• No Qashqai is particularly pricey to run
• Smaller diesel manages 138g/km of CO2
• Even the sprightliest petrol is cost-effective

Key to the Nissan Qashqai’s popularity has to be the low running costs. Newer models are better, as reducing CO2 goes hand-in-hand with better efficiency, but a used Qashqai also has the advantage of being less complex than the 2022-on models with greater use of hybrid technology.

It sounds like a small engine for a big car, but the 1.3-litre DIG-T engine should be good for 38-40mpg in either 140hp and 160hp form. That includes the automatic DCT version.

The lowest CO2 emissions are found with the petrol models, if you’re looking for cheaper road tax (VED). 

Nissan increased the service intervals for the 1.3-litre petrol engine, to every 18,000 miles instead of 12,500 miles. We’d still to the more frequent option, with good quality oil, once the car’s warranty has expired, and if you find more frequent changes in the service history that’s a good sign.

Diesel models should achieve more than 40mpg in everyday use – again, including the automatic, though it’s less economical than the manual. AWD versions fully disconnect so are front-wheel drive unless extra grip is needed, so there’s not much impact on economy there – but you’ll see a penalty if towing as the engines have to work hard.

Servicing and insurance

Nissan cites easier mechanical access for servicing costs that are lower than the outgoing Qashqai so dealer visits should be less costly. Dealers bundle fixed-price servicing together, with the option of two years’ maintenance paid for up front at purchase for £249, or three years for £349. 

With the Vision Pack of safety equipment fitted, insurance grouping is four bands lower than the equivalent version of the old Qashqai, so this crossover shouldn’t cost a bomb to insure either.

Is the Qashqai Mk2 reliable?

• Nissan Qashqai feels solidly built
• But there have been some reliability issues
• Three-year warranty from new

While many may expect the Qashqai to be a reliable car thanks to a strong reputation enjoyed by many Japanese car manufacturers, this model has actually suffered from five recalls and isn’t quite the bulletproof family car many think it is. Even so, it’s a straightforward car for routine maintenance such as changing the windscreen wipers.

Check the government’s DVSA website to understand what issues the Mk2 Qashqai has been recalled for.

The good news is that if you’re buying a used example, any recall work should have already been carried out.