With the release of the third generation of crossover Nissan Qashqai in 2021, the compact SUV market has received a serious competitor. The car has radically changed in appearance, moved to the new CMF-C platform and received a number of advanced technologies. Many buyers are wondering whether the updated model lives up to its high expectations and whether it is worth buying in the current environment.
Owners who have driven thousands of kilometers Qashqai 2021, sharing contradictory experiences. On the one hand, the car offers modern design and excellent sound insulation. On the other hand, some technical solutions raise questions. In this article we will collect the most objective reviews, analyze the features of engines and gearboxes, and also highlight the main disadvantages that advertising is silent about.
Interior design and ergonomics
The first thing that catches your eye when meeting someone new Nissan Qashqai, is an aggressive appearance. The model received the signature V-Motion radiator grille, which now looks more voluminous and complex. The body lines have become more expressive, and the ground clearance has increased, which has a positive effect on light off-road performance.
Inside the cabin, the changes are even more noticeable. Instead of the usual plastic panels, soft materials are used that are pleasant to the touch. Ergonomics are built logically: all main control buttons are within the driver’s reach. However, some users note that the multimedia system takes some getting used to due to the touch-sensitive climate controls.
There is more space in the back, especially in height. This is critical for families with children or those who often carry tall passengers. The front seats provide excellent lateral support and have many adjustments. The rear headrests can also be adjusted in height, which increases safety when traveling.
- 🚗 Modern design with aggressive body lines
- 🛋️ High-quality finishing materials in the cabin
- 📱 Intuitive yet complex multimedia
- 📏 Increased space for rear passengers
⚠️ Attention: Pay attention to visibility through the rear window. Due to the wide pillar and the complex shape of the glass, “dead spots” can occur, so you can’t rely on mirrors alone—be sure to use a rear view camera.
Engines and transmission
Under the hood Nissan Qashqai New powertrains are lurking for 2021. The main emphasis is placed on gasoline turbo engines of the series VC-Turbo. These engines are equipped with a variable compression ratio system, which allows you to balance power and efficiency depending on the driving mode.
Most versions are equipped with a CVT Xtronic new generation. The designers tried to eliminate the main drawback of previous models - the “rubber band effect” during overclocking. The transmission now shifts gears (emulation) more clearly and quickly. However, when driving aggressively, the CVT can still heat up faster than a classic automatic.
All-wheel drive available in some markets ALL-MODE 4x4-i, which automatically distributes torque between the axles. It's not an off-road system, but it does a great job on icy, snowy, and washed-out dirt roads. Owners note that in Lock mode the drive operates efficiently up to 80 km/h.
- 🔧 Reliable turbo engines with variable compression ratio
- ⚙️ Improved Xtronic CVT without jerking
- ❄️ Efficient all-wheel drive system for the city
- 🛢️ Low fuel consumption in the combined cycle
- Petrol 1.3 Turbo
- Hybrid e-Power
- Diesel
- I don't know, I'm choosing for now
Comfort and sound insulation
One of the main breakthroughs in the 2021 model was sound insulation. Engineers used additional sound-absorbing materials in the doors, floors and arches. On the highway at a speed of 120 km/h, conversation in the cabin does not require raising your voice, and the hum of the tires is practically inaudible.
The suspension has become more compact and collected. It absorbs small bumps well, but large potholes can feel harsher than in previous generations. This is a price to pay for improved handling at high speeds. Owners note that the car becomes more “sporty” in turns and rolls less.
The air conditioner works quickly and efficiently. In top trim levels, climate control with zone control is available, which allows you to adjust the temperature individually for the driver and passenger. It is also worth noting the presence of an air purification system, which is especially important in megacities.
Fuel consumption and dynamics
Many buyers are interested in real efficiency Nissan Qashqai. Official figures promise about 6-7 liters per 100 km on the combined cycle, but in practice the figures are often higher. In city mode with traffic jams, consumption can reach 9-10 liters, especially when using the start-stop system.
The dynamics of acceleration to 100 km/h for the version with a 1.3 liter engine is about 9.5-10 seconds. This is an average for the class, but for the city it is more than enough. Acceleration is not exciting, but the car confidently picks up speed when overtaking thanks to turbocharging.
Energy recovery system in hybrid versions e-Power allows for significant fuel savings. In this mode, the car is driven by an electric motor, and the gasoline engine works only as a generator. This gives you the feeling of driving an electric car, but without having to look for a charger.
| Modification | Power | Acceleration 0-100 km/h | Flow (mixed) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.3 Turbo (140 hp) | 140 hp | 10.1 sec | 7.2 l |
| 1.3 Turbo (158 hp) | 158 hp | 9.2 sec | 7.4 l |
| e-Power (190 hp) | 190 hp | 7.9 sec | 6.5 l |
⚠️ Attention: Fuel consumption greatly depends on driving style and the quality of the road surface. When driving aggressively with constant sharp acceleration, the actual consumption may exceed the declared one by 20-25%.
Technology and Security
Nissan Qashqai 2021 is crammed with electronics. Adaptive cruise control, lane keeping and automatic braking are often standard equipment. ProPilot Assist helps the driver in traffic jams by automatically maintaining distance and centering the vehicle.
The 360-degree surround camera displays high-quality images on the screen. This greatly simplifies parking in tight yards and on narrow streets. A blind spot monitoring system is also available, which signals approaching vehicles by flashing an indicator in the mirrors.
The multimedia system interface supports wireless connection Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows you to use navigation and music from your phone wirelessly. However, some users complain of slow sensor response when navigating in difficult conditions.
- 🛡️ Full package of ProPilot safety systems
- 📹 High resolution 360 degree camera
- 📱 Wireless integration with smartphones
- 🔍 Blind spot monitoring system
What is the e-Power system?
With the e-Power system, the petrol engine does not spin the wheels. It works solely as a generator, charging the battery that powers the electric motor. This provides the instant torque and smooth ride of an electric vehicle, but without the need to charge the vehicle from a wall outlet.
Reliability and service
The owners note that Nissan Qashqai requires regular maintenance. CVT Xtronic sensitive to oil quality and oil change intervals. It is recommended to change the oil in the variator every 40-50 thousand kilometers, even if the manufacturer claims a “lifetime” period.
Turbocharged engines require the use of high-quality oils and gasoline with a high octane number. Using low-quality fuel can lead to failure of the catalyst or oxygen sensors. This is especially true for regions with poor quality gasoline.
Body steel is well protected from corrosion, but you should carefully inspect the sills and arches after winter. The electronics generally work stably, but sometimes there are malfunctions in the multimedia system, which are solved by a software update.
☑️ Checklist before buying a used Qashqai 2021
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☑️ Checklist before buying a used Qashqai 2021
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