transmission jerking, window regulators, and steering rack noise. Regular maintenance can help prevent many of these problems.

Q2. How does the Nissan Qashqai perform in terms of reliability in the UK? The Qashqai has a decent reliability record in the UK. Its popularity and long-standing presence in the market suggest that many owners find it dependable for daily use, though like any vehicle, it may experience some issues over time.

Q3. What is the expected lifespan of a Nissan Qashqai? With proper maintenance, a Nissan Qashqai can last well over 100,000 miles. Many owners report their vehicles running smoothly beyond this milestone, especially when adhering to recommended service schedules.

Q4. Which trim level offers the best value in the Qashqai range? The N-Connecta trim is often considered the sweet spot in the range. It offers a good balance of features including Google built-in services and Around View Monitor, without the premium price of higher trims.

Q5. How does the e-Power hybrid system compare to the mild hybrid options? The e-Power hybrid system offers superior fuel efficiency, achieving up to 62.8mpg compared to 40.4-45.6mpg for mild hybrids. It also provides a more refined driving experience, particularly in urban environments, with electric-like acceleration and lower emissions.