Choosing a crossover Nissan Qashqai 2021 model year (second generation, restyled version J11), potential buyers are often faced with the question: will the car fit their needs in terms of dimensions? Comfort in the cabin, maneuverability in the city, and the ability to park in tight yards depend on the size. In this article we will look at all key parameters — from body length to trunk volume, we will compare it with the main competitors and give practical advice on choosing a configuration.
The 2021 model retains the signature design Qashqai, but received updated optics, bumpers and an expanded range of engines. At the same time, the dimensions remained almost identical to the pre-restyling version, which is important for those who plan to use the car in limited space. We will pay special attention actual trunk volume with seats folded down — this parameter often becomes decisive when choosing a family crossover.
Main external dimensions of Nissan Qashqai 2021
Crossover Nissan Qashqai J11 2021 refers to compact SUV class, but thanks to the well-thought-out ergonomics of the interior, it is not inferior in space to many larger models. Below are the official manufacturer data, relevant for all trim levels, including Visia, Acenta, N-Connecta And Tekna.
The length of the car is 4394 mm - this is 49 mm more than the first generation (J10), but less than that of its main competitor Toyota RAV4 (4600 mm). This length provides good maneuverability in urban environments, while at the same time allowing for a spacious interior. Width Qashqai excluding mirrors - 1806 mm, and taking into account - 2070 mm, which is important to consider when driving through a narrow gate or parking in a garage.
- 📏 Body length: 4394 mm
- 📐 Width (without mirrors): 1806 mm
- 🔄 Width (with mirrors): 2070 mm
- 📊 Height: 1595–1625 mm (depending on the configuration and type of suspension)
- 🚗 Wheelbase: 2646 mm
- 🛣️ Ground clearance (ground clearance): 190 mm (for versions with all-wheel drive)
Vehicle height varies depending on the installed suspension and equipment. Basic versions with 17-inch wheels have a height 1595 mm, while top modifications with 19-inch wheels and air suspension can reach 1625 mm. Clearance in 190 mm ensures confident overcoming of city bumps, but you should not count on serious off-road conditions - Qashqai it is still positioned as an urban crossover.
⚠️ Attention: When installing non-standard wheels with a larger diameter (for example, 20 inches), the ground clearance may decrease to 170–180 mm, which will affect cross-country ability and comfort on bad roads.
Comparison of Qashqai 2021 dimensions with competitors
To objectively assess the size Nissan Qashqai, let's compare them with the main rivals in the class: Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage And Volkswagen Tiguan. All models are presented in current generations for 2021.
| Model | Length, mm | Width, mm | Height, mm | Wheelbase, mm | Ground clearance, mm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Qashqai J11 (2021) | 4394 | 1806 | 1595–1625 | 2646 | 190 |
| Toyota RAV4 XA50 (2021) | 4600 | 1855 | 1685–1700 | 2690 | 195 |
| Hyundai Tucson TL (2021) | 4500 | 1850 | 1650–1670 | 2680 | 172–195 |
| Kia Sportage SL (2021) | 4480 | 1855 | 1635–1660 | 2670 | 170–190 |
| Volkswagen Tiguan AD (2021) | 4486 | 1839 | 1632–1655 | 2681 | 149–200 |
From the table it is clear that Qashqai — one of the most compact crossovers in its class. It is inferior in length and wheelbase RAV4 And Tucson, but wins in maneuverability. Clearance in 190 mm is the gold standard for urban environments, while Tiguan this figure can vary from 149 to 200 mm depending on the configuration.
If parking in tight yards or narrow garages is critical for you, Qashqai will be the best choice. However, for long trips with a fully loaded trunk, it is worth considering models with a longer wheelbase, for example, Hyundai Tucson or Toyota RAV4, where the legroom for rear passengers is 30–50 mm more.
- Dimensions (length/width)
- Clearance and passability
- Trunk volume
- Rear passenger comfort
- Design and appearance
Trunk dimensions: actual volume and practical nuances
Official trunk volume Nissan Qashqai 2021 amounts to 430 liters (according to VDA standard). However, this indicator may vary depending on the configuration and position of the shelf. For example, in versions with all-wheel drive (4WD) volume is reduced to 410 liters due to the presence of additional technical components.
With the rear seats folded (60:40 ratio), the volume increases to 1585 liters. This allows you to transport large loads, such as a bicycle or large household appliances. However, there is a nuance: With the seats fully folded, the load compartment length is 1780 mm and the floor-to-ceiling height is 950 mm, which limits the transportation of tall objects (for example, refrigerators).
- 📦 Trunk volume (standard): 410–430 l
- 🪑 Volume with seats folded: 1585 l
- 📏 Cargo Length (max): 1780 mm
- 📐 Width between wheel arches: 1020 mm
- 🚪 Loading height: 750 mm (from ground to edge of trunk)
For comparison: Toyota RAV4 trunk volume 580 l, and Hyundai Tucson — 550 l. Thus, Qashqai loses to competitors in this parameter, but wins in ergonomics: the trunk has a flat floor without thresholds, and the rear door opens to a large angle (up to 80°), which makes loading easier.
⚠️ Attention: Available with panoramic roof (Panoramic Roof) the height of the trunk is reduced by 30–40 mm due to the changed shape of the ceiling. This may create difficulties when transporting tall objects.
Measure the dimensions of your garage or parking space|
Check loading height (750mm) - is it suitable for your needs?|
Estimate the width between the wheel arches (1020 mm) for transporting wide loads|
Check the availability of the trunk shelf and its height adjustment-->
Wheelbase and interior: space for passengers
Wheelbase Qashqai 2021 amounts to 2646 mm - this is 79 mm more than the first generation (J10), which had a positive effect on the space for rear passengers. However, compared to competitors, this figure remains modest: for example, Volkswagen Tiguan the base is 35 mm longer (2681 mm), and Toyota RAV4 - by as much as 44 mm (2690 mm).
Inside Qashqai comfortably accommodates four adult passengers. The front seats have good lateral support and adjustment (including lumbar support in top versions). The rear seats are designed for passengers up to 180 cm tall; if you are taller, there may not be enough legroom. Interior width at shoulder level of rear passengers - 1420 mm, which is enough for three people, but on a long trip the middle passenger will feel cramped.
- 👤 Legroom (front/rear): 1050 mm / 890 mm
- 🪑 Ceiling height (front/rear): 1000 mm / 950 mm
- 🚗 Interior width (front/rear): 1450 mm / 1420 mm
- 👫 Interior volume (according to VDA standard): 2850 l
For families with children, it is important to note that Qashqai Easily installs two child seats ISOFIX on the back row. Distance between fasteners ISOFIX amounts to 280 mm, which meets safety standards. However, there won’t be enough space for a third child—you’ll have to use a booster seat in the middle seat, which is less safe.
How to measure rear legroom?
To objectively assess the comfort of the rear row, sit in the back seat and check:
1. Distance from the knee to the back of the front seat (must be at least 10–15 cm).
2. The ability to freely place your foot on the floor (without resting on the front seat).
3. Backrest angle - in Qashqai it is fixed (23°), which may be uncomfortable for tall passengers.
The influence of dimensions on handling and parking
Compact dimensions Nissan Qashqai 2021 make it one of the most convenient crossovers for city use. The turning radius is 5.6 m (from curb to curb), which is 0.3–0.5 m less than Toyota RAV4 or Hyundai Tucson. This allows you to turn around in three steps, even on narrow streets.
When parking, it is important to consider front and rear bumper offset:
- Front overhang length: 850 mm (from the front wheel axle to the edge of the bumper).
- Rear overhang length: 950 mm (from the rear wheel axle to the edge of the bumper).
These parameters help assess the risk of hitting curbs or poles when maneuvering. For example, when entering a garage with a high threshold, an overhang of 950 mm can become a problem - you will have to use parking sensors or a rear view camera (available in trim levels). N-Connecta And Tekna).
- 🔄 Turning radius: 5.6 m
- 🚗 Approach/departure angle: 18° / 25°
- 📏 Minimum ground clearance: 190 mm (for 4WD versions)
- 🅿️ Recommended parking space width: 2.3 m
For comparison: Kia Sportage the turning radius is 5.8 m, and Volkswagen Tiguan - 5.9 m. This does Qashqai leader in maneuverability in its class. However, it is worth remembering that models with 19-inch wheels have a slightly larger turning radius (by 0.1–0.2 m) due to the increased track.
When parking on slopes, always use the handbrake - automatic transmissions (CVT) Qashqai do not block the wheels 100%, which can lead to the car rolling away.
How do dimensions affect fuel consumption and dynamics?
The dimensions of a car are directly related to its weight and aerodynamics, which affects fuel consumption and acceleration dynamics. Nissan Qashqai 2021 in the basic configuration it weighs 1350 kg (for version with engine 1.3 DIG-T), and in all-wheel drive version - up to 1500 kg. For comparison: Toyota RAV4 weighs 1580–1660 kg, which is 10–15% more.
Due to its relatively light weight and compact dimensions, Qashqai demonstrates good dynamics:
- Acceleration to 100 km/h: 10.5 s (for version 1.3 DIG-T 140 hp).
- Maximum speed: 190 km/h.
- Fuel consumption in the combined cycle: 6.2–6.8 l/100 km (depending on the type of drive and gearbox).
Aerodynamic coefficient (Cx) y Qashqai J11 amounts to 0,32, which is average for crossovers. For comparison: Volkswagen Tiguan Cx = 0,31, and Toyota RAV4 — 0,33. Thus, Qashqai It’s not a leader in aerodynamics, but it’s not inferior to its competitors either.
⚠️ Attention: When installing side step bumpers or a roof rack, aerodynamic drag increases by 5–10%, which can increase fuel consumption by 0.3–0.5 l/100 km.
Compact dimensions and light weight make Qashqai 2021 one of the most economical crossovers in the class, but don’t expect sporty dynamics - priority is given to comfort and handling.
Practical advice on choosing equipment, taking into account dimensions
When choosing Nissan Qashqai 2021 It's important to consider how the vehicle's dimensions relate to your needs. Here are some recommendations:
- For urban use: Optimal versions are with 17-inch wheels and front-wheel drive. They have lower ground clearance (190 mm versus 200 mm for all-wheel drive versions), but handle better in heavy traffic. The turning radius is minimal, and fuel consumption is 0.3–0.5 l/100 km lower.
- For families with children: It is worth considering the configuration N-Connecta or Tekna with a panoramic roof and rear seats with backrest tilt adjustment. Despite the trunk being reduced by 30 mm, passenger comfort will increase.
- For long trips: All-wheel drive versions (4WD) with engine 1.7
dCi(150 hp) will provide better stability on the highway and off-road capability, but will require more parking space due to the increased track. - For transportation of goods: If the trunk volume of 430 liters seems insufficient, pay attention to the possibility of installing a roof rack (maximum load - 75 kg). However, remember that this will increase fuel consumption.
It is also worth considering that in versions with Bose Personal Plus Sound insulation is improved, but this adds weight (about 20 kg), which has a slight effect on the dynamics. If load capacity is critical to you, check the maximum towable trailer weight:
- For versions with engine 1.3 DIG-T: 1200 kg (with brakes).
- For versions with engine 1.7 dCi: 1500 kg (with brakes).
To ensure the stated ground clearance (190mm), take a tape measure and measure the distance from the bottom of the engine guard to the ground. Please note that when fully loaded, the ground clearance decreases by 20–30 mm due to suspension sagging.-->
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Will the 2021 Nissan Qashqai fit in a 2.2m wide garage?
Width Qashqai taking into account the mirrors, it is 2070 mm, so for comfortable placement you will need a garage at least 2.3–2.4 m wide. In a 2.2 m garage you will have to fold the mirrors or park very carefully, risking touching the walls.
Is it possible to transport a 1.7 m high refrigerator in the trunk of a Qashqai?
No, the maximum load compartment height with the seats folded down is 950mm. To transport a refrigerator, you will need a roof rack or rent a truck.
What is the ground clearance of a Qashqai with 19-inch wheels?
When installing wheels R19 ground clearance is reduced to 170–180 mm (versus 190 mm in the basic configuration). This can cause problems on rough roads.
How much does the 2021 Nissan Qashqai weigh in all-wheel drive version?
Weight of all-wheel drive versions (4WD) varies from 1450 to 1500 kg depending on the engine and configuration. This is 100–150 kg more than front-wheel drive versions.
Is it possible to install a third child seat in the rear seat?
Technically yes, but it's not safe. The width of the middle seat is only 400 mm, and the fastenings ISOFIX located only on the sides. For the third child, it is recommended to use a booster.