The era of crossovers began precisely with the car that we are looking at today in its updated version. Nissan Qashqai the first generation after restyling in 2010, became a real phenomenon on the market, correcting many of the childhood illnesses of the original model. It is this period that is often called the “gold standard” for fans of the brand, as the design became more aggressive and technical solutions more mature.
Many buyers today are looking for the restyled version, as it offers the best balance between cost of ownership and comfort. Unlike pre-restyling copies, the updated Nissan Qashqai received redesigned optics, a new radiator grille and, most importantly, improved interior sound insulation. This makes long-distance travel significantly less tiring for the driver and passengers.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the nuances that a potential owner needs to know. We will touch on engine selection, transmission features, common breakdowns and maintenance details. If you are planning a purchase, it is important for you to understand what technical characteristics you should pay close attention to when inspecting a car on the secondary market.
External changes and design of the updated crossover
Visual changes made by engineers during restyling were aimed at giving the car a more modern and dynamic look. The front end receives a new radiator grille with a chrome surround, which is now integrated into the front bumper, creating a single visual unit. The headlights became more elongated and complex in shape, which gave the car a more predatory look.
The rear of the body has also undergone significant changes. LED inserts in the headlights have become brighter and more visible at night. The bumper received new diffusers that visually expand the rear of the crossover. On the side you can see modified rims, the design of which has become more sporty and complex, which goes well with the overall style of the model.
The color palette of the body has been expanded, and new shades have appeared that emphasize the lines of the body. It is important to note that the quality of painting on restyled models has become higher, and the anti-corrosion protection has become more reliable. However, when buying a used car, you should carefully inspect the sills and arches for signs of rust, as this is the weak point of many Japanese cars of that period.
- ✨ New radiator grille design with chrome elements
- ✨ Redesigned optics with improved light beam
- ✨ Expanded body colors and improved painting
Interior and ergonomics: comfort in the foreground
Inside the cabin, changes affected not only finishing materials, but also ergonomics. The instrument panel has a new backlight and more contrasting numbers, making it easier to read information while driving. The center console has been slightly rethought, and the infotainment system buttons are more tactilely responsive and easier to press on the go.
The seats have been updated, making them more ergonomic and comfortable for long trips. Side and lumbar support has become noticeably better, which reduces driver fatigue. The quality of the upholstery materials has also increased: the plastic has become softer to the touch, and the seams on the fabric seats are made more carefully and efficiently.
Interior noise insulation has been significantly improved thanks to the use of additional vibration-proofing materials. Now extraneous noise from the road and wind practically does not penetrate into the cabin at speeds up to 100 km/h. This is a critical point in a family car where it is important to ensure peace and quiet for passengers.
The climate control system began to work more accurately, maintaining the set temperature without sudden changes. The air conditioning cools the interior faster, and the heated seats and windshield have become more effective in winter. Please pay attention to the functionality of all ventilation modes before purchasing.
- 🛋️ Improved seats with better lateral support
- 🔊 Significantly increased interior sound insulation
- ⚙️ More convenient and responsive multimedia system
Technical characteristics and engines
Under the hood Nissan Qashqai restyling offers time-tested gasoline and diesel units. Gasoline engines of 1.6 liters and 2.0 liters remain reliable and unpretentious, but require high-quality fuel and regular maintenance. Diesel engines 1.5 dCi and 2.0 dCi attract with their high torque and efficiency, but they are more demanding on the quality of diesel fuel.
1.6-liter petrol engine HR16DE produces 115 horsepower, which is quite enough for quiet city driving and highway travel. This engine is characterized by its simplicity of design and the absence of complex gas recirculation systems, which makes it repairable and cheap to maintain. Fuel consumption in the combined cycle is about 7.5 liters per 100 kilometers.
More powerful 2.0-liter unit MR20DE develops 141 horsepower, providing confident acceleration and dynamic overtaking on the highway. This engine is often combined with a CVT, which provides a smooth ride, but requires special attention to the condition of the transmission. The 1.5 dCi diesel from Renault is one of the most economical in the class, consuming only 5 liters of fuel in the combined cycle.
Gasoline engines withstand short trips better, while diesel engines require warming up and regular long-distance trips to regenerate the particulate filter. The choice of unit depends on your preferences and vehicle operating conditions.
⚠️ Attention: Turbocharged diesel engines require the use of only high-quality, low-sulfur fuel. Using poor diesel fuel can lead to failure of the fuel system and turbocharger, which will lead to expensive repairs.
- ⛽ Reliable 1.6 and 2.0 liter petrol engines
- 🌿 Economical diesel units 1.5 and 2.0 dCi
- 🔧 Simple motor design for easy repairs
- Gasoline 1.6
- Gasoline 2.0
- Diesel 1.5 dCi
- Diesel 2.0 dCi
Transmission and chassis
The transmission is one of the key elements that determines how a car is driven. Restyled Nissan Qashqai Available with a manual transmission or CVT. The mechanics are reliable and simple, but the CVT provides a smoother and more comfortable ride, which is especially noticeable in traffic jams.
CVT X-Tronic requires regular oil and filter changes, which is often ignored by owners. This can lead to overheating and failure of the unit. Do not forget to check the level and condition of the transmission fluid every 40-50 thousand kilometers. It is also worth paying attention to the operation of the starter and generator, as they directly affect the operation of the variator electronics.
The crossover's chassis has been modified to improve handling and comfort. The suspension has become softer and more energy-intensive, making it easy to overcome road unevenness. The front stabilizer strut and the silent blocks of the levers are consumables that require replacement every 60-80 thousand kilometers, depending on operating conditions.
The steering is equipped with electric power assist, which provides ease of maneuvering at low speeds and precise control at high speeds. The rear multi-link suspension provides excellent cornering stability and ride comfort on rough roads. Regularly checking wheel alignment will help extend the life of the tires and chassis.
- 🚗 Smooth and comfortable CVT
- 🔩 Reliable manual transmission
- 🛣️ Improved suspension for better comfort
☑️ Checking the chassis
Features of the X-Tronic variator
The variator does not like extreme loads and sudden starts. If it overheats, it goes into emergency mode, limiting the speed and power of the engine. Regular oil changes are the key to long transmission life.
Operational Features and Maintenance
Regular maintenance is the key to long car service. For Nissan Qashqai restyling, it is recommended to undergo maintenance every 15 thousand kilometers or once a year. Changing engine oil, filters and spark plugs must be carried out strictly according to regulations. Ignoring this rule may result in reduced power and increased fuel consumption.
Particular attention should be paid to the cooling system. The radiator, pump and thermostat need to be checked for leaks and wear. Overheating the engine can lead to critical damage such as a burned-out cylinder head gasket or warped metal. Always check the antifreeze level before long trips.
The vehicle's electrical system also requires attention. The battery must be checked for charge and terminal condition. The generator and starter must operate without any extraneous noise. Electrical faults can lead to the failure of important systems such as ABS or airbags.
The car body should be washed regularly and inspected for scratches and chips. Timely removal of corrosion and painting of damaged areas will help preserve the appearance of the car and its value. Use quality detergents and protective waxes to preserve your paintwork.
⚠️ Attention: When changing the oil in the variator, you must use only original NS-2 or NS-3 fluid. The use of analogues can lead to premature wear of the clutches and transmission failure.
| Scheduled maintenance | Mileage (km) | Main works | Approximate cost (RUB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| TO-1 | 15 000 | Oil change, filters, diagnostics | 8 000 - 12 000 |
| TO-2 | 30 000 | Replacing spark plugs, checking brakes | 15 000 - 20 000 |
| TO-3 | 45 000 | Changing the gearbox oil, checking the suspension | 20 000 - 25 000 |
| TO-4 | 60 000 | Replacing timing belt, fluids | 30 000 - 40 000 |
When changing engine oil, use a genuine Nissan oil filter. Cheap analogues may not provide adequate filtration and lead to clogging of the lubrication channels.
Common problems and malfunctions
Despite its reliability, some vehicle components may require attention. Most often, owners encounter problems in the cooling system, where the thermostat may become stuck in the closed position. This leads to overheating of the engine and requires immediate replacement of the part. It is also worth monitoring the condition of the pump, which may begin to leak.
A common problem with a variator is the failure of the valve body or solenoids. Symptoms appear as jerks when changing gears or delays at start. To prevent serious damage, it is recommended to regularly change the oil and filter in the transmission. Ignoring these signs may lead to the need for a major overhaul of the variator.
Car electrics can also be a hassle. Sometimes ABS sensors or airbag controllers fail. Diagnostics and replacement of these elements do not take much time, but require professional equipment. It is also worth checking the operation of the power windows and central locking, as their mechanisms wear out over time.
Body parts such as rear view mirrors and door handles may be subject to corrosion or mechanical damage. When purchasing a used car, be sure to check these items for defects. Replacing mirrors or handles may require repainting or selecting original spare parts.
- 🔧 Frequent problems with the thermostat and pump
- 📉 Jerks in the variator when solenoids wear out
- 💡 Failures of ABS sensors and electronic systems
Regular maintenance and timely replacement of consumables is the best way to avoid costly repairs and extend the life of your car.
Conclusion and recommendations for choosing
Choosing Nissan Qashqai first restyling, you get a balanced car that combines comfort, reliability and efficiency. This crossover is great for family trips, city trips and even light off-roading. The correct choice of specimen and timely maintenance will guarantee you years of worry-free operation.
Pay attention to the condition of the engine and transmission, as well as the vehicle's service history. Avoid cars that show signs of major repairs or accidents. Conduct a thorough diagnosis before purchasing to ensure that all systems and components are in working order. This will help you avoid unexpected expenses in the future.
If you are looking for a car that will delight you with reliability and comfort, then Nissan Qashqai restyling is an excellent choice. It offers everything you need for everyday life and travel without requiring excessive maintenance costs. With the right approach, this car will become your faithful companion for many years.
Don't forget the importance of regular maintenance and using quality parts. This is the key to long and trouble-free operation of your crossover. Make the right choice and your Nissan Qashqai will bring you only positive emotions and comfortable trips.
⚠️ Attention: When choosing a used car, always check the service history and the availability of all necessary documents. This will help avoid legal problems and ensure that the car is in good condition.
Which engine is better to choose for Nissan Qashqai restyling?
For quiet city driving, the 1.6 liter petrol is perfect. If you need dynamics and often drive on the highway, it is better to choose a 2.0 liter. For those who travel a lot and want to save on fuel, the 1.5 dCi diesel is an ideal option, but it requires high-quality fuel.
How reliable is the CVT on this car?
The X-Tronic variator is reliable provided that the oil is changed regularly every 40-50 thousand kilometers. If you maintain it correctly, it will last a long time. However, under extreme loads or neglect of maintenance, it may fail prematurely.
What are the main body problems to check for?
Particular attention should be paid to the sills, arches and bottom for corrosion. Also check the operation of the power windows, central locking and the condition of the rear view mirrors. These elements are often subject to wear and tear and require attention.
Is it possible to use non-original spare parts?
The use of non-original spare parts is possible, but only from trusted manufacturers. For critical components such as the engine and transmission, it is better to use original parts or quality replacements to avoid problems.