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The original Nissan Qashqai set the template for the current compact SUV class, while the second generation, launched in 2013, built on its success. For the Qashqai Mk2, Nissan introduced a more SUV-like body that offered increased space inside, while a range of efficient petrol and diesel engines were used.
While the first Qashqai defined the sector, the second generation raised its game to take on a swathe of rivals. Big sellers include the Hyundai ix35/Tucson and Kia Sportage, while the Volkswagen Tiguan, SEAT Ateca and Skoda Yeti/Karoq are also worth considering. Elsewhere, the Ford Kuga, Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are slightly pricier, but offer more space, while the Peugeot 3008 and Opel Grandland are also available. Finally, the Renault Kadjar shares its running gear and tech with the Qashqai.
What's it like?
Diesel is the most common power option for the Qashqai Mk2, with dCi-badged models outnumbering petrol cars by around three to one on the used market. There are 1.5- and 1.6-litre dCi diesels available, the latter coming with the options of an automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive - but not together. A 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine was also offered from launch. This was front-wheel drive only, with manual or auto gearboxes.
A facelift in 2017 introduced an updated look and new tech, while another update in 2019 added a 1.3 DiG-T petrol engine in two outputs, plus new 1.5- and 1.7-litre dCi diesels. Four-wheel drive was only offered with the 1.7 dCi.
Automatic gearboxes make up around a tenth of the Qashqais for sale in Ireland, while four-wheel-drive models are scarce. Trim levels comprise XE, SV, SV Connect and SVE, while SV models can also be upgraded with a Safety Pack that's worth seeking out. UK imports have a different trim structure, with Visia, Acenta, N-Connecta, N-Tec and Tekna on offer.
Which model to go for?
All Qashqais offer plenty of space in a five-seat package (if you want seven seats, there's no Qashqai+2 like the Mk1, instead you have to pick the Nissan X-Trail). Entry-level models are a bit basic in terms of spec, so we'd recommend a mid-range trim for equipment such as parking sensors and navigation.
The 1.5 dCi diesel is the most efficient engine, with the auto model having slightly better official figures than the manual version. If you want four-wheel drive, then the 1.6 or 1.7 dCi diesels are your only option, although these are still reasonably efficient when compared with all-wheel-drive rivals. Petrol models are good for short urban trips where diesel doesn't make as much sense.
Does anything go wrong?
There have been reports of parking sensors filling with water, while issues with air conditioning failure and the radio behaving erratically are also known issues. Recalls have covered items such as the car's electronics, radiator fan and door locks.