Nissan Qashqai review

Overview

This review covers the second-generation Qashqai, known as J11, sold in the UK from 2014 to 2021. The recommendation narrows that broad generation to the 1.3 DIG-T 140 PS six-speed manual introduced late in the model’s life, in N-Connecta trim. RoadMatch therefore sets the searchable recommendation window to 2018–2021 rather than implying that this engine existed in 2014. The Qashqai’s appeal is straightforward: an elevated driving position, family-friendly access and hatchback-like road manners in dimensions that remain easy to park. A substantial 2017 facelift and the later engine update mean early and late examples differ meaningfully in cabin technology, refinement and ownership case.

Exterior and interior

The J11 established the visual template for many modern family crossovers: a raised bonnet, protective lower cladding and a high roof without the bulk of a full-sized SUV. The 2017 facelift sharpened the nose, revised the lights and improved perceived cabin quality. Inside, the dashboard is conventional and easy to learn, with physical climate controls and a clear instrument binnacle. N-Connecta adds useful visual and convenience equipment, but the small infotainment graphics and some gloss-black surfaces now look dated. The seating position offers a good view ahead, although thick rear pillars restrict the view behind; make sure the camera lenses and parking sensors work cleanly because they materially improve daily usability.

Practicality

There are five seats and enough rear room for two adults or a pair of child seats, though three across the bench is a squeeze and the middle passenger gets the least comfortable position. Wide-opening doors and the higher hip point reduce bending when fitting children. The official 430-litre boot is a useful square shape for shopping, pushchairs and holiday bags, while the split rear backrest extends capacity for longer loads. It is practical rather than class-leading: a Volkswagen Tiguan or Skoda Karoq can offer more flexible space, and the Qashqai has no seven-seat option. Check for damp below the boot floor and confirm the parcel shelf and adjustable floor pieces are present.

Driving experience

Comfort is the Qashqai’s priority. The suspension takes the sharp edge off broken urban roads and the light steering makes manoeuvring undemanding, while the body remains composed enough for ordinary A-road use. It does not communicate or change direction as crisply as a Ford Focus, and larger wheels can add low-speed fidget, but most family buyers will value the relaxed character. On the motorway it cruises securely, with some tyre and wind noise rather than premium-car isolation. The clutch, steering and brakes should all operate progressively. During a viewing, use rough roads and a full-lock manoeuvre to expose suspension knocks, steering noise or unevenly worn tyres.

Performance

The later turbocharged 1.3-litre petrol produces 140 PS and 260 Nm and uses a six-speed manual gearbox. Nissan’s model-year 2021 technical data quotes 0–100 km/h, effectively 0–62 mph, in 10.1 seconds. It has enough torque for a loaded family car and requires fewer downshifts than the earlier 1.2 DIG-T, without the purchase and emissions-system considerations of a diesel used mainly for short journeys. It is still a measured rather than rapid crossover. A 160 PS version with a dual-clutch automatic was offered, but brings different performance, economy and maintenance considerations and is not covered by this recommendation’s headline figures.

Fuel economy

Official Nissan model-year 2021 data gives 6.3–6.8 litres per 100 km combined WLTP for the manual 140 PS engine, equivalent to approximately 44.8–41.5 imperial mpg. RoadMatch displays 44.8 mpg as the official best end of that range. Earlier adverts may quote around 49 mpg from the older NEDC regime, so the test method and exact derivative must be checked before comparison. The Qashqai’s height and mass mean repeated high-speed use will usually consume more fuel than an equivalent family hatchback. Calculate cost from personal annual mileage and realistic route mix; a diesel only makes sense where sustained mileage allows its emissions system to operate properly.

Reliability

Generation-wide reliability evidence is mixed, and it would be misleading to transfer every reported problem to the later 1.3 engine. Early 1.2 petrol and diesel reports account for a significant part of the J11 ownership discussion, while batteries, infotainment, sensors and chassis wear can affect cars across the range. RoadMatch therefore gives the recommended 1.3 moderate confidence rather than a blanket reliability promise. Demand a complete service history, start the engine from cold, check for warning lights and smooth turbo response, test every camera and key, and inspect tyres and brakes. Confirm applicable recalls by VIN through the government checker and ask Nissan whether manufacturer campaigns are outstanding.

Safety

Euro NCAP awarded the J11 Qashqai five stars when tested in 2014, with 88% adult-occupant, 83% child-occupant, 69% pedestrian and 79% safety-assist scores. The rating is now expired and was earned under a 2014 protocol using a left-hand-drive 1.5 dCi Acenta, although Euro NCAP stated the rating applied to the tested specification range. Stability control and seatbelt reminders were standard; forward emergency braking and lane-departure warning were optional systems meeting fitment requirements in that assessment. Later N-Connecta equipment is generally stronger, but buyers must confirm the exact build rather than assuming every safety feature was standard throughout seven years of production.

Technology and features

N-Connecta is recommended because it combines the J11’s sensible fundamentals with parking assistance and a broader infotainment specification. On later cars, NissanConnect supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the Around View Monitor’s multiple cameras are especially useful given the restricted rear view. Cruise control and parking sensors are also common to the target specification. Earlier cars, lower trims and mid-cycle specification changes do not necessarily match, and the screen hardware is slower and smaller than in the replacement Qashqai. Test phone pairing, navigation, all camera angles, touchscreen edges, Bluetooth audio, both keys and the climate system for long enough to expose intermittent faults.

Running costs

The Qashqai uses mainstream mechanical components and tyre sizes, but its crossover weight means fuel, tyres and brakes generally cost more than for a small hatchback. RoadMatch’s £1,850–£2,450 annual planning estimate includes indicative fuel, tax, scheduled servicing, MOT and a maintenance allowance; it excludes insurance, finance, depreciation and unexpected repairs. Insurance groups around 15–17 are a useful guide for comparable 1.3 N-Connecta derivatives, not a quote. Obtain a registration-specific premium, especially for a younger driver. A professional inspection and documented service history are worth paying for because the cheapest high-mileage example can quickly lose its apparent saving through tyres, brakes, battery or electronic diagnosis.

Advantages and disadvantages