Nissan Qashqai road tests and consumer car reviews

Nissan Qashqai Tekna 2.0 2007

I have owned and driven my Tekna since May 2007 and have been happily motoring during that time. However, having read some of the comments on this page I find that I have also experienced what would now appear to be common faults. I have just reaplced the rear shocks for the second time (the first was after 6 months and fell in the warranty period). I have also had an accident in my 4wd crossover during the snow of Feb 2010, which although going very slowly and in four wheel drive mode the car completely locked up and threw me across the road into a very deep cambered kerb. This resulted in considerable damge to the nearside front wheel and axle. At the time I was really shocked as I couldn’t have been doing more that 10 miles per hour and so blamed it on the weather conditions at the time. Perhaps this is also a perculiarity of the car? However, all in all I have thoroughly enjoyed my kumquat (a derogatory nickname provided by Jeremy Clarkson and adopted by me as a term of endearment) and would have definitely considered buying another if only the price had not been astronomically hiked due to the Qashqais popularity.

Nissan Qashqai 1.5 Dci Tekna 2010

Mine is a mobility vehicle. When I picked it up from the dealers, it was fine for a while but had to get the sat nav/cd player changed as the sat nav told me I was moving whilst I was parked and the cd kept ’stuttering’. There was a ’noise’ from the dash to the right of the steering wheel which is something to do with the fuel pump and even though this was ’sorted’ it still makes a slight noise. The dealers ’Chorley Nissan’ in Wigan were very good and even replaced the sat nav console at great expense to themselves. Overall, the drive is perfect, road handling very good, comfort excellent and the torque of the 1.5 very impressive. The heated seats in winter are a godsend, reversing camera excellent. I’ve done some miles in mine and really have no complaints. It’s sad to hear other people experiencing terrible inconveniences with their vehicles and dealers. I’m not intending to ’promote’ my dealer but I have found their service and aftercare wonderful. I would recommend a Qashqai Tekna 1.5 Dci to anyone. There are plenty of alternative vehicles on the market but I’m more than happy to choose another Qashqai when I have to replace mine.

Nissan Qashqai 2011

I bought my 2012 Qashqai just one month ago but unluckly had an accident 3 days ago. I was on an irregular road and the vehicle tipped after losing control on dry dirt. My 4x2 was completely destroyed after 4 spins over a cain yard. Me and 2 other companions are gratefully fine. Any bruises we have were caused by trying to escape the tipped-over vehicle. Although I am not sure what really caused the vehicle to lose control the tyres lost all traction, which might have been the reason for the accident. Nevertheless the three of us are still alive after this incident, which is truly because we all had our seat belts on, which by the way did not stick or bruise us. Quite an adrenaline rush and thanking god for keeping us in this world!

Responses to this review

Same thing happened to me. Going round a left hand bend when I lost control, sent to other side and hit oncoming car. The ABS did not work and I do not know what happened to cause me to lose control - Rav Ima from Ireland

Nissan Qashqai 2009 Qashqai+2 Visia 1.6L

I have owned my Qashqai+2 for over 2 years now so feel qualified in giving an accurate assessment of the car. I bought the car new in 2009 during the scrappage scheme for £14k, an excellent price for such a well equipped car. I did my homework on which engine would best suit my needs and the 1.6L petrol was the clear winner. It has the same bhp and torque as my old 1.8L Peugeot 406, but with much better mpg. The +2 is quite a big car and the 1.6L engine is fine around town and fully loaded on motorway journeys, only showing its lack of power on very steep hills. The most difficult decision I had was whether to buy the Accenta model, but I couldn’t justify the extra £1800. The Visia came with excellent standard equipment including panoramic roof and roof rails. The Visia’s 16" wheels means the alloys are well above the height of most kerbs and new tyres cost £50/tyre less than 17" tyres. The +2 is great to drive and I feel the car is more refined than the standard Qashqai. The car looks great, but it is let down by the quality of materials used in the cabin. The seat cloth is a very thin polyester and appeared worn after only a few weeks of use. Any contact with the plastic trim will unfortunately scar it for life; I haven’t seen plastic this bad in any car before. The car has been very reliable, but had the rear shock absorbers were replaced after only 18 months, a common failure with all Qashqais. The alloy wheels have also been replaced, they started corroding after only 7 months! The after sales service from AC Nissan, Linwood, has been excellent, the best I’ve experienced. Servicing and faults were all carried out while I waited; all 4 alloys were replaced and the car valeted in under 2 hrs. The Qashqai would have scored 5 stars had it not been for the quality issues. The car is well put together, but some blunders have been made on choices of materials. Popularity has meant that Nissan has raised the price of the car quite a bit. To buy the same car today would cost £18k and it doesn’t have the panoramic roof, roof rails or ultrasonic alarm. I would recommend the Qashqai and would certainly consider buying another future model.

Responses to this review

We have owned the QQ+2 Tekna 1.6L since 5 September 2011. It’s a nice comfortable car and my wife really likes the comfort and size. But there is a big down side. The Qashqai+2 really struggles (without) load to accelerate. Even on moderate hills, the 1.6L petrol engine can hardly propel the car forward. And on the flat, any idea of overtaking seems non-viable. I really wish we had bought the 2.0L version. I want to get rid of the car already. Not sure why Nissan sells such an underpowered car :-( Also, we only seem to be getting 30mpg (not as much as we had expected). My expensive mistake - Derrick Khan from England

Nissan Qashqai 2010

The Qashqai is absolutely a good car because of the jacked-up suspension. Great car.

Nissan Qashqai Tekna 2008

I bought my 2 litre diesel in February and do approx 850 miles per week, so wanted something reliable (unlike my last car). This fit the bill and so far no complaints. It’s very nice and despite what was said is very economical doing 600 miles from a full tank of diesel. I would recommend the car to others.

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 Petrol Vista 2007

I bought my Qashqai last year second hand with only 12,000 miles. This is a superb car and had never let me down. I have done some upgrades since with heated leather seats and chrome sidebars and a satnav unit with TV and DVD. Although it’s a small engine, it pulls well and unless you’re after a fast SUV then this is simply an amazing car. The only reason I’ve not given it five stars is that nothing is perfect!

Nissan Qashqai Acenta 2008

Bought summer 2009 when 1 year old. It has been a great car until now. A good drive, but not very fuel efficient. The car has been in our local Nissan garage for 1 week and yesterday we were told we are facing a £3600 bill for replacement of clutch, slave cylinder and fly wheel!!!!!!!!! The car has only done 40,000 miles. None of this covered by our Nissan Warranty, which has 1 month left to run, due to wear and tear!

Responses to this review

They are robbers, the turbo has gone on my 18 month old Qashqai after 50,000 miles - white smoke coming out of exhaust. The car eventually got picked up by the dealers who came up with an excuse about the warranty so I got fed up, pulled the car from dealers and got a friend to do the work. Turbo cost £1,700, it also filled the catalyst with oil, that cost £570 for new unit. Is there a common fault with the turbos which are Renault units? - Chris Phillips from Lancashire

I also have the same problem! I bought a Nissan Qashqai 1.5 turbo diesel engine in October 2007. I have already replaced the turbo twice. First, in December 2009 after approximately 27,000 miles, and now after approximately 54,000 miles. I’m very disappointed with Nissan because I thought their cars were very reliable but I’ve found out that is not true. I don’t know what to do with the car because every two years I have to replace the turbo! - Helena Mouriño from Portugal

Nissan Qashqai 2011

Love the Qashqai.

Nissan Qashqai Qashqai 1.5 dCi Tekna 2009

High mileage user, fuel consumption very good always on motorway. Normally about 53mpg sometimes 60mpg if I stick to 60mph. I have done 50000 miles in 1.5 years, guess what? The turbo charger has blown! Just a warning to everyone. Also, the car starts to crawl and it covers the road with thick white smoke. Apart from that no other problems.

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 visia 2009

I bought a Sept 2009 visia 5 weeks ago. So far quite good although the petrol consumption could be better. Only averaging 35 mpg but thats a lot of in town driving rather than the motorway. I also have gone from an Audi A3 which had far more power and lift. The Visia isn’t the quickest on the motorway but it’s good for around town. The initerior is good quality with the usual electric windows and door mirrors, cd player, mp3 connection, air con etc. So it is good for the basic car. The Audi didn’t have any of that as basic, you had to pay extra. The view from the car is great - extra large door mirrors and a higher driving position makes driving it better, as visibility is better than a standard car. It also is easier for older people and tall people, like myself, to get in and out of. I would definitely buy one again but a bigger engine size and maybe a diesel. I had been looking for a jeep but this is the next best thing, with less costs attached. Overall a very good car, not quite a 5 star but not far off.

Nissan Qashqai N-tec 1.6 2010

I have had a Qashqai as a company car the last 8 months and have been very pleased with the car. A 1.6 engine is just big enough for normal driving but it has to be worked hard to get any performance which results in a 35 average MPG. Soft comfortable suspension which leans a lot through corners and lack of speed means it’s not fun to drive. Being a petrol head, I’m getting something fast and sporty soon but the qashqai is a great family car.

Nissan Qashqai 60 2011

The Nissan Qashqai is a brilliant car to have. Because of the jacked-up suspension, it gives you fantastic driving visibility.

Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dci Tekna 2007

I bought a 2007 model 1.5 dci Tekna in September last year from a Nissan/Renault dealership and it is the worst motoring mistake I’ve ever made. It had 50,000 miles on the clock and in November, the steering wheel started vibrating really badly from side to side when driving on the dual carriageway and the whole front of the car judders. In turn this has affected the steering and braking quite badly. I took it back to the dealership a few weeks ago and they charged me £400 for new brakes and guess what- the problem is worse than ever! I have to go back at the weekend for them to come out driving with me for them to see the problems for themselves! I can’t stand the car, it is incredibly slow, sluggish and these problems have put me right off Nissans and the dealership. Wouldn’t buy a Nissan again :(

Responses to this review

Why buy a 1.5 dci if your want speed and agility? Surely you road tested before buying:( Sorry to here about juddering but speed and sluggishness? C’mon, a 1.5 wasn’t designed for that! Matt Whiteley from Northumberland

I too am suffering these symptoms, my car is a 57 plate Qashqai Acenta 1.6. It has only covered 18,600 miles from new and will soon be on it’s third set of brake disks and pads (the last carried out under warranty). I have the same worrying vibration and side to side movement of the car under braking. Very unsettling at motorway/dual carriageway speed. Unfortunately, Nissan have shrugged it off to wear and tear, yeah right. Personally, think there is a problem that needs looking into - Fiona Kennedy from Perthshire

Well the problems only got worse, I had to take the car to another Nissan dealership as Hylton did not want to know. Turns out the brakes were staying on ALL THE TIME which accounted for the juddering and slow speed. I had to have a lot of work done to remedy this and thankfully after some battling and many phone calls to Nissan complaints, they paid for all the work. The second Nissan dealership said I should never have been sold the car in that state! I have just done 70,000 in my QQ, and I now need a new alternator and cam belt even though the dealership I bought it from said it had a chain not a cam belt. Still stand by the decision that it was the worst mistake I ever made buying this car! - Rebekah from Gloucestershire

We have a 2009 1.5 dCI Qashqai here in Germany and its marvellous both on and off autobahnen etc. It’s very reliable over 45,000km on the clock and we love it! Fuel consumption over the distance? About an average of 5.3 Liters per 1,000 km which is around 50+mpg which cannot be bad for a smart car of this size! Thank you Sunderland! - Stui Bedford from Germany

Nissan Qashqai Tekna 2008

My Tekna was 2 weeks old when it had a fuel leak TWICE. Nissan’s response was call the RAC!!!! It`s on its 3rd set of shockers. The boot/tailgate is rattling now so it’s going back again. The door sensor sometimes doesn’t work. Its had the recall for the steering nut. The bluetooth works when it feels like it. The selling salesman lied about the servicing costs. The After sales care is 5th rate. The attitude is poor. I have several customers with Quashqai’s who all have complaints about their car. I don’t feel that the car was NEW. I have never felt so dissappointed with any car I`ve had more than this one! Tip for anyone out there DON’T BUY ONE!!!!!!!!!!!!! What a let down. THIS CAR IS STILL ONLY 2 & HALF YEAR`s OLD & 18,000 ON THE CLOCK.

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 ACENTA 2007

I basically like the car, finding it lovely to drive, useful equipment & very comfortable. However it needed the front discs & pads replacing when 2 years old (10k miles) & now needs them replacing again after another year and 4k miles ! although dealer / Nissan has agreed to replace them FOC as a "goodwill gesture". It doesn’t inspire confidence.

Nissan Qashqai 2007

Don’t buy one! Renault / Nissan combined! A recipe for total disaster.

Nissan Qashqai acenta dci 2010

Great car so far only had the car two weeks and we are happy with the drive, I hope Nisson have sorted out their problems.

Nissan Qashqai 2007

I got a second-hand Qashqai (UK) with 28k on the clock and up until now it has driven superbly. The only minor problem is that I’m hearing a squeak when I fully turn the steering wheel apparently it’s coming from the inside, somthing like plastic to plastic? Any help?

Responses to this review

I was having the same problem with my Qashqai. When I was doing a 3 point turn in slow speed, the steering wheel would squeak. Best way to describe it was like a dog crying. One garage said that it was the engine mounts which had worn. THis was fixed but the problem was still there. They replaced the brake discs and pads, and hey presto - problem solved. I didn’t think that the brakes would affect the steering wheel, but it did. Otherwise great car - Anthony Stavrinides from England

Hi Joseph, I am very interested in buying a Nissan Qashqai. How did you find your car for Malta trafiic? Is it comfortable? I am a bit confused about whether to buy a diesel 1.5 or petrol 1.6. Any suggestions? Thanks - Gordon Caruana from Malta

Nissan Qashqai 1.5 d 2007

Three sets of shock absorbers, turbo charger, fuel leak, boot lock, the list goes on and on. The dealers are rubbish and Nissan are no better their aftersale service is second rate. I have had this car for two years and have spent most of that time back and forward to the dealers for repairs. I love the car but can not live with the poor quality and after sales service. I Will never recommend a Nissan to anyone, and I am looking to part ex and it has only done 30,000 miles.

Nissan Qashqai 1.5 DCi

Bought the car and for 6 months loved it: 52mpg, nice to drive if you are not into speed, comfortable ride and nice high seating position. After 6 months a litany of faults began, 3 new pairs of shock absorbers fitted, 3 diesel fuel leaks from the engine, recalled for steering alteration, 2 door catches replaced and still only done 21,000miles. I have traded it in for a new car before the warranty runs out in November 2010, not a NISSAN.

Nissan Qashqai 2.0 petrol automatic 2007

Reaching the end of the lease, quite sad it has to go back, has been the best 3 years driving I can remember, certainly the most problem free years. Reading other peoples comments I am glad I got the petrol engine as the main complaints seem to relate to the reliability of the Renault diesel. All I can add is that I haven’t had even a moments concern (only 14,000 miles on the clock but lots of that in killer short journeys). Biggest complaint - mpg around 25, yuk. We are a family of 5 and have found it great for everyday and for packing everybody off on holiday. The seatbelts to start to cut into the plastic as mentioned elsewhere but after 3 years I haven’t seen any seatbelt fraying, just a bit of damage to the plastic on the car body. The automatic makes driving the most simple and easy task, you really do wonder why you used to be so keen on constantly changing gears (I live in a town with roundabouts every few hundred yards). You can "change gears" yourself but it’s selected points on the range rather than actual gears so really ok for a bit of fun but why bother when the automatic mode delivers such a smooth ride (and never ever a roll back). Next car, probably another Nissan, probably a Juke, just hope I can figure which are pure Nissan and capture that reliability, it looks to improve mpg over the Qashqai as well which would be about the only thing on my wish list these past few years.

Nissan Qashqai N Tec 2009

Cannot say enough about Qashqai, totally reliable, comfortable ride, brilliant driving position, well designed and thought out. A definite recommendation. The 1600 petrol version is fine for normal urban driving.

Nissan Qashqai 2008

I’ve got a problem with the seat belt cutting into the plastic pillar cover fraying the seat belt, future mot failure, Nissan reluctant to fix the problem,  plus shockies, how long should you have to wait ’til these are fixed? We’ve now waited six weeks!

Responses to this review

I had the same problem with the seatbelts cutting into plastic, and Nissan told me it was my fault for not having the seatbelt high enough. I pointed out that it cut into my neck if it was higher and their response was "tough". I’ve been through three sets of shockers and two sets of brake discs and pads, shockingly bad after sales service. I have just traded mine in for a Mitsubishi and the dealer has noted another problem with the suspension that Nissan never noted/fixed under warranty - worn suspension trailing arm bushes. I’m so glad it’s gone! I would never buy another Nissan! - Faye from Yorkshire

Nissan Qashqai acenta 2008

What a perfect car all ’round. I can’t fault it.

Nissan Qashqai Acenta 2.0 CVT 2010

Only had the car a month but we have been very pleased with it. It is comfortable and the CVT makes driving so much easier than a manual. The handling is fine and the seating is very comfortable. I only hope that the faults I have been reading about have been ironed out...

Responses to this review

Adam, I’ve been a member of the Qashqai owners club UK for some time now, and can say that most engine issues involve the Renault sourced diesels. The 1.6 and 2 litre petrols are Nissan units and have proven to be reliable with few problems reported. My 1.6 had a new aux belt fitted as it started to squeal slightly on start-up and pulling away. This was carried out at the first service and is a known issue with the 1.6 engine, a better quality belt is fitted solving the problem. My shocks are the latest revised ones for the previous model Qashqai ( 2007-2010 ) and are totally fine, an early recall was arranged for a steering cover screw replacement ( whatever that is! ) I would definitely recommend a Qashqai to anyone looking for a more stylish alternative to say a Golf, but personally would stay away from the diesels, because the legendary Nissan reliability lives on in their petrol engines - Stuart from London

Nissan Qashqai Acenta 1.5 DCI 2007

My wife and I have (many years experienced and careful drivers) owned our Nissan Qashqai Acenta 1.5 DCI for almost 3 years 17500 miles (only our 2nd ever new car and like most people had to work hard and save for the funds to purchase the car and of course because of Nissans previously good reliability reputation we were hoping for mostly trouble free ownership !!!!!) Although it is reliable and very good to drive. Good amount of technical equipment including packing sensors. I would like to worn ALL of the problems and faults the car has developed Uncomfortable high default setting on the sound system when start up. (Nissan say characteristic of car). TWO steering recalls. Lighting & alarm software reset Door locking solenoid changed (both doors) And of course the now common rear shock absorbers change (DEALERS WOULD ONLY CHANGE FAULTY ONE SO TWO SEPERATE REPLACEMENTS WERE NEEDED AND REQUIRED) and just last week BOTH REPLACED AGAIN (3 SETS OF SHOCKERS IN LESS THAN 3 YEARS) Nissan really, perhaps 1 modification, maybe expect but 2 mod WHAT has happened regarding your quality controls? Both front Track rod end arms (corrosion picked up at 1st MOT inspection, NOT from my dealer) Although thankfully our dealer has replaced these because our car is just within warranty (27 March) This is my 1st review I have ever written and from my experience with our Nissan I just felt I needed to warn other owners of these potential and common faults that they might have/get with their Qashqai’s and perhaps get them checked out before warranty ends.

Nissan Qashqai Techna 2008

Having lots of problems recently. Hard suspension which, has been replaced once. Squeaky front leather seats. Door handle trim has fallen off three times now, having been replaced twice. Parts very expensive; two new tyres £300, new front brakes £300, second service £300. It’s only done 25k.

Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dCi 106 Tekna 2008

Hi, I just thought I would let you all know that Auto Expess have done a 60000 Miles strip down on the Qashqai to see if it’s actually any good. You will be amazed at some of the things you will read, it could be the answer to all your problems. My Qashqai is a dreadfull car, honestly would not recommend it. Sensible money will be going on a new 3008 (Yes, a Peugeot. Its a fantastic car) or a volvo xc60 even thought it’s alot more expensive than the Peugeot.

Responses to this review

We have just leased our first Nissan after driving Peugeot, Mazda and Volvo, which we found were too small. I’m six foot, and fit in the Nissan with no trouble at all plenty of space for wheel chair and shopping. The 1.5dci engine is a dream on the motorway - Derek Harrison from Warwickshire

My brother bought a new 3008 1.6 HDi Exclusive brand new in November 2009, I also have a June ’09 Qashqai 1.5 dCi Tekna and the Peugeot is definitely the better car! For a start, I have had two sets of shocks on the back, a new power steering pump and turbocharger. His Peugeot has given him no bother at all and it’s a far more advanced car! I am still paying for this damn Qashqai but once my HP is clear, it’s for the road and I might get down to the local Peugeot dealer, though I don’t want to be seen to be copying my brother haha - Micheál McKiernan from Northern Ireland

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 Petrol 2007

I have had 50 cars to date all different models With all kind of problems, But the Acenta 1.6 is good all round car I had my basic faults like shock absorbers and fan belt as the rest of the early ones, but other than that, (no problem) Thanks J Edgar’s of Rowrah, Cumbria

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 petrol 2007

One of the first on the road and the only problem after 28 months has been a squeaky fan belt, which was sorted by the dealer. An ideal car with good, higher driving position, plenty of leg room all round. Have ordered new model, the +2, and have every confidence in the vehicle.

Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dCi 105 Acenta 2008

Buying this was the biggest mistake of my life!. It’s so unreliable, you can tell Nissan and Renault are building and designing cars together because it’s got the awfull reliability of Renault and the boring, uninspiring, dull feel of a Nissan. The engine just about starts in the cold morning and I have had new shock absorbers fitted. Not good for a year and a half old car!! Don’t buy one.

Nissan Qashqai tekna 2008

I purchased mine in Aug 08 and have had masses of things go wrong. It’s been back to the workshop about a dozen times and is currently experiencing a thumping noise from the rear on uneven road surfaces, has anyone any ideas? And yes, I’ve had shockers changed.

Responses to this review

The problem with the thumping noise from the rear is the bushes in the rear axle, and it’s a known concern. Take it back to the dealers and get them changed - Trevor Mann from England

I had the same problem it was the boot lock... Catherine Kelly from Ireland

It’s definitely the boot lock. An easy solution is to wrap insulaton tape round the keeper and you will find the noise goes away - William Morrison from Scotland

Nissan Qashqai 2009

Question. How small are your testers? Two minutes in the front and rear of a Quashqai revealed that it’s too small for a normal six-footer. In the driver’s seat my head hit the top of the windscreen and even with seat fully lowered I still had to move it back, severly reducing rear leg room. It’s certainly no replacement for the Tino which was, indeed, man-size. No sale there then. I’ll stick with my C-Max which has generous head- and leg- room (and full-depth rear side windows).

Responses to this review

I can only presume you are dreaming. Im 6 foot 2 and find plenty of room - Rob Crabtree from Lancashire

I hate this car, so much so that I took it back and the dealer bought it off me. It’s so uncomfortable behind the wheel and its not nice to drive, on the test drive it felt nice to drive but when you live with it everyday it’s horrid. I had serious trouble with the suspension and exterior trim, also the 1.5 DCI engine really struggled to pull the car in any sort of degree, also in the mornings it really struggled to start. If this car is all its cracked up to be what it’s supposed to be? Stay away and buy a decent reliable car like a Mazda 3, Honda Civic or a Peugeot 308 - Jim Lewis from Hertfordshire

I am very surprised by these negative comments, I have had my 1.5 DCI Visia for 2 years and notched up 62000 miles. I am 6’2 and have found the car very comfortable, I have had no problems whatsoever and have been very pleased with the car, so much so I have just changed over to the NTEC version which is very well spec’d for the money - Steve Kitt from England

I have had mine for three years, the only problem being with the shocks which have been replaced. I am six foot tall and I love the car. I would have changed it for a new replacement but I didn’t like the plain seats, so hanging on to this baby for now - Martin Rutley from Devon

I’ve had my 1.5 dci for two years and apart from one recall on the steering box screw I have not had any faults with the car. I am 6’5’ and 18 stone and find the car has plenty of room front and rear. What’s more the seats are excellent. I drive all over wales 6 days a week, about 45 thousend miles per year, up and down mountains and the M4 and find the engine pulls well. The car returns 56/62 MPG, what more can you want from a car? I will buy another and reccomend it to anyone - Jim from Carmarthenshire

I have arthritis and the problem I have found is that even with the seats lowered I struggle to get in due to the low door height. I love the higher driving, which is why we chose this car, but my husband is only 5’9 and he keeps banging is head on the roof! (he is long bodied!). Previously had a C-Max, the head height was much better in that but the road handling over-all is much better in the Qashqai - especially in the snow - Helen Mann from Staffordshire

Nissan Qashqai 2007

Great car, but after 17000 miles rear shock absorbers bushes have spilt. This is a known problem but not a recall. Also, cam belt needed sorting. Otherwise, sat nav and rear camera are brilliant, just like the rest of the car. Postcode sat nav would be even better. I will buy another Qashqai next year; going for the N-Tec.

Responses to this review

Cam belt I was told... the 1.6 petrol qashqai does not have one....? David Roberts from Denbighshire

I’m comptemplating buying one (1.6 QASHQAI VISIA) and would be grateful to have some answers to these questions. 1. Does the 1.6 litre petrol engine use cambelt or timing chain? 2. Does anyone know if Nissan sorted out familiar problems associated with the earlier model (pre-facelift) 3. Any info on real world fuel consumption. Thank you - Kofi Sampong II from Ghana

Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dci Acenta 2008

A fantastic car -not all QQ club members are dissatisfied with their cars! (see comment 11/08/08) Great for fuel-long and short journeys. Very comfortable and a great ride position. We replaced a Nissan Primera estate but haven’t found the smaller boot a problem at all and it’s very quiet. Yes, I do have 2 niggles-the size of the clock and when you attach roof bars you have to pull away the door trim but other than that if we had the money would would buy a second one!

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 Petrol Tekna 2009

This is my second Qashqai Tekna. I bought my first on May 2007 and was delighted with the car for the time I drove it. I just had to upgrade to the 2009 model. The improvements I have noticed over the 2007 model lie in the 18" wheels the Tekna now has. In the few days I have had it 3 passengers have commented on the superior ride. Not that the other car was bad mind! The Connect system appears to be very functional incorporating Sat Nav, bluetooth connectivity, radio,CD and MP3. The colour reversing camera is a good upgrade over the 2007 model too. Rear privacy glass, a new silver grill and 10 spoke alloy wheels only enhance what to me is a very nice car. As for reliability both cars start first time every time and although the 2007 model had a problem with a whine from the fan belt in wet weather it was cured by a trip to the dealers. Hopefully the 2009 model with not suffer with the same affliction. I did mainly urban driving in the 2007 and managed about 35 Miles per Gallon. On longer trips the MPG rose up to 42 when using the cruise control. One happy Nissan QQ owner.

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 Acenta 2009

Great car when compared with the Astra, Focus and Golf. Each of these competitors have their merits, Focus great to drive the Golf being classy etc, but the Qashqai combines the needs of everyday life brilliantly. The 1.6 engine has enough power for both town & motorway driving, it’s no boy racer but keeps up with faster traffic easily. Having the high seating also makes pulling out from junctions a lot easier, and adds to a feeling of being secure, helped in part by the cock-pit like feel of the interior. To date I’ve not had any issues with my QQ, the fuel economy is around 30 in town, which is not too bad ( considering its size ) and should improve once loosened up a bit. Also group 5 insurance is what you would expect for a super-mini not a car in this class, which means that my ownership costs should be competitive. Finally the quality of the fit and finish is top drawer, but the quality of the materials used are not quite in the Golfs league but easily better than a Ford Focus.

Responses to this review

Considering this is a modern car I think that the fuel consumption is poor. I am due to get a 1500dci QQ but as it stands the 1600 petrol QQ is no better on fuel than my 1998 Renault Scenic 1600 petrol, which does 30mpg in town and upto 44mpg on a steady run. I recently spent a week up in north Wales. The drive to north Wales from south Wales consist of winding A class roads. I averaged 41mpg over the 5 days which consisted of the journey there and driving around local roads when I arrived. That is excellent for a 12 year old car with nearly 140000 miles on the clock - Kevin Cozens from Swansea

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 Visia 2wd 2007

Thought I’d give you our thoughts on the base model which we are about to return at the end of its two year lease. I’ve rated a 3 but 3.5 would be fair. Good points : Looks good, plenty of space, nice cabin/materials, higher driving position. Bad points : Notchy gearbox, could do with 6th gear for motorway cruising, servicing expensive. We’ve been happy with the car over the last two years bar the comments above. Average 34 mpg over the two years for mainly about town running.

Responses to this review

Hi Steve, I have had my Qashqai 1.6 N-tec for 4 weeks now and am really enjoying the drive. There are a few niggly things that I could comment on, but overall I am really pleased with it. The main issue I have, and I shall speak to the dealer this week about it, is when I approach 70 miles an hour (around 67-73 miles an hour in fact) I get a lot of vibration under the accelerator pedal. The steering wheel doesn’t shake, just a lot of vibration on the pedal. I know it is only a 1.6 and I expect it to struggle a little at that speed, but I never had that vibration in my 1.6 Astra. Any thoughts? Claire from Kent

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 Acenta 2008

4 star looks, intense blue - great colour. Only one thing... I drove 10 miles after filling it up before the petrol gauge moved from full and started dropping - so not great.

Nissan Qashqai 1.5dci Acenta 2008

Unfortunately I don’t share the below opinions. I bought a 1.5 diesel for my wife and it is now back at the mechanics workshop just one week after taking delivery. This diesel engine is a bit of a nightmare. Great economy but very low on power. Nissan’s figure of 12.2 seconds for 0-100kph is simply a lie. I think 15 seconds at best. Also, after the first 500 miles, the engine starts to sound like a bag of spanners. When opening and closing doors, you need to treat it like paper as the noises and rattles make me fear that something is going to fall off at any moment. It must be Nissan employees putting on the previous test reports because if you look at the forums in Qashqai club, you will find that there are many angry owners out there. If someone offered me what I paid less five hundred quid to take the car now, I’d bite their hand off.

Nissan Qashqai 1.5 DCi Tekna 2007

Great little car but I’m not sure I’d rave about it being the best car I’ve ever had. For a 1.5D the engine is surprisingly good. It can be a little bit noisy but all in all very good. The Tekna comes with a few luxury items that I think are a must for this car. The panoramic roof is a nice gimmick and lets lots of light into the car making it feel extremely spacious inside, great for long journeys if you have kids in the back! To be honest, it probably wouldn’t matter to me if it had it or not though. The driving position is excellent and even though it’s such a tall car, it handles pretty well. I have had mine now for about 8K miles and so far it’s been up to the usual standards of Nissan as far as reliability goes and I really think this car will continue to run forever. Trim quality however is also to usual Nissan standards which is a bit disappointing. After such a short time I am having a couple of problems with the trim but they are all fairly minor. 1) Plastic surrounding driver’s door lock is loose. 2) Driver’s door mirror is a little loose so vibrates at speed. 3) Driver’s door hinge makes loud clicking noise when opening/closing . 4) Rubber stopper on inside of boot lid has come off. 5) Lots of rattles from parcel shelf (could be related to 4) 6) Rear seatbelt machanism cover has fell off. 7) Front fog-lights seem very very flimsy - be careful when washing! Besides these minor faults, the over-use of cheap plastic parts is a little bit worrying but much much better than the Dodge Calibre I looked at as an alternative. The leather in the Tekna also seems a little "plastic-y" but again at the price range I wouldn’t expect much else and it does seem to be quite hard wearing so far. Boot space is OK, but I also looked at the Kia Sportage which had a great flat folding seat arrangement allowing for masses of boot space (different class of car though) Although I have been looking at the Qashqai 2+2 and this seems to have a similar flat-folding seat arrangement. One of the strangest things about it is that it has turned more heads than any car I’ve ever had (and I’ve had a few exceptional cars) people just seem to be so interested in it. Almost anyone who passes it in the street seems to want to have a look inside! Not really surprising though as it definitely has some quirky styling. My verdict - good value, great family car but I do miss my old Saab. There’s definitely a market for this car but I don’t know if I personally would have another one.

Nissan Qashqai 2007

After having had two Ford Focus’s, I needed a change and what a change! Far better than the Focus, better for value, better to drive. Buy one!

Nissan Qashqai Tekna 2008

Just completed 2000 miles in my Tekna. Best car I have ever owned, if you can afford it go for the 2.0 with the glass roof and leather. I had test drives in Audi, Lexus and BMW but the Qashqai beats them all for comfort, styling and design. The car attracts admiring glances where ever I go and looks a premium car. 10 out 10 for Nissan.

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 petrol 2007

I agree with the comments on this site. The Qashqai is a cracking car and does what it says on tin. It is quite a heavy car and feels supremely solid and practical. Well done Nissan you’ve got yourselves a winner!

Nissan Qashqai 2.0 dCi Tekna 4x4 2008

I used to drive a Mini Cooper S, and wasn’t on the lookout for a new car until a colleague at work brought a brochure for the QQ in to browse (his missus had pointed one out to him in a car park and he’d decided to look into buying one for himself). From the moment I got to the page showing the panoramic glass roof, I wanted one. Within a week I’d checked out all the specs, read lots of reviews, test driven a 1.5dCi Tekna and ordered one! I pick it up middle of June and can’t wait!

Nissan Qashqai 2.0 dCi Tekna 2007

Ran a Vauxhall Meriva for many years and was very happy with it but fancied a change. The Qashqai seemed just right for me and my expanding family, and the interior space and ample boot room fits all 5 of the Sutton family with room to spare. Ride position is high, suspension very good. Cost price is very reasonable and left me with change from my budget. The engine is punchy, I went for the 2 litre rather than the standard 1.6 as I enjoy having the power to pull away and overtake when necessary. There are almost no negatives, if I had to be picky then I might say that the large pillars make visibility poorer than it could have been but this really is a small quibble. Everything about the Nissan Qashqai is well laid out practical and I would not hesitate in recommending it to family and friends.

Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dCi Visia 2008

I fancied a change. I didn’t want a gas-guzzling 4x4 or an ordinary MPV and went looking for something "different". This was when my head was turned by the Qashqai, it is called a compact MPV and looks much better in reality than it does when looking at images online. Fuel economy is good (50+) and the CO2 emissions are only 145g/km which means it is classed as green. It also falls into insurance group 5 - not too expensive to insure. If you are looking for something a little different that gives a great feel of security for your family plus making family outings a pleasure rather than a chore then I highly recommend the Nissan Qashqai.

Nissan Qashqai 2.0 Acenta 2WD 5 dr 2008

Fabulous car. Really comfortable, Sat Nav and integrated bluetooth definitely worth it. Very smooth drive on motorway or B roads. I like the high driving position to!

Responses to this review

Hiya Cath, what is your 2 litre like on petrol? I have been given anything from 34mpg - 49mpg around town! Before I buy I would like an owner’s perspective if poss - Linda Mansell from Lancashire

32.4 - stays the same all the time. I do a mix of motorway and B road driving - Cath from London 

You more than likely have water getting into your car or the A/C needs a service or you need to change carbon filter - John Walsh from Ireland

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 Acenta 2007

Fantastic, best car I have owned, and that takes a lot for me to say as I am very critical when it comes to cars. I have covered 8,500 miles now. very reliable, economical, comfortable and certainly different from your average ford focus looking cars.

Nissan Qashqai 1.5 DCI 2007

I wanted a car to replace my VW diesel Golf, the qashqai 1.5 dci turbo diesel 104 bhp was the car i brought ,excellent fuel economy 55 m.p.g. plenty of power from this small but lusty engine, great for parking with a tremendous lock, it sits nice and high so you get all good round visibility. I just done 30,000 miles in this car and I can't fault it

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 Acenta 2008

I wanted a car to replace my Primera. At first I dismissed the Qashqai and looked at Toyota, Ford and even BMW. However, one test drive and I was hooked. It’s so well finished, extremely comfortable, superior equipment levels, a great drive and economical. The versatility of the split seats and rear luggage space make it a proper load carrier too. The elevated driving position is great in traffic. Overall - an excellent car.

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 Visia 2007

I am very pleased with my 1.6 Visia, it provides me with a comfortable ride due mainly to a good driving position. The cruise control and reversing sensores further enhance the quality feel and the reliabilty has so far not been called into question. Good inside space and the certainly feels safe on both A-roads and motorways. An excellent product from Nissan, well done to them.

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 Visia 2007

This is the ideal choice for a family 4x4. The new car price is within the reach of most and the reliabilty is exemplary. This is a comfortable ride with a great feeling of safety and solidity. Spacious, reliable and good value for money.

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 Visia 2007

What a car, bought this to placate my wife, who wanted something big enough for all the family, but small enough for her to handle and also not get too beat up about the green issues. Since buying this car, I have commandered for myself, as it is a complete joy to drive, has quite an angular look to it and is a bargain to boot. Highly recommend.

Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dci Visia

The Nissan Qashqai has the feel of a premium 4x4 without the price tag or the hate, no one will believe that this car cost less than £25,000 or that it does 50mpg! Try it!!

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 Tekna

Perfect style and perfect handling! Suprising performance and economy from 1.6 engine! Only sound quality of the speakers is poor!

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 Acenta 2WD 5 dr

Difficult to pronounce, easy to fall in love with. This car is so stylish and my kids absolutely love being driven to school in it. Great on short or long journeys. Haven’t found anything about it to dislike. Definitely value for money.