Nissan Qashqai 2018: detailed review of technical characteristics and operating features

Car Nissan Qashqai the second generation (J11), after restyling at the end of 2017, has become one of the most balanced crossovers on the market. The 2018 model offers the buyer an updated design, improved sound insulation and an expanded list of safety options. This year was a turning point when the manufacturer relied on comfort and technology, while maintaining dynamic characteristics.

When choosing a used car or a new one in 2018, you need to take into account many nuances related to power units and transmission. A variety of engines allows you to choose an option for both city driving and long off-road travel. Specifications This car deserves careful analysis to avoid mistakes during operation.

Power units and internal combustion engines

In the engine range Nissan Qashqai 2018 presents both time-tested naturally aspirated engines and modern turbocharged units. The main emphasis is on efficiency and environmental friendliness, which corresponds to general trends in the global automotive industry. Petrol engines of 1.2 liters, 1.6 liters and 2.0 liters are available for the Russian market.

The most popular choice for urban environments is 1.2-liter turbo engine (HRA2DDT) with 115 horsepower. This unit is characterized by excellent traction from low revs and low fuel consumption. However, it requires high-quality gasoline and regular maintenance of the cooling system. The engine is developed using direct injection and variable valve timing technologies.

For those who need greater dynamics and the ability to tow trailers, this is ideal 2.0-liter naturally aspirated (MR20DD). Its power is 144 horsepower, which ensures confident acceleration on the highway and high reliability. This motor does not have a turbine, which simplifies the design and reduces the risk of costly breakdowns if used incorrectly.

• 🔥 1.2 DIG-T engine: perfect balance of power and fuel economy in the city.
• ⚙️ 2.0 MPI engine: maximum reliability and simplicity of design without a turbocharger.
• 🛡️ 1.6 DIG-T engine: an intermediate version with high dynamics, but less common on sale.

Transmission and drive mechanisms

The choice of gearbox directly affects driving behavior and fuel consumption. The 2018 model is available with both classic manual transmissions and the new generation Xtronic CVTs. Mechanics are offered only in conjunction with base engines and front-wheel drive, which makes the car cheaper to maintain.

CVT CVT Xtronic is the main choice for most trim levels. It ensures smooth running, but requires strict adherence to oil change regulations. The manufacturer recommends changing the working fluid every 60,000 kilometers, although many owners reduce this interval to 40,000 kilometers to extend the life of the unit.

The drive can be either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (4x4). A complete system with a rear axle coupling allows the car to feel confident on snow or muddy roads.

It should be noted that all-wheel drive is controlled automatically, but the driver can lock the clutch in the Lock position to drive through difficult areas at speeds of up to 80 km/h. This solution helps to avoid slipping when starting from a standstill on an uneven surface.

• 🚗 Front-wheel drive: an economical option for asphalt roads and the city.
• 🏔️ 4x4 all-wheel drive: increases cross-country ability and safety in difficult weather conditions.
• 🔄 Xtronic variator: smooth gear shifting without jerks or delays.

Dimensions and body capacity

Body layout Nissan Qashqai The 2018 model remains a classic in the compact crossover segment. The car has a length of 4377 mm, a width of 1806 mm and a height of 1590 mm. These dimensions make it easy to maneuver in dense city traffic and park in small areas.

The wheelbase is 2646 mm, which provides decent legroom for rear passengers. The luggage compartment has a volume of 430 liters in the standard rear seat position. If necessary, the rear row backrests can be folded, increasing the useful volume to 1585 liters, which is enough to transport large cargo.

Ground clearance (clearance) varies depending on the type of drive. For front-wheel drive versions it is 190 mm, and for all-wheel drive versions it is 205 mm. This indicator is enough to overcome snowdrifts, high curbs and broken dirt roads in the village. Ground clearance of 205 mm is a key advantage of all-wheel drive versions over competitors.

Owners often note the high seating position, which provides excellent forward visibility. However, when parking, it is worth considering the width of the rear-view mirrors, since they protrude significantly beyond the dimensions of the body, which can be inconvenient on narrow streets.

• 📏 Body length: 4377 mm - compact dimensions for the city.
• 📦 Trunk volume: 430 liters - enough for family weekend trips.
• 🛣️ Ground clearance: up to 205 mm - confidently overcome uneven road surfaces.

⚠️ Attention: Do not overload the vehicle beyond the permissible weight, as this can lead to accelerated wear of the suspension and an increase in braking distance.

Suspension and steering

Suspension design Nissan Qashqai 2018 combines comfort and handling. The front has an independent MacPherson strut suspension with anti-roll bar. At the rear, a multi-link design is used, which ensures better wheel performance on uneven surfaces compared to a torsion beam.

This combination allows the car to remain stable in corners and comfortably absorb small bumps. The steering is equipped with an electric booster, which makes steering easy at low speeds and more informative when driving on the highway. The steering gear ratio is selected to minimize driver effort.

The shock absorbers are tuned to soften impacts, so the car may feel a little wobbly during spirited driving. However, this is a compromise for the sake of passenger comfort. In Sport mode (if available), the suspension stiffens, improving steering response.

It is important to monitor the condition of the silent blocks of the levers, as they are a weak point when operating on bad roads. Their replacement does not require complex equipment, but must be carried out in a timely manner so as not to damage other suspension elements.

• 🔧 Front suspension: MacPherson struts - a classic and reliable solution.
• 🔗 Rear suspension: multi-link - provides comfort and stability.
• ⚙️ Steering: electric power steering with adjustable force.

Equipment and security systems

The 2018 model received a significant update in terms of active and passive safety systems. The standard kit includes airbags for the driver and front passenger, as well as side airbags and curtains. This provides protection against frontal and side impacts.

In richer trim levels, front and rear parking sensors, a rear view camera and a 360-degree surround view system are available. System Intelligent Around View Monitor allows the driver to see the situation around the car on the multimedia screen, which is critical when parking in cramped conditions.

There is also a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), which warns the driver if one of the tires loses pressure. This helps prevent accidents and extend the life of the tires. Some versions have an emergency braking system and blind spot monitoring.

The Nissan Connect multimedia system supports connecting smartphones via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto protocols. This allows you to use navigation, music and calls directly from the car screen, integrating them into the car interface.

• 🛡️ Safety systems: ABS, ESP, Traction Control - standard for all versions.
• 📷 Video surveillance: rear view camera and all-round viewing system for parking.
• 📱 Multimedia: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support for smartphone integration.

What is included in the Comfort package?

The package usually includes: heated front seats, climate control, rain and light sensors, electric heated mirrors.

Fuel consumption and operational features

Fuel consumption is one of the main criteria when choosing a car. For Nissan Qashqai 2018 with a 1.2 DIG-T engine, the declared consumption in the combined cycle is about 6.5 liters per 100 km. In reality, it depends on driving style and traffic congestion, but rarely exceeds 8-9 liters in the city.

A more powerful 2.0-liter engine consumes more fuel: in the city, consumption can reach 11-12 liters, and in highway mode - about 7.5 liters. All-wheel drive versions have an additional consumption of about 0.5-1 liter due to the weight of the transmission and rolling resistance.

The fuel tank capacity is 55 liters, which provides sufficient range for trips between fill-ups. It is recommended to use AI-95 gasoline for all gasoline engines to avoid detonation and loss of power. Using low quality fuel can damage the catalyst and oxygen sensors.

In winter, it is important to warm up the engine before driving, especially if the Start-Stop system is installed. This will ensure that all components and assemblies are lubricated before loading. It is also worth considering that in the cold season, fuel consumption inevitably increases due to the operation of the stove and more viscous oil.

• ⛽ Gasoline 1.2: economical consumption up to 6.5 l/100 km in the combined cycle.
• 🚀 Gasoline 2.0: increased consumption up to 11 l/100 km in the city, but excellent dynamics.
• ❄️ Winter operation: mandatory warming up and use of winter tires.

⚠️ Attention: If the car is idle for a long time in winter, it is recommended to regularly start the engine or use a pre-heater to maintain battery charge.

Final recommendations for choosing

Choosing Nissan Qashqai 2018, you should focus on your needs. If you live in a large city and are looking for an economical car for daily driving, then the 1.2-liter turbo engine will be an ideal choice. It is dynamic and quite passable for urban conditions.

For those who often drive outside the city or need more traction, it is better to consider the version with a 2.0-liter engine. It is more reliable, easier to maintain and copes better with overloads. The all-wheel drive version will be an excellent gift for a family living in a region with a harsh climate.

Pay attention to the vehicle's service history when purchasing a used vehicle. Regularly changing the oil in the variator and using high-quality consumables is the key to a long car life. Check that there are service books and that there are no signs of serious accidents.

Overall, Nissan Qashqai 2018 is a balanced crossover that combines style, comfort and practicality. Its technical characteristics allow it to compete with segment leaders, while offering more attractive prices on the secondary market.

• ✅ City: choose 1.2 DIG-T with front-wheel drive.
• ✅ Track and family: prefer 2.0 MPI with all-wheel drive.
• ✅ Maintenance: Keep an eye on the variator and use quality oils.

Which engine is more reliable: 1.2 turbo or 2.0 naturally aspirated?

The 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine is considered more reliable and durable due to the absence of a turbine and simpler design. However, the 1.2-liter turbo engine is also reliable, subject to timely maintenance and the use of high-quality fuel.

Is it necessary to warm up the variator in winter?

Yes, the Xtronic CVT requires warming up. Before driving, it is recommended to allow the oil to warm up to operating temperature, especially in severe frosts, to avoid wear of the internal components of the transmission.

What is the ground clearance of the all-wheel drive version?

For all-wheel drive version Nissan Qashqai In 2018, the ground clearance is 205 mm, which allows you to confidently overcome snow drifts and uneven road surfaces.

Can this vehicle tow a trailer?

Yes, the 2018 Nissan Qashqai has a towing capacity of up to 1,500 kg (2.0-liter versions) and up to 1,200 kg (1.2-liter versions), allowing it to haul small trailers or boats.

What is the trunk volume of the 2018 model?

The boot volume is 430 liters in the standard seat position and increases to 1585 liters with the rear seats folded down, which is enough to transport large cargo.