Restyling Nissan Qashqai J11 2017 was a logical continuation of the evolution of one of the most popular crossovers in Europe. The second generation of the model, which debuted in 2013, by the middle of the decade began to lose relevance against the background of updated competitors. The manufacturer did not radically change the concept, but made more than 100 adjustments - from design to technical content. This restyling is often called the “most balanced” in the history of the model: it retained proven solutions, while adding modern technologies and improving ergonomics.
Updated for the Russian market Qashqai J11 became especially relevant: the car was assembled at a plant in St. Petersburg, which reduced its cost and simplified service. However, not all changes were unambiguously positive - some decisions aroused criticism from the owners. In this article we will look at what has changed in the restyled version, compare it with the pre-restyled version and answer the question: is it worth buying today? Nissan Qashqai J11 after 2017 update.
Exterior design: evolution instead of revolution
Updated Qashqai J11 received a new front part, which visually brought the model closer to the flagship X-Trail. The main change is V-motion radiator grille, which has become Nissan's signature style. It received a chrome edging and a more aggressive design, and the brand logo moved higher. The headlights have already become and received LED optics in top configurations (in pre-Restyle, LEDs were available only as an option).
The side part of the body remained virtually unchanged - the manufacturer retained the recognizable silhouette with a sloping roof and expressive wheel arches. But new ones appeared behind L-shaped lights with a 3D effect, and the bumper received integrated reflectors and slightly reshaped exhaust pipes. The designers also reworked the color palette: added shades "Energy Orange" And "Vivid Blue", while removing some of the dull colors of the pre-restyle.
- 🔹 New radiator grille V-motion with chrome elements
- 🔹 LED optics in basic configurations (previously - only halogen)
- 🔹 Redesigned taillights with 3D effect and LEDs
- 🔹 New body colors: Energy Orange, Vivid Blue, Gun Metallic
- 🔹 Updated 17- and 19-inch wheels (previously there were only 16" and 18")
- Looked better
- Remained unchanged
- Appearance has deteriorated
- Too similar to X-Trail
Interesting fact: despite the visual changes, the drag coefficient (Cx) remained at the pre-restyle level - 0,32. This is due to the fact that the main changes affected the front, while the side mirrors and body shape remained the same. The owners note that the new design looks more modern, but some elements (for example, chrome inserts) quickly lose their presentable appearance in Russian conditions.
Interior: ergonomics vs. cheap materials
Inside Qashqai J11 after restyling, the changes turned out to be more significant than on the outside. The main innovation is 7" multimedia touch screen (in pre-restyle there was a 5-inch one), which received support Apple CarPlay And Android Auto. The steering wheel has new control buttons, and the dashboard has updated graphics. However, the quality of plastic in basic versions has drawn criticism: many owners complain about squeaks and materials that are hard to the touch.
Ergonomics have improved due to:
- 🪑 Redesigned front seats with better lateral support
- 📱 Wireless charging for smartphones (in top trim levels)
- 🔄 New ventilation deflectors with smoother adjustment
- 🎵 Improved noise insulation (10% quieter at 100 km/h)
However, there are also controversial points. For example, climate control in the restyled version it received touch buttons instead of physical controls, which many found less convenient. The manufacturer also reduced the volume of the glove compartment to make room for the system. NissanConnect. Rear passengers received a little more legroom (+20 mm), but the ceiling remained low - height above 180 cm will create discomfort.
What's hidden under the plastic panels?
In the restyled version, Nissan used thinner plastic on the door panels and center console. This made it possible to reduce the weight of the car by 12 kg, but led to an increase in noise when driving over uneven surfaces. Owners note that after 2-3 years of operation, squeaks appear in the front panel area.
| Parameter | Dorestyle (2013-2017) | Restyling (2017-2021) |
|---|---|---|
| Media display | 5 inches, without CarPlay | 7 inches, with CarPlay/Android Auto |
| Seat material | Fabric/leather (optional) | Enhanced Alcantara fabric in top |
| Climate control | Physical buttons | Touch buttons + digital display |
| Noise insulation | Standard | Improved by 10% (additional layers in arches) |
| Glove compartment volume | 12 liters | 9 liters (due to NissanConnect system) |
Technical changes: engines, suspension, gearboxes
The most significant technical updates affected the engine line. Basic 1.2-liter turbo engine (115 hp) received new ECU firmware, which improved responsiveness at low speeds. However, the main surprise is the return 2.0-liter naturally aspirated (144 hp) instead 1.6 dCi diesel, which was discontinued due to stricter environmental regulations. The new engine turned out to be more reliable, but less economical: consumption increased from 5.5 to 7.2 l/100 km in the combined cycle.
Transmissions have also undergone changes:
- 🔧 6-speed manual transmission received updated synchronizers
- 🔄 CVT Xtronic received a new switching algorithm (less “rubbery”)
- 🚗 All-wheel drive All-Mode 4x4-i became available only with a 2.0-liter engine
The suspension remains the same (MacPherson front and multi-lever rear), but engineers reworked the settings of the shock absorbers and springs. This made the car softer over small bumps, but some owners note increased sway at high speeds. The steering is a bit sharper thanks to a new electric variable-assist power steering unit.
When purchasing a Qashqai J11 restyling with a CVT, be sure to check the CVT oil change history. The manufacturer recommends updating the fluid every 60,000 km, but in Russian conditions it is better to reduce the interval to 40,000 km.
⚠️ Attention: In restyled versions with a motor 1.2 TCe There is often a problem with the turbine (error code P0299). The reason is insufficient lubrication of the bearings during frequent short trips. It is recommended to warm up the engine for at least 2 minutes before driving.
Security systems: a step forward or marketing?
The manufacturer announced a significant improvement in security systems in the restyled version. The car received:
- 🚨 Collision avoidance system (AEB) in top trim levels
- 👁️ Blind Spot Monitoring (BLIS) with indication on mirrors
- 🚧 Traffic sign recognition (TSR) with display output
- 🅿️ Surround camera (360°) instead of rear parking sensors
However, independent tests Euro NCAP showed that the actual efficiency of these systems is lower than declared. For example, AEB only works at speeds up to 50 km/h, and the 360-degree camera loses clarity in low light. However, the car received 5 stars in crash tests thanks to a reinforced body structure and 6 airbags.
An interesting solution is the system Intelligent Ride Control, which automatically brakes the wheels when passing speed bumps. This reduces body sway, but some drivers note that the system responds too harshly on rough roads.
☑️ What to check when buying a used Qashqai J11 facelift
Comparison with pre-restyle: which is better?
The main advantage of restyling is modern technologies: Touchscreen multimedia, smartphone support, advanced driver assistance systems. However, dorestyle wins in reliability: it has a simpler climate control design, and fewer electronics that can fail. Also, owners of the old version note a better assembly of the interior.
In terms of dynamics, the difference is minimal: both options have a motor 1.2 TCe accelerate to 100 km/h in 10.9 seconds. But the restyled version has become quieter and more comfortable thanks to improved sound insulation. As for fuel consumption, the pre-restyle takes the lead here: it has 0.3-0.5 l/100 km less due to its lighter design (25 kg lighter).
| Criterion | Dorestyle (2013-2017) | Restyling (2017-2021) | Which is better? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electronics reliability | Easier, fewer problems | More sensors, possible glitches | Dorestyle |
| Comfort | Hard suspension, noisy | Smoother, 10% quieter | Restyling |
| Technologies | Outdated media | CarPlay, 360° camera, AEB | Restyling |
| Cost of ownership | Cheaper parts | More expensive electronics | Dorestyle |
The restyled Qashqai J11 is worth choosing for those who value modern technology and comfort. For those who are looking for reliability and ease of maintenance, dorestayl will be the best option.
Typical problems and weaknesses
Despite the improvements, the restyled version inherited some of the “diseases” of the pre-restyle and acquired new ones. The most common complaints from owners:
- 🔥 CVT overheating when towing or driving in traffic jams (especially important for versions with a 2.0-liter engine)
- 🎵 Plastic creaks in the cabin after 30,000 km (most often the front panel and door cards suffer)
- 🔋 Battery discharge due to increased energy consumption of comfort systems (especially in cold weather)
- 🖥️ Multimedia glitches (screen freezes, problems with CarPlay connection)
The specific problem of restyling is trunk lid corrosion at the location where the windshield wiper is mounted. This is due to the redesigned tailgate, where water collects in the drainage channels. Owners also note rapid wear of the front brake discs (they have to be replaced every 40,000 km instead of the stated 60,000).
⚠️ Attention: In cars produced in 2017-2018, there is often a wiring defect under the driver’s seat, which leads to spontaneous deployment of the airbag. Nissan issued a recall campaign, but not all cars were repaired.
Problems with Xtronic CVT remained relevant: with a mileage exceeding 100,000 km, many owners experience jerks during acceleration. The problem can only be solved by changing the oil and updating the ECU firmware (cost is about 25,000 rubles for service).
Owner reviews: real operating experience
Analysis of reviews on forums (Drive2, Qashqai Club) shows that opinions on the restyling are divided. Positive points noted by the owners:
- ✅ Improved noise insulation (especially noticeable on the highway)
- ✅ More modern interior with good ergonomics
- ✅ Good handling in the city
- ✅ Reliable 2.0-liter engine (with proper maintenance)
Negative reviews are more often associated with:
- ❌ Expensiveness of spare parts (for example, an original bumper costs 45,000 rubles)
- ❌ Problems with electronics (especially in cars of the first batches of 2017)
- ❌ Poor corrosion resistance (sills and arches rust after 3-4 years)
- ❌ Inconvenient location of climate control buttons
It’s interesting that pre-restyling owners often praise their car for its simplicity, while restyling owners value comfort, despite the problems. Average model score per Auto.ru — 4.2 out of 5, which is 0.3 points higher than the pre-restayl.
When buying a used Qashqai J11 restyling, pay attention to cars produced in 2019-2020. It was in these batches that Nissan eliminated most of the “childhood diseases” of the first restyled versions.
FAQ: answers to popular questions
Which engine is better to choose: 1.2 turbo or 2.0 naturally aspirated?
1.2 TCe more economical (consumption 5.8-6.5 l/100 km) and more dynamic on the highway, but requires high-quality fuel (not lower than AI-95) and is afraid of short trips. 2.0 more reliable, cheaper to maintain, but more thirsty (7.0-8.5 l/100 km) and weaker when overtaking. For the city, 1.2 is better, for long trips - 2.0.
Is it worth taking the Qashqai J11 facelift with a CVT?
Yes, but only if you are ready to strictly adhere to the maintenance schedule: oil change every 40,000 km (original NS-3), avoiding towing and sudden starts. With proper operation, the variator runs 150,000+ km. The alternative is a manual, but it is only available with a 1.2-liter engine.
Which restyling configurations are the most reliable?
Optimal choice - SE+ or LE. They already have the basic options (360° camera, climate control, leather upholstery), but there are no redundant electronics that break. Top Tekna beautiful, but expensive to repair (for example, replacing the climate touch panel costs 30,000 rubles).
What is the real fuel consumption of the restyling?
According to the owners:
- 1.2 TCe: city - 7.5-8.5 l, highway - 5.0-5.5 l, mixed - 6.2-6.8 l
- 2.0: city - 9.5-11 l, highway - 6.5-7.0 l, mixed - 7.8-8.5 l
The CVT adds ~0.5 l/100 km to consumption compared to a manual transmission.
Which is better: restyled Qashqai J11 or Kia Sportage 4?
Comparison:
- Qashqai wins in handling, sound insulation and interior design
- Sportage more reliable (simpler electronics), cheaper to maintain and has a longer warranty (7 years vs 3 for Nissan)
- In terms of comfort they are approximately equal, but Kia more practical (larger trunk - 503 l vs 430 l for Nissan)
The choice depends on priorities: if prestige and dynamics are important - Nissan, if reliability and cost of ownership - Kia.