Qashqai 2: what is this model, key differences and features of the second generation

If you are interested in crossovers Nissan or are planning to buy a used car, you have probably come across the mention of Qashqai 2. This wording often causes confusion: are we talking about the second generation of the model or a restyled version? Actually Qashqai J11 (second generation) - this is a fundamentally new car compared to the first J10, released in 2013. It received an updated platform, design in the style Nissan of that time and a number of technical innovations.

In this article we will look at what exactly is hidden behind the term "Qashqai 2", how it differs from its predecessor and subsequent versions, and what to look for when choosing such a crossover. You'll learn about engines, transmissions, common problems, and even how to tell the difference. J11 from the 2017 restyling - everything to make an informed choice.

Qashqai 2 - what generation is this?

Term "Qashqai 2" stands for second generation crossover Nissan Qashqai, known by the internal index J11. It replaced the first generation (J10, 2006–2013) and was produced with 2013 to 2021. Moreover, in 2017 the model experienced restyling, which many mistakenly mistake for the “third generation”. Actually Third generation Qashqai (J12) debuted only in 2021.

To avoid confusion, remember:

• 🔹 Qashqai 1 (J10) — 2006–2013, “first Qashqai”
• 🔹 Qashqai 2 (J11) — 2013–2021, second generation (pre-restyle and restyle 2017)
• 🔹 Qashqai 3 (J12) — from 2021, current generation

The second generation became a real bestseller: in Europe alone it sold more than 2 million copies. The car was built on a modular platform CMF-C/D, which was also used for Nissan X-Trail T32 And Renault Kadjar. This improved handling, reduced weight and increased interior space.

Differences between Qashqai 2 and the first generation

Transition from J10 to J11 was revolutionary. Nissan completely redesigned the design, technical content and even the philosophy of the model. Here are the key changes:

Parameter	Qashqai 1 (J10)	Qashqai 2 (J11)
Platform	Nissan C	CMF-C/D (shared with Renault)
Body length	4 315 mm	4,377 mm (+62 mm)
Wheelbase	2 630 mm	2,646 mm (+16 mm)
Trunk volume	352 l	430 l (+78 l)
Minimum ground clearance	200 mm	190 mm (210 mm for versions with 4WD)

Visually Qashqai J11 received a more aggressive design with V-shaped radiator grille, narrow headlights and dynamic body lines. The interior now features soft plastics, improved sound insulation and a modern multimedia system. NissanConnect (in top versions with navigation and 360° camera). Also worth noting:

• 🔧 New engines: turbocharged 1.2 DIG-T (115 hp) and diesel 1.5 dCi (110–130 hp) instead of outdated engines J10.
• 🔧 Gearboxes: 6-speed manual and CVT Xtronic (instead of the 4-speed automatic transmission of its predecessor).
• 🔧 Suspension: multi-link at the rear instead of a torsion beam, which improves handling.

Why has the clearance decreased?

The reduction in ground clearance to 190 mm (instead of 200 mm for the J10) is due to the transition to a new platform and the desire to improve stability at high speeds. However, versions with all-wheel drive (4WD) retained 210 mm of ground clearance.

Engines and transmissions: what to choose?

One of the key questions when purchasing Qashqai J11 — choice of power unit. The second generation offered 5 engines (3 petrol and 2 diesel), but three of them are most common on the Russian market:

1. 1.2 DIG-T (HR12DDT) - turbocharged petrol engine with power 115 hp and torque 190 Nm. Ideal for the city, but requires high-quality fuel (at least AI-95).
2. 2.0 (MR20DD) - naturally aspirated petrol engine 144 hp And 200 Nm. Reliable, but voracious (consumption ~9–10 l/100 km in the city).
3. 1.6 dCi (R9M) - diesel power 130 hp And 320 Nm. Economical (consumption ~4.5–5 l/100 km), but sensitive to fuel and frost.

The choice for transmissions is simpler:

• 🔄 6-speed manual — reliable and maintainable, but when paired with a diesel engine it can “slow down” when switching.
• 🔄 CVT Xtronic - smooth, but requires regular oil changes (every 60,000 km). Paired with 2.0 the motor is most balanced.

⚠️ Attention: Engine 1.2 DIG-T sensitive to oil - use only approved synthetics API SN or ILSAC GF-5. Skipping an oil change (recommended interval is 10,000 km) can lead to scoring on the cylinder walls.

Restyling 2017: how to tell the difference?

In 2017 Qashqai J11 survived restyling, which affected the exterior, interior and technical part. Externally, the changes affected:

• 🔦 Front bumper — new foglights and chrome inserts appeared.
• 🔦 Radiator grille — became wider and received a three-dimensional pattern.
• 🔦 Tail lights — LED graphics have changed.
• 🔦 Wheels — new designs (for example, 17" "Dynamic" And 19" "Sport").

Inside, the updates are less noticeable, but it’s worth paying attention to:

• 🎛️ Steering wheel — became thinner, with new control buttons.
• 📱 Multimedia - system NissanConnect received support Apple CarPlay And Android Auto (in top versions).
• 🔧 Suspension — Shock absorbers have been redesigned for better comfort.

The main technical innovation of the restyling is the appearance of the engine 1.3 DIG-T (140 and 160 hp) instead 1.2 DIG-T And 1.6 dCi. This motor was developed jointly with Mercedes-Benz and complies with the standard Euro 6d-TEMP.

Typical problems and weaknesses

Despite the reliability Qashqai J11 has a number of “childhood diseases” that you should know about before purchasing. Here are the most common problems:

1. Engines

• 🔥 1.2 DIG-T: oil consumption (up to 1 l/1000 km in difficult conditions), problems with the turbine after 100,000 km.
• 🔥 2.0: crankshaft oil seal leaks (after 80,000–100,000 km), knocking of hydraulic compensators.
• 🔥 1.6 dCi: system problems AdBlue (if installed), clogged valve EGR.

2. Transmission

• ⚙️ CVT Xtronic: jerking during acceleration (solved by flashing), belt wear after 150,000 km.
• ⚙️ Manual transmission: leakage of the input shaft oil seal (on runs over 120,000 km).

3. Suspension and body

• 🚗 Wheel bearings - fail at 80,000–100,000 km.
• 🚗 Shock absorbers — the front struts “leak” after 60,000–70,000 km.
• 🎨 Paintwork — thin, prone to chips (especially on the hood).

⚠️ Attention: If you are considering Qashqai 2 with mileage over 150,000 km, be sure to check the condition of the variator. When test driving, pay attention to the smooth acceleration and absence of vibrations. If the variator “kicks” or makes a hum, this is a reason for diagnosis.

Which Qashqai 2 to choose: pre-restyle or restyle?

The choice between pre-restyle (2013–2017) and restyle (2017–2021) depends on the budget and priorities. Here is a comparison table:

Criterion	Dorestyle (2013–2017)	Restyle (2017–2021)
Cost (used)	1 200 000 – 1 600 000 ₽	1 500 000 – 2 100 000 ₽
Engines	1.2, 1.6 dCi, 2.0	1.3 DIG-T, 1.6 dCi (less common), 2.0
Multimedia	NissanConnect without CarPlay	NissanConnect with CarPlay/Android Auto
Reliability	More “childhood diseases” (variator, 1.2 DIG-T)	Major problems fixed, but more expensive to repair

If your budget is limited, you can consider a dorestyle with a motor 2.0 and a CVT - this is the most balanced option. For those who appreciate modern options (for example, keyless entry or adaptive cruise control), it’s better to take a closer look at the restyling with the engine 1.3 DIG-T.

Prices and configurations on the secondary market

Cost Qashqai J11 in the secondary market depends on the year of manufacture, mileage and configuration. Here are the current prices for 2026 (according to Auto.ru And Avito):

• 💰 2014–2016, mileage 80,000–120,000 km: 1 200 000 – 1 500 000 ₽ (configurations Comfort or Elegance).
• 💰 2017–2019, mileage 50,000–90,000 km: 1 500 000 – 1 900 000 ₽ (restyle, Tekna or N-Connecta).
• 💰 2020–2021, mileage up to 50,000 km: 1 900 000 – 2 300 000 ₽ (top versions with 1.3 DIG-T).

The most popular configurations:

• 🔹 Visia — basic, without air conditioning and multimedia (rare).
• 🔹 Acenta — climate control, cruise control, LED DRLs.
• 🔹 N-Connecta — 360° camera, navigation, leather steering wheel.
• 🔹 Tekna — full power accessories, adaptive cruise, premium audio system Bose.

When purchasing, pay attention to service history — it is better to choose cars with dealer maintenance. Also check:

• 🔧 Availability warranty for variator (if the mileage is up to 150,000 km).
• 🔧 Condition brake discs (on Qashqai they are often "wavy").
• 🔧 Job start-stop systems (may turn off due to weak battery).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Qashqai 2

❓ Which engine does the Qashqai 2 have the most reliable?

Considered the most reliable atmospheric 2.0 (MR20DD). It is easier to maintain, less sensitive to fuel and has a long service life (up to 300,000 km with proper care). Turbocharged 1.2 DIG-T more economical, but requires more frequent oil changes and high-quality gasoline. Diesel 1.6 dCi good for long trips, but can be difficult to start in winter.

❓ Is it possible to install gas on Qashqai 2?

Install HBO on Qashqai J11 not recommended for engines 1.2 DIG-T And 1.3 DIG-T due to the high compression ratio and turbocharging. To atmospheric 2.0 gas can be installed, but only from official installers with settings for Euro 5. Important: engine warranty when installing LPG burns out.

❓ What is the fuel consumption of the Qashqai 2?

Consumption depends on the engine and driving conditions:

• 🔋 1.2 DIG-T: city — 7.5–8.5 l/100 km, highway — 5.0–5.5 l/100 km.
• 🔋 2.0: city — 9.5–11 l/100 km, highway — 6.5–7.0 l/100 km.
• 🔋 1.6 dCi: city — 5.0–6.0 l/100 km, highway — 4.0–4.5 l/100 km.

Actual consumption may be 10–15% higher in winter or during aggressive driving.

❓ What oil to pour into the Qashqai 2 engine?

Oil recommendations:

• 🛢️ 1.2 DIG-T And 1.3 DIG-T: 5W-30 or 0W-30 (tolerances API SN, ILSAC GF-5).
• 🛢️ 2.0: 5W-40 (tolerance API SL/SM).
• 🛢️ 1.6 dCi: 5W-30 (tolerance ACEA C4 for systems with particulate filter).

Replacement interval - every 10,000 km (or once a year). For the variator, use only original fluid Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3.

❓Which Qashqai is better: second or third generation?

Third generation (J12, from 2021) more technologically advanced: it has a hybrid power plant 1.3 DIG-T + electric motor, digital instrument panel and advanced driver assistance systems. However Qashqai J11 wins on the following parameters:

• 💰 Price: second generation is 30–50% cheaper.
• 🔧 Maintainability: more spare parts, easier to maintain.
• 🚗 Reliability: J12 has not yet stood the test of time.

If you need a proven and inexpensive crossover, take it J11. If modern technology and a hybrid are important, look away J12.