Crossover Nissan Qashqai second generation (J11, 2014–2021) has become one of the most popular cars in Russia thanks to its combination of urban practicality and off-road ambitions. However, the question ground clearance remains key when choosing: is 190 mm enough for Russian roads, how to measure it correctly and can it be safely increased? In this article we will analyze the official data, design nuances and real ground clearance values taking into account load and suspension wear.
Many owners are faced with conflicting information: the technical specifications indicate one ground clearance, but in practice another. We analyzed the data for all trim levels (including Qashqai+2), compared with competitors (Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson) and collected feedback on actual use. We will pay special attention to how ground clearance changes over time and what to do if it is not enough for your driving conditions.
Official clearance Nissan Qashqai J11 by version
Manufacturer declares ground clearance for Qashqai second generation within 190–210 mm, but these figures depend on the configuration, drive type and year of manufacture. For example, models with all-wheel drive (4WD) traditionally have higher ground clearance than front-wheel drive (2WD). Here are the exact data from the factory documentation:
| Model / Equipment | Drive | Ground clearance, mm (factory) | Ground clearance, mm (real*) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Qashqai 1.2 DIG-T (2014–2017) | 2WD | 190 | 175–185 |
| Qashqai 1.6 dCi (2014–2021) | 2WD / 4WD | 190 / 200 | 180–195 |
| Qashqai+2 2.0 (2014–2017) | 4WD | 200 | 190–200 |
| Qashqai 1.3 DIG-T (2018–2021) | 2WD / 4WD | 190 / 200 | 180–195 |
*Actual values are given taking into account the vehicle’s full load (4–5 people + luggage) and suspension wear after 50–80 thousand km. The difference with the factory data can be up to 10–25 mm.
It is important to understand that clearance is measured under engine protection (if installed) or under the front subframe. In the rear of the car, clearance is usually 5–10 mm greater due to the suspension design. For example, at Qashqai 1.6 dCi 4WD under the rear bumper there can be up to 210 mm, and under the front bumper - only 190 mm.
- Less than 180 mm
- 180–190 mm
- 190–200 mm
- More than 200 mm
- Didn't measure
How to correctly measure ground clearance yourself
Factory data is good, but actual ground clearance may vary due to sagging springs, worn shock absorbers, or additional equipment (such as skid plates). To find out exactly the clearance of your Qashqai, follow these instructions:
- Prepare the car: place it on a flat surface (no slope), remove cargo from the trunk and interior, check the tire pressure (there should be
2.2–2.4 barfor standard wheelsR17). - Define measuring points:
- 🔹 Under the front bumper (near the engine protection or subframe).
- 🔹 Under the rear bumper (at the rear beam).
- 🔹 Under bridges (if you can crawl under the car).
Flat area without slope|Car without load or passengers|Tire pressure gauge|Laser tape measure or ground clearance gauge|Notepad for recording front/rear values-->
Please note: if your Qashqai abnormal protection has been installed (for example, from TecDoc or AVS), it can reduce the ground clearance by 10–30 mm. Also check the condition of the springs: if they sag, the clearance will be less even when the cabin is empty.
⚠️ Attention: Do not measure the ground clearance after a long period of parking - the shock absorbers may have “settled”. Ride 5–10 km before measuring so that the suspension takes its working position.
Why clearance decreases over time: main reasons
Even if upon purchase Qashqai J11 had the coveted 200 mm, after 3–5 years of operation this figure may be reduced by 15–30 mm. Here are the key factors affecting ground clearance:
- 🔧 Wear of springs and shock absorbers: after 80–100 thousand km, the springs lose their elasticity, and the shock absorbers begin to “sag.” This is especially noticeable on cars that often drive with a full load.
- 🚗 Additional equipment: A skid plate, towbar or roof rack increases weight and reduces ground clearance by 5-15mm.
- 🛞 Non-standard wheels: larger diameter discs (e.g.
R19instead ofR17) with low-profile tires visually increase ground clearance, but in reality reduce it due to the lower height of the tire sidewall. - ⚙️ Suspension adjustment: after replacing silent blocks or levers, the geometry may change, which will affect the clearance.
For example, at Qashqai 1.6 dCi with a mileage of 120 thousand km, the ground clearance under the front bumper often drops to 160–170 mm, which makes it difficult to overcome even shallow snowdrifts or curbs. If you notice that the car has begun to “cling” where it previously drove without problems, it’s time to check the suspension.
How to check springs for wear without removing them?
Lift the hood and look at the springs from the front: if the coils are touching even without load, they need to be replaced. Also pay attention to traces of corrosion - rusty springs lose stiffness faster. Check the rear of the body: if after pressing the bumper the car “sways” for a long time, the shock absorbers are worn out.
Ground clearance comparison Qashqai J11 with competitors
To assess how much ground clearance you have Nissan Qashqai second generation, let's compare it with its main rivals in the compact crossover class. It is important to consider that some models (for example, Toyota RAV4) ground clearance is indicated under the bridges, and not under the protection, which adds +10–15 mm to the stated figures.
| Model | Ground clearance, mm (factory) | Real ground clearance*, mm | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Qashqai J11 (4WD) | 200 | 180–195 | Depends on equipment and mileage |
| Kia Sportage 4 (2016–2021) | 182 | 170–180 | 10–20 mm smaller, but better body geometry |
| Hyundai Tucson 3 (2015–2020) | 172 | 160–170 | Lowest in class |
| Toyota RAV4 XA40 (2013–2018) | 197 | 190–200 | Measured under bridges, not under protection |
| Skoda Kodiaq (2017–2021) | 194 | 185–195 | Larger dimensions, but comparable clearance |
*Actual values are given for cars with mileage of 50–100 thousand km.
As can be seen from the table, Qashqai J11 occupies an average position in terms of ground clearance, inferior to RAV4 And Kodiaq, but bypassing Sportage And Tucson. However, it is important to consider not only numbers, but also body geometry: y Qashqai short overhangs, which reduces the risk of getting caught in the bumper when leaving the curb.
If you often drive on dirt roads or snow, pay attention to the approach/departure angles. U Qashqai J11 they are 18° in the front and 25° in the rear - this is enough for light off-road, but not for serious off-road.
How to increase clearance Nissan Qashqai J11: safe and dangerous ways
If the factory ground clearance is not enough for you, there are several ways to increase it. However, not all of them are equally useful: some can worsen handling or reduce suspension life. Let's consider the options from the safest to the riskiest.
1. Installing spacers for springs
The most popular and relatively safe method. Spacers made of polyurethane or aluminum are installed between the body and the spring, increasing ground clearance by 20–30 mm. Pros:
- ✅ Low cost (from 3,000 rubles per set).
- ✅ Factory suspension rigidity is maintained.
- ✅ Can be removed at any time.
Cons: the shock absorber travel is reduced, which can lead to premature wear when driving over bumps.
2. Replacing springs with reinforced ones or from Qashqai+2
Springs from version Qashqai+2 (with index 55110-4M00A) 10–15 mm higher than standard. You can also install springs from Nissan X-Trail T32 (article 55110-4M01A), which will give an increase of up to 20 mm. It is important to choose springs with similar stiffness, otherwise handling will suffer.
3. Installation of wheels of larger diameter
Transition from R17 on R18 or R19 with high profile tires (eg 235/55 R18 instead of 215/60 R17) can add 5–10 mm of ground clearance. However, this will affect the speedometer readings and increase the load on the transmission.
4. Replacing shock absorbers with gas-oil ones with increased stroke
Shock absorbers type Kayaba Excel-G or Monroe Reflex have a larger stroke of the rod, which allows you to slightly raise the body. But this method requires professional installation and wheel alignment.
⚠️ Attention: Do not install spacers thicker than 30 mm without modifying the shock absorbers - this will lead to their failure within 10-20 thousand km. Also avoid "cheap" plastic spacers: they can burst under load.
The most balanced option is 20 mm spacers + high-profile tires. This will give +25–30 mm of ground clearance without critical damage to the suspension.
Common clearance problems and how to avoid them
Many owners Qashqai J11 encounter typical ground clearance problems. Here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:
- 🚫 “Clings” to the protection on bumps: if you hear a grinding sound when passing speed bumps, check the fastening of the protection - it may be sagging. Solution: tighten the bolts or install protection with reinforced brackets (for example, from AVS).
- 🚫 Uneven ground clearance front and rear: If the car “nods off,” sagging front springs or worn stabilizer links are to blame. Solution: replacement with new parts (original part numbers: springs -
55110-4M00A, racks -54500-4M00A). - 🚫 Reduced ground clearance after replacing suspension: if after repair the car has become lower, it is possible that non-original spare parts were installed or the suspension was assembled incorrectly. Solution: check the geometry on the bench.
Another common mistake is ignoring wheel alignment adjustment after changing the clearance. Even a small increase in clearance (by 10–15 mm) can shift the wheel alignment angles, which will lead to uneven tire wear and poor handling.
If you often drive off-road, pay attention to departure/approach angles. U Qashqai J11 they are small (18°/25°), so even with increased ground clearance the risk of catching the bumper remains. In such cases, installing plastic "shuriken" (protective bumper covers).
FAQ: Answers to popular questions about clearance Nissan Qashqai J11
Is it possible to drive off-road? Qashqai J11 with factory clearance?
Yes, but with reservations. The car can cope with light off-road conditions: primers, virgin snow (up to 15–20 cm), shallow mud. However, for serious off-road driving, a ground clearance of 190–200 mm is not enough - short overhangs and the lack of differential locks interfere. For such conditions it is better to consider Nissan X-Trail or Mitsubishi Outlander.
What is the ground clearance Qashqai J11 with a full load?
When fully loaded (5 passengers + 500 kg of luggage), the ground clearance decreases by 20–30 mm. For example, if an empty car has a clearance of 200 mm, then under load it will be 170–180 mm. This is especially noticeable on cars with worn springs.
Does ground clearance affect fuel consumption?
Yes, but only slightly. Increasing ground clearance by 20–30 mm (for example, due to spacers) can increase consumption by 0.3–0.5 l/100 km due to worse aerodynamics. However, if the ground clearance has decreased due to sagging springs, consumption, on the contrary, will decrease by 0.1–0.2 l/100 km.
Which tires are best to choose to increase ground clearance?
The best option is high-profile tires with a diameter 1-2 inches larger than the standard one. For example:
- For
R17:225/60 R17instead of215/60 R17(clearance will increase by ~5 mm). - For
R18:235/55 R18instead of225/55 R18(clearance will increase by ~3 mm).
It is important that the total diameter of the wheel does not exceed the factory one by more than 3% (maximum +25 mm), otherwise problems with the operation of the ABS and speedometer may occur.
Is it worth installing a lift kit to increase ground clearance?
Lift kits (suspension lift kits) raise the ground clearance by 40–50 mm, but have a number of disadvantages:
- Handling deteriorates at high speeds.
- The wear of CV joints and drives accelerates.
- There may be problems with passing the technical inspection.
For Qashqai J11 The lift kit is only advisable for regular off-road use. For urban conditions, it is better to limit yourself to spacers of 20–30 mm.