Nissan Qashqai (07 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 23 February 2011
The Qashqai is described by Nissan as a crossover - in other words it's a cross between a normal hatchback and an off roader. This may sound like an odd notion but the result is a real success and the modern, chunky styling looks great. It's actually an indirect replacement for the Almera and an alternative to cars like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus and Honda Civic. If you're after something different from the norm the Qashqai (pronounced Cash-kai) fits the bill perfectly. All versions are well equipped, comfortable and good to drive. Four-wheel drive versions are available but the majority of models in the UK are standard front-wheel drive. The Qashqai is also a very British car - it was designed and developed in the UK and is built at Nissan's plant in Sunderland. In 2010 it received a refresh with a new front end, suspension tweaks, extra sound insulation and weight reduction. A 'Pure Drive' model that delivers less emissions and improved fuel economy was also introduced.
3 out of 5

Buying new

It wouldn't be unreasonable to ask your Nissan dealer for a modest discount on a new Qashqai. They will have fairly high sales targets for the car and will need to keep them moving out of the showroom, however it's good value for money taking into account the equipment fitted as standard.

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4 out of 5

Buying used

Looking for a used example may be a more cost-effective way of buying a Qashqai. Any already registered to the dealer or ex-demonstrators will look good value compared with new models. Expect to pay a premium for the diesel models over petrol versions, although with a smaller gap between them than when new. If you're after a facelift model (they're easy to spot thanks to a more angular headlights) these were introduced in March 2010 so will be on a 10-plate or later.

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3 out of 5

Selling

Diesel versions of the Qashqai will be easiest to sell and Acenta specification will probably be most popular. The Qashqai has a good reputation for quality and comfort along with the usual Nissan build quality and reliability - all ideal selling points, especially to family buyers.