Nissan Qashqai 2nd generation: Full review, pros, cons and reviews

Crossover Nissan Qashqai the second generation, known in the J11 body, has become a real phenomenon in the European and Russian markets. The model replaced the legendary first generation, which actually created the class of compact crossovers, and managed not only to maintain its popularity, but also to significantly expand the audience of brand fans.

When developing this car, engineers focused on increasing comfort, improving sound insulation and introducing modern safety systems. The result is a vehicle that is great for both city driving and off-road adventures, while maintaining an elegant appearance.

J11 body design and ergonomics

Second generation appearance Nissan Qashqai radically different from its predecessor. Designers abandoned angular shapes in favor of smoother lines, which made the car visually lighter and more dynamic. The distinctive V-shaped grille and narrow, elongated headlights give the front end an aggressive and modern look that is easily recognizable in heavy traffic.

The car's profile has become more elongated, and the wheel arches are visually wider, which emphasizes its off-road potential. At the rear, it is worth noting the volumetric lights connected by a chrome trim, as well as a neat bumper with integrated decorative elements. The dimensions of the model allow it to feel confident in parking lots without losing the spaciousness of the interior.

Particular attention was paid to aerodynamics when creating the body. The drag coefficient was reduced, which had a positive effect on fuel consumption and noise levels at high speeds. Aerodynamic efficiency became one of the key factors influencing the efficiency of the model.

🚗 Increased body length by 40 mm compared to the first generation
💎 Availability of optional LED headlights with adaptive lighting function
🎨 Wide range of body colors, including exclusive shades for the Russian market

The interior of the car has become much better and more thoughtful. The finishing materials used on the dashboard and door panels are pleasantly tactile and do not create the feeling of cheapness that is typical of budget segments. The center console is oriented towards the driver, making it easier to control all functions while driving.

Engines and transmission: a choice for any application

Under the hood Nissan Qashqai The second generation hides several powertrain options, adapted to different customer requirements. The line of gasoline engines is dominated by a naturally aspirated 1.2-liter turbocharged engine, which replaced the old 2.0-liter unit. It provides sufficient dynamics with low fuel consumption.

For those who value reliability and simplicity of design, a time-tested 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine is available. This unit is distinguished by its high resource life and unpretentiousness to fuel quality, which makes it an excellent choice for harsh Russian conditions. However, it is worth noting that the dynamics with this engine will be more restrained.

The diesel line is represented by a 1.5-liter turbodiesel, which is the leader in efficiency. Turbodiesel engine allows you to develop high torque at low speeds, which is especially important when overtaking and driving with a full load. The engines are paired with either a 6-speed manual or an Xtronic CVT.

🔧 1.2 DIG-T (115 hp) - optimal balance of power and efficiency
⚙️ 1.6 (115 hp) - reliable aspirated for a quiet ride
🛢️ 1.5 dCi (110 hp) - the best choice for frequent long trips

The latest generation Xtronic CVT has become more responsive and smoother. It simulates gear shifting, eliminating the rubber band effect of older CVTs. During active driving, the transmission quickly responds to pressing the accelerator pedal, providing confident acceleration.

It's important to note that all-wheel drive is only available with certain engines and transmissions. The all-wheel drive system is not permanent, but connects automatically when necessary, distributing torque between the axles. This allows you to save fuel in the urban cycle, when all-wheel drive is not urgently needed.

📊 What type of engine do you prefer?

Petrol 1.2 Turbo
Gasoline 1.6 Aspirated
Diesel 1.5 dCi
I don't know yet

Ride quality and suspension

Comfortable suspension is one of the strengths Nissan Qashqai second generation. The designers have tuned the shock absorbers and springs so that they effectively dampen vibrations from road unevenness, while maintaining sufficient stability in corners. The car doesn’t roll much during extreme cornering, but it doesn’t hit your back on small bumps either.

The steering is responsive and light at low speeds, making parking and maneuvering in traffic jams easier. On the highway, the steering feels a little heavier, providing crisp feedback and stability at high speeds. The electronic power steering is adjusted correctly, without creating a “empty” effect in the center.

Interior noise insulation has been significantly improved compared to its predecessor. Engineers used additional layers of sound-absorbing materials in the door panels, floor and wheel arches. As a result, noise from the road and wind is practically inaudible when driving around the city, and on the highway the noise level remains comfortable for long conversations.

🛣️ Soft suspension setting copes well with potholes and joints
🔇 High level of noise insulation even at speeds above 100 km/h
🎯 Precise steering with adjustable force

In winter, all-wheel drive demonstrates its best qualities, allowing you to confidently start on slippery surfaces. The traction control system works quickly and efficiently to prevent wheel spin. However, it is worth remembering that this is still a crossover, and not a full-fledged SUV, so deep mud or serious off-road conditions are not suitable for it.

⚠️ Attention: When operating a car in winter, it is recommended to use winter tires with a high hardness index, since standard summer tires can quickly wear out on cold asphalt, and all-season tires may not provide the necessary grip on ice.

Safety and driver assistance systems

Passenger safety in Nissan Qashqai the second generation is at a high level. The car body is reinforced in critical areas, and the passive safety system includes front and side airbags, as well as curtains that protect the heads of all passengers. In Euro NCAP crash tests, the model received maximum ratings.

Active safety systems are also widely represented. The basic equipment already includes stability control (VDC), anti-lock braking system (ABS) and hill start assist (HSA). In richer versions, blind spot monitoring, lane keeping and automatic braking systems are available in case of danger.

Particularly noteworthy are the rear view camera and parking sensors, which greatly facilitate the parking process. The multimedia system screen displays a clear image with traffic trajectory markings, which allows you to avoid collisions with obstacles located in the blind spot. Surround View System available in top trim levels.

🛡️ 7 airbags (including driver's knee)
👁️ Blind spot monitoring system with warning function
🚦 Automatic emergency braking when pedestrians are detected

The traffic sign recognition system reads speed limit signs and warns the driver if the speed limit is exceeded. This is especially useful on unfamiliar roads where it is easy to break the rules due to inattention. All systems operate unobtrusively, but, if necessary, intervene in the control process.

What is Intelligent Around View Monitor?

This is a complex of four cameras located around the car, which forms a virtual view from above. Allows you to see invisible areas around the car, which is critical when parking in tight conditions or driving off-road.-->

Service and reliability

Owners Nissan Qashqai second generation drivers generally speak positively about the car’s reliability. Engines and gearboxes show a high service life, subject to timely maintenance. However, there are nuances that are worth paying attention to when buying a used copy.

The Xtronic CVT requires regular oil changes, even if the manufacturer claims it is “maintenance-free.” Ignoring this procedure may result in costly repairs. It is recommended to change the oil filter and the fluid itself every 40-50 thousand kilometers to avoid overheating and wear of components.

The car body has good anti-corrosion protection, but in regions with aggressive reagents on the roads it is necessary to periodically inspect the sills and arches. The doors and hood are galvanized, which reduces the risk of rust. However, paint chips should be repaired promptly to avoid subthreshold corrosion.

☑️ Checklist before purchasing

Check CVT service historyInspect the body for corrosionTest all-wheel drive operationCheck the operation of all electronic systems

Done

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Consumables for Nissan Qashqai are widely available on the market, and the cost of their replacement is not prohibitive. Many suspension parts, such as levers and stabilizer links, have analogues from third-party manufacturers, which allows significant savings on repairs. However, genuine parts provide the best quality and durability.

It is important to remember to regularly replace the air filter and spark plugs, especially on turbocharged engines. This will help maintain engine power and reduce fuel consumption. Incorrect operation of the ignition system can lead to overheating of the catalyst and its failure, which is an expensive repair.

Parameter	Meaning
Engine life (during maintenance)	300,000+ km
Engine oil change interval	10,000 - 15,000 km
CVT oil change interval	40,000 - 50,000 km
Ground clearance (ground clearance)	205 mm
Trunk volume (up to curtain)	430 liters

⚠️ Attention: Do not use low-quality fuel with an octane rating below 95 for turbocharged engines. This can lead to detonation, damage to the piston group and failure of the catalyst.

Comparison with competitors

In the compact crossover market Nissan Qashqai has many rivals, including the Volkswagen Tiguan, Renault Kadjar and Mazda CX-5. Each of these cars has its own advantages and disadvantages. The Qashqai stands out for its design and comfortable suspension, while the Tiguan offers a more spacious cabin and a premium feel.

Compared to the Renault Kadjar, which is built on the same platform, the Qashqai offers higher-quality interior trim and better materials. However, the Kadjar may be cheaper to purchase and maintain. The Mazda CX-5 is superior to the Qashqai in terms of dynamics and handling, but loses in the level of suspension comfort and sound insulation.

If we talk about the cost of ownership, then Nissan Qashqai occupies a middle position. It's cheaper to maintain than German rivals, but more expensive than some Asian equivalents. Spare parts are available, and the service network is wide, which simplifies the search for solutions to any technical problems.

🏆 Design: Qashqai beats most competitors in terms of modern appearance
🛋️ Comfort: The Qashqai's suspension is softer than the Mazda CX-5, but stiffer than the Kia Sportage
💰 Price: Competitive cost while maintaining a high level of equipment

The choice between these models often comes down to personal preference and priorities. If comfort and style are important to you, then the Qashqai is a great choice. If you're looking for sporty performance, the Mazda CX-5 is worth considering. For those looking for maximum practicality and space, the Volkswagen Tiguan is a better choice.

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The choice between competitors depends on priorities: for comfort and style, the Qashqai is better, for dynamics - the Mazda CX-5, and for practicality and space - the Volkswagen Tiguan.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions

Which engine is more reliable: 1.2 turbo or 1.6 naturally aspirated?

The naturally aspirated 1.6 engine is considered more reliable and less demanding on fuel quality, but it is inferior to the turbocharged 1.2 in dynamics and efficiency. The choice depends on your priorities: reliability or performance.

Is it necessary to warm up the variator before driving in winter?

Yes, it is recommended to let the CVT idle for 1-2 minutes before driving in cold weather. This will allow the oil to warm up and circulate through the system, which will extend the life of the transmission.

What is the real fuel consumption of the Nissan Qashqai 1.2?

In the urban cycle, consumption is about 8-9 liters per 100 km, on the highway - 6-7 liters. During the combined cycle, the average consumption is in the range of 7.5-8 liters, which is a good indicator for this class of car.

Can you tow a trailer with a Qashqai?

Yes, the Nissan Qashqai has a towing capacity of up to 1500kg (braked). However, it is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maximum load and use special towbars certified for this model.

⚠️ Attention: When towing a trailer, be sure to check the tire pressure and condition of the brake system, as the load on them increases significantly, which can lead to premature wear.