Nissan Qashqai 2 (J11, 2014–2021): all characteristics, engines and features

Nissan Qashqai second generation (index J11) has become a real bestseller on the Russian market, combining the practicality of a hatchback, the cross-country ability of a crossover and the reliability of a Japanese brand. Produced from 2014 to 2021, this car has won the love of drivers thanks to its balanced performance, economical engines and spacious interior. But what exactly makes it so popular? Let's figure it out.

Unlike the first generation, Qashqai J11 received a completely updated platform CMF-C/D, which later formed the basis for many models Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi. The car was offered with gasoline and diesel engines, front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, as well as in several equipment levels - from basic Visia to top Tekna. In this article we will take a detailed look at all the technical characteristics, compare the configurations and highlight the key features that you should pay attention to when purchasing.

Technical characteristics of Nissan Qashqai 2 (J11)

Second generation Qashqai it was offered with four types of engines: two gasoline (1.2 and 2.0 liters) and two diesel (1.5 and 1.6 liters). All engines were combined with a manual or automatic transmission, as well as an all-wheel drive system ALL-MODE 4×4-i (optional). Let's consider the main parameters:

• 🔧 Platform: CMF-C/D (joint with Renault Kadjar And Mitsubishi ASX)
• 📏 Dimensions: 4377×1806×1590 mm (length×width×height)
• ⚖️ Curb weight: from 1300 to 1500 kg (depending on configuration)
• 🛣️ Ground clearance: 190 mm (enough for urban conditions and light off-road)

Feature Qashqai J11 became a system Chassis Control, which includes adaptive suspension, electronic stability control and intelligent hill-start assist. These technologies make the car more controllable and safer, especially on slippery roads or in poor visibility conditions.

Engines and transmissions: which one to choose?

Engine selection for Nissan Qashqai 2 depends on your priorities: efficiency, dynamics or reliability. Let's consider each option in more detail.

Engine model	Volume, l	Power, hp	Torque, Nm	Gearbox type	Fuel consumption, l/100 km
HR12DDT	1.2	115	190	Manual6 / automatic transmission	5.6–6.2 (city)
MR20DD	2.0	144	200	Manual transmission6 / CVT	7.2–8.5 (city)
K9K	1.5 dCi	110	260	Manual transmission6	4.2–4.8 (city)
R9M	1.6 dCi	130	320	Manual transmission6	4.5–5.1 (city)

The most economical option is 1.5 dCi with total fuel consumption 4.2 liters per 100 km in the urban cycle. However, it is worth considering that diesel engines are more sensitive to fuel quality and require regular maintenance. Gasoline 2.0 with a CVT, on the contrary, it offers better dynamics and smoothness, but consumes more fuel.

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Qashqai with variator Jatco JF016E be sure to check the service history. This box requires an oil change every 60,000 km, otherwise the risk of breakdown increases significantly.

Options and equipment: what did Nissan offer?

Nissan Qashqai J11 offered in five basic trim levels: Visia, Acenta, N-Connecta, N-Tec And Tekna. Each of them had its own characteristics, but even the basic version was well equipped for its time.

• 🚗 Visia: air conditioning, 4 airbags, audio system with 4 speakers, power accessories
• 🎛️ Acenta: climate control, cruise control, parking sensors, 16-inch wheels
• 📱 N-Connecta: multimedia system with navigation, rear view camera, heated front seats
• 🔧 N-Tec: leather steering wheel, system Around View Monitor, LED headlights
• 💎 Tekna: leather interior, panoramic roof, adaptive cruise control, premium audio system Bose

One of the key advantages of the top trim levels was the system Nissan Safety Shield, which includes:

• 🚨 Collision avoidance (Forward Emergency Braking)
• 👁️ Blind spot monitoring (Blind Spot Warning)
• 🚦 Traffic sign recognition (Traffic Sign Recognition)

If you are looking for a car with maximum comfort and safety, you should pay attention to the versions Tekna or N-Tec. However, even basic Visia offers everything you need for everyday use.

What is Nissan Safety Shield?

This is a set of active safety systems that helps the driver avoid emergency situations. It includes automatic emergency braking, trailer stability control, lane keep assist and other features. Since 2017, these systems have become standard on most Qashqai trims in Europe.

Suspension and handling: how does the Qashqai perform on the road?

Suspension Qashqai J11 tuned for comfort while still maintaining good handling. The front part is equipped with racks MacPherson, and the rear has a multi-link system, which ensures a smooth ride and minimal roll when cornering. However, there are also nuances:

• ✅ Pros: softness on uneven surfaces, good sound insulation, precise steering
• ❌ Cons: At high speeds (over 140 km/h) the steering may feel “floating”, especially on versions with high profile tires

All-wheel drive system ALL-MODE 4×4-i automatically distributes torque between axles depending on road conditions. In normal mode, the car is front-wheel drive, but when it slips, the rear axle engages. This solution allows you to save fuel without sacrificing cross-country ability.

⚠️ Attention: During operation Qashqai With all-wheel drive, avoid long periods of driving in deep snow or mud without preparation. The system is not designed for serious off-road use and may overheat.

Fuel consumption and real indicators

Official fuel consumption data often differs from actual figures, especially in urban environments. Let's compare the figures stated by the manufacturer with reviews from owners:

Engine	Claimed consumption (city), l/100 km	Actual consumption (according to reviews), l/100 km
1.2 HR12DDT	5.6–6.2	7.0–8.5
2.0 MR20DD	7.2–8.5	9.5–11.0
1.5 dCi K9K	4.2–4.8	5.0–6.0
1.6 dCi R9M	4.5–5.1	5.5–6.5

As can be seen from the table, actual fuel consumption can be 15–20% higher than stated, especially in city traffic jams or with an aggressive driving style. Diesel versions remain the most economical, but require more careful attention to fuel quality and regular filter replacement.

Advice for owners of gasoline versions: use fuel no lower than AI-95, since the engines Qashqai J11 sensitive to octane number. Otherwise, detonation may occur and reduce engine life.

Pros and cons of Nissan Qashqai 2 (J11)

Like any car, Qashqai The second generation has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's take a closer look at them so you can make an informed choice.

• ✅ Spacious interior: Despite the compact external dimensions, there is enough space inside for five passengers. The 430-litre boot can be expanded to 1,585-litres by folding down the rear seats.
• ✅ Reliability: With timely maintenance, the car rarely breaks down. This is especially true for petrol versions with a manual transmission.
• ✅ Rich equipment: even basic trim levels offer modern safety and comfort systems.
• ✅ Good cross-country ability: Ground clearance of 190 mm and all-wheel drive allow you to feel confident on snow and dirt roads.

However, there are also disadvantages that you should be aware of:

• ❌ CVT: box Jatco JF016E Requires careful handling and regular maintenance. If you ignore oil changes, jerking and breakdowns may occur.
• ❌ Noise of diesel versions: engines 1.5 dCi And 1.6 dCi can be quite loud, especially when cold.
• ❌ Spare parts price: original parts are expensive, but there are high-quality analogues from Bosch, Febi and other manufacturers.
• ❌ Poor sound insulation: At high speeds, noise from the wheels and wind can be heard in the cabin.

Owner reviews: what do they say about Qashqai 2?

To form an objective opinion about Nissan Qashqai J11, let's turn to reviews from real owners. Most of them note the following points:

• 👍 "Great family car": spacious, comfortable, with good ergonomics. I especially like the large glove compartment and many compartments for small items.
• 👍 "Reliable in operation": with regular maintenance over 100,000 km, no serious breakdowns. Consumables only.
• 👎 "The variator is a weak point": after 80,000 km jerks began to appear. I had to change the oil and filters, after which the transmission returned to normal.
• 👎 "Diesel is noisy, but economical": On the highway the consumption is about 4.5 liters, but in the city you can hear the engine running.

Many owners also note that Qashqai holds its price well on the secondary market, making it a good investment. However, you should be careful when buying a used car: check the service history, especially if we are talking about versions with a CVT or diesel engine.

Interesting fact: according to surveys, more than 60% of owners Qashqai J11 We are ready to recommend this car to friends and acquaintances. This is one of the highest loyalty rates among crossovers in its class.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Nissan Qashqai 2

Which engine is the most reliable in the Qashqai J11?

Gasoline is considered the most reliable 2.0 MR20DD, especially when paired with a manual transmission. It is less picky about fuel quality and has a long service life (with proper maintenance - up to 300,000 km or more). Diesel engines are also durable, but require more frequent oil and filter changes.

Is it worth taking a Qashqai with a CVT?

Yes, but only if you are ready to follow the operating rules: change the oil in the gearbox regularly (every 60,000 km), avoid sudden starts and towing heavy trailers. When treated with care, the variator Jatco JF016E It lasts a long time, but its repair is expensive.

Which package has the best price/quality ratio?

The best choice would be N-Connecta. It offers a multimedia system with navigation, a rear view camera, climate control and heated seats, without overpaying for premium options, as in Tekna.

What is the real service life of Qashqai 2 engines?

With timely maintenance, gasoline engines run 250,000–300,000 km, diesel engines - up to 400,000 km. However, the resource depends on the quality of the fuel, oil and driving style. For example, turbocharged 1.2 HR12DDT sensitive to overheating and requires high quality coolant.

Is it possible to install gas equipment on the Qashqai J11?

Technically yes, but it is not recommended for direct injection engines (e.g. 1.2 HR12DDT), as this can lead to premature valve wear. For 2.0 MR20DD installing LPG is possible, but requires adjustment for a specific engine and regular checking of the system.