Nissan Qashqai 1st generation (J10, 2007-2013): photos, features and secrets of choice

First generation Nissan Qashqai (code designation J10) became a real breakthrough in the compact crossover market. Having debuted in 2006 at the Paris Motor Show, the model began mass sales in 2007 and immediately gained popularity thanks to its unique combination of urban practicality and off-road design. This car, developed on the platform Nissan C (joint with Renault-Nissan Alliance), became the founder of a new class of “urban crossover” - cars that feel equally comfortable in city traffic jams and on light off-road conditions.

In this article we have collected exclusive photos Nissan Qashqai J10 from different angles and configurations, and also analyzed in detail its technical features, strengths and weaknesses. You will learn which engines are considered the most reliable, what to look for when buying a used one, and how to distinguish a restyled version from a pre-reform one. The material will be useful to both potential buyers and current owners who want to better understand their car.

Exterior of Nissan Qashqai J10: photos and design features

Design of the first Qashqai developed under the guidance Ueda Tarot - chief designer Nissan Design Europe in London. The car received an aggressive front bumper with large air intakes, a raised hood and characteristic “edges” above the headlights, which later became the signature style of all generations of the model. The body is made in the format of a five-door hatchback with increased ground clearance (185 mm), which gives the car a confident look.

Particular attention is drawn to:

• 🔹 V-shaped radiator grille with chrome trim (in top trim levels), which visually expands the front part;
• 🔹 Side moldings with plastic linings that protect the body from chips;
• 🔹 Tail lights unusual shape, extending onto the wings - this solution was later adopted by many competitors;
• 🔹 Wheel arches with pronounced protrusions emphasizing the off-road character.

In 2010, the model survived restyling, which affected mainly the front part: new headlights with LED running lights appeared (in versions Tekna), the shape of the bumper has been changed, and the radiator grille has become more massive. The taillights also received an updated design. The easiest way to distinguish the Restyle from the pre-reform version is by the shape of the fog lights - on the updated car they are round, not oval.

Photos of the interior: ergonomics and finishing materials

Salon Qashqai J10 designed taking into account European comfort standards. Despite the compact external dimensions (length 4.31 m), the internal space is organized extremely rationally. The front fascia has an asymmetrical design with the center console angled toward the driver, a design that was later copied by many automakers. Finishing materials depend on the configuration:

• 🚗 Visia/Visia+: fabric upholstery, plastic without edging, minimalist finish;
• 🚗 Acenta: fabric with improved texture, chrome inserts on the gear knob and air ducts;
• 🚗 Tekna: leather steering wheel, seats with combined trim (leather + Alcantara), decorative wood or aluminum inserts.

Please note non-standard solutions in the interior:

• 🔧 Armrest with drawer (optional), which can be adjusted in length;
• 🔧 Double trunk floor with a hidden compartment for storing small items;
• 🔧 Glove compartment lighting (in versions Tekna), which automatically turns on when opened;
• 🔧 Engine start button without a key (optional for top trim levels).

Among the shortcomings, owners often note hard plastic on the bottom of the doors and center console, as well as the inconvenient location of the trunk release button (in some versions it is located on the floor near the driver's seat). But the ergonomics of the seats and visibility are excellent - the A-pillar does not block the view, and the rear-view mirrors provide a good viewing angle.

Secret compartment in the trunk of Qashqai J10

Under the double trunk floor (in versions with a spare wheel) there is a hidden compartment ~10 cm deep. It can be used to store documents or valuables. To gain access, you need to lift the mat and unclip the plastic clips around the perimeter.

Technical characteristics: engines, transmissions, suspension

Nissan Qashqai J10 was offered with a wide range of engines - from economical gasoline to powerful diesel units. All of them were combined with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (All-Mode 4x4-i) and two types of transmissions: 6-speed manual or CVT Jatco (designation RE0F10A). The latter has often been the subject of controversy due to reliability, but with proper maintenance it lasts a long time.

Engine	Type	Volume, l	Power, hp	Torque, Nm	Consumption (mixed), l/100 km
HR16DE	Gasoline	1.6	114	156	7.2
MR20DE	Gasoline	2.0	140	200	8.1
M9R	Diesel	2.0	150	320	5.8
K9K (Renault)	Diesel	1.5	106	240	5.2

Transmission Features:

• 🔄 CVT Jatco requires oil changes every 60,000 km (the official limit is 90,000 km, but this is risky);
• 🔄 Manual transmission (FS6R31A) is considered “indestructible”, but can make noise at high speeds;
• 🔄 All wheel drive All-Mode 4x4-i connects automatically when slipping, but has a manual locking mode (relevant for off-road use).

Suspension Qashqai J10 built according to the classical scheme: in front - MacPherson struts, behind - multi-lever. This provides good controllability, but there are also weaknesses:

⚠️ Attention: The bushings of the front arms and stabilizer struts wear out by 80,000–100,000 km. Replacing them is inexpensive (~5,000 rubles per set), but ignoring the problem leads to backlash and knocking.

Photos of the interior in different trim levels: from Visia to Tekna

Externally Qashqai J10 as standard Visia and top Tekna differ greatly - this applies to both finishing materials and equipment. Below are photos of key interior elements in different versions, as well as a comparison table of options:

Option	Visia	Acenta	Tekna
Climate control	❌	✅ (automatic)	✅ (dual zone)
Leather steering wheel	❌	❌	✅
Heated front seats	❌	✅	✅ (with 3 modes)
Rear view camera	❌	❌	✅ (with dynamic markup)
Bose audio system	❌	❌	✅ (6 speakers)

Included Tekna were also installed bi-xenon headlights with washers, power leather seats (driver only) and parking assistance system with sensors front and rear. Interestingly, some European versions offered panoramic sunroof - a rare option for this generation.

An important nuance: in 2012, Nissan began installing an updated multimedia system with Bluetooth and USB support, but in older cars (before 2010) these options are extremely rare. If a modern connection with a smartphone is important to you, pay attention to the year of manufacture and the availability of appropriate connectors.

Weaknesses and typical problems of the Nissan Qashqai J10

Despite the reliability, the first Qashqai There are a number of “childhood diseases” that every potential buyer should know about. Most problems are related to electronics And CVT, but there are also mechanical weaknesses.

Top 5 typical faults:

• ⚡ Throttle Position Sensor Failure (symptoms: floating speed, jerking during acceleration);
• ⚡ Oil leak from under the valve cover (especially relevant for the engine MR20DE);
• ⚡ Wheel bearing wear (manifests itself as a hum at speeds of 60–80 km/h);
• ⚡ Problems with the variator electronics (errors P0776 or P0841);
• ⚡ Corrosion of sills and rear arches (especially in cars operated in snowy regions).

Deserves special attention diesel engine M9R. It is known for its reliability, but is sensitive to fuel quality. When refueling with bad diesel, the following suffer:

• 🛢️ Fuel injectors (replacement costs ~30,000 rubles per piece);
• 🛢️ Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) (clogs during short trips around the city);
• 🛢️ Turbine (resource ~150,000 km, but breaks earlier during aggressive driving).

⚠️ Attention: If when buying a used one Qashqai J10 with a variator, the seller says that “the oil was changed according to regulations,” ask for documentary evidence. CVT Jatco RE0F10A extremely sensitive to oil change intervals - with a mileage of over 100,000 km without maintenance, repairs will cost 150,000–200,000 rubles.

Photos of rare and limited versions of Qashqai J10

In addition to standard equipment, Nissan Qashqai J10 was produced in several special series, which today are considered rare. They can be identified by unique elements of the exterior and interior:

Special versions:

• 🏆 Qashqai 360 (2009) - limited edition with panoramic sunroof, leather interior and 18-inch wheels "V-spoke";
• 🏆 Qashqai N-Tec (2011) - sports version with a black grille, red stitching on the seats and an improved audio system;
• 🏆 Qashqai Black Edition (2012) - all-black exterior (including mirrors and moldings) and tinted headlights.

The rarest version is considered Qashqai+2 — modification extended by 211 mm with a third row of seats. These cars were officially supplied to Russia in limited quantities (only a few hundred copies) and are today prized by collectors. From standard Qashqai it is distinguished by:

• 🚗 Increased wheelbase (2,765 mm versus 2,630 mm);
• 🚗 Additional side windows in the rear of the body;
• 🚗 Reshaped rear doors to make it easier to enter the third row.

If you come across a copy Qashqai+2 with a mileage of up to 100,000 km, this is a reason to carefully check the history - such cars were often used as family cars and could be subject to overloads.

Tips for choosing a used Nissan Qashqai J10

Upon purchase Nissan Qashqai J10 In the aftermarket, there are a few key things to consider to help you avoid costly problems. Firstly, pay attention to the year of manufacture: cars from 2007–2009 often suffer from “childhood diseases” (for example, oil leaks from under the valve cover), while the restyled versions (2010–2013) are more mature.

Checklist before purchasing:

If you are choosing between a petrol and diesel option, consider the following nuances:

• ⛽ Gasoline HR16DE And MR20DE easier to maintain, but have higher fuel consumption (especially MR20DE in the city - up to 12 l/100 km);
• ⛽ Diesel M9R more economical (5–6 l/100 km), but requires high-quality fuel and regular cleaning of the particulate filter.

Pay special attention CVT. If during a test drive you feel:

• 🔴 Jerks during acceleration;
• 🔴 Delayed reaction to pressing the gas pedal;
• 🔴 Extraneous noise (hum or grinding),

- this is a reason to refuse the purchase or significantly reduce the price. The cost of a variator overhaul Jatco RE0F10A is 120,000–180,000 rubles, which is comparable to the cost of the car itself.

⚠️ Attention: In 2011–2012, the plant in Sunderland (UK) had a batch of cars with defective fuel pumps. If the car was produced during this period and has an engine MR20DE, check with the seller whether a recall repair has been carried out (campaign R1104).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Qashqai 1st generation

How to distinguish the restyled Qashqai J10 from the pre-reform one?

Main external differences:

• 🔹 Shape of fog lights (round for the restyle, oval for the pre-reform version);
• 🔹 Front bumper design (more massive after 2010);
• 🔹 LED running lights in top trim levels (only in restyling).

Inside, changes are minimal, but cars after 2010 may have an updated multimedia system with Bluetooth support.

Which Qashqai J10 engine is the most reliable?

According to statistics from service centers, the most problem-free engine is gasoline HR16DE (1.6 l). It is easier to maintain, less sensitive to fuel quality and has a service life of 300,000+ km with regular oil changes. Diesel M9R more powerful, but more expensive to repair.

Can you tow a trailer with a Qashqai J10?

Yes, but with restrictions:

• 🔹 Maximum trailer weight without brakes - 750 kg;
• 🔹 With brakes - up to 1,500 kg (for versions with engine MR20DE or M9R);
• 🔹 Be sure to check availability electrical connector for trailer — it is not provided in the basic configurations.

When towing heavy trailers, avoid overheating the CVT - use the L (low gear) on inclines.

What kind of oil should I put in the Qashqai J10 variator?

The manufacturer recommends the original liquid Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2 (catalog number KE909-99932). Analogues:

• 🔹 Mobil CVT Fluid;
• 🔹 Motul Multi CVT;
• 🔹 Ravenol CVT Fluid.

Filling volume - 7.8 l (with full replacement). You need to change the oil every 60,000 km, even if the mileage is short!

Where is the body number on the Qashqai J10?

The body number (VIN) is duplicated in several places:

• 🔹 On the sign under the hood (on the left, on the front panel);
• 🔹 On the front pillar of the driver's door;
• 🔹 In the trunk under the spare wheel (on some versions).

The VIN is also displayed in registration certificate And vehicle passport.