Who knew crossovers would go on to prove so popular when Nissan single-handedly created the segment with the Qashqai back in 2007? A direct replacement for the Almera hatch, this British-built car has gone on to become one of the most important and recognisable in the company’s history.
Now in its third-generation, the Mk3 first hit our roads in 2021. Times and tastes change quickly, though, and as a result the Qashqai has been given a new lease of life with a visual makeover. The key changes have been applied to a nose dominated by a huge but also intricate grille that blends into the fresh LED daytime running lights. Smart alloy wheel profiles, sophisticated LED tail-lights, and a sports-inspired ‘N-Design’ trim have also been thrown into the blender.
That very specification is tested here and highlights include 20-inch, dual-tone diamond cut alloy wheels, two-tone paint, black roof rails, and a dark gunmetal finish for the lower sills. Combined, these ensure it holds its own against eye-catching alternatives from Peugeot (3008), Toyota (C-HR), and Kia (Sportage) respectively.
On the inside, the sportier theme continues and there are noticeably more premium touches to appreciate compared to more affordable models. These include a leather stitched steering wheel, Alcantara and leather upholstered seats with raised Qashqai lettering, Alcantara trim for the dash, centre console and door cards, and a mix of mood lighting that people of all ages are going to love.
The hefty on-the-road-price (£39,630 before options or £40,365 with ‘Magnetic Blue’ paint selected) is made more amenable by the full-length panoramic glass roof and two, 12.3-inch digital displays. One of these screens is for the driver’s benefit and the other is dedicated to the infotainment system which, in N-Design, boasts a full suite of Google-powered upgrades. That means you can take advantage of everything from Google Maps to Google PlayStore. We love the system’s ease of use and navigation, response times and general crisp appearance.
We also applaud how Nissan’s designers continue to put their faith in actual switches and knobs that make everyday choices both simple and straightforward, from raising or lowering the cabin temperature, turning on the air conditioning, or working the fan speed. It is safer, too!
So, the interior is decently-made, it is easy on the eye and, being a crossover, is also spacious. The driver and front seat passenger are well catered for in terms of leg, head and shoulder room and have lots of storage options to choose from. The second row’s outer seats are better suited to adults, and the middle portion of the bench is more suitable for small children or teenagers. All-round space is good and access is via doors that can open up to 85 degrees.
As for boot space, some rivals are more accommodating – think Volkswagen Tiguan and Kia Sportage – but 503-litres is not to be sniffed at, nor is the power-operated tail-gate option. Folding the rear seats down creates a flat 1,539-litre area, with hooks and tethering points all nice – and useful – features if you have been entrusted by someone to deliver priceless cargo.
What has not changed as part of the Qashqai’s mid-cycle makeover are the mechanics, meaning the engine range has been carried over untouched. A single mild hybrid petrol is available in two power outputs (160hp and 190hp) or there is Nissan’s clever ‘e-Power’ full hybrid where the petrol engine’s purpose is to generate energy for the electric motors that, in turn, drive the wheels. Despite not being full-electric, you still benefit from the instant torque and smooth driving experience EVs are known for.
This is noticeable in urban environments where it can run on electric power for low-speed driving. There is occasional tyre roar at motorway speeds but, other than that, the cabin is well sheltered from outside noise and the automatic transmission adds to the calm and relaxed aura thanks to smooth gear changes. The e-Power set-up also promises superior real-world efficiency – but you do pay for the benefit up front, although not as much compared to what a plug-in hybrid would set you back.
From behind the wheel, the Qashqai is happy to sacrifice enjoyment for comfort. It does not sparkle on a twisty road, yet it does feel stable and predictable thanks to strong brakes and well-weighted steering – the exact virtues buyers of this ever-popular crossover are after.
