The second generation Nissan Qashqai, often referred to as the "Qashqai 2+" by fans and sellers, is one of the most popular models on the Russian crossover market. This is a car that has managed to find the perfect balance between the comfort of city driving and the cross-country ability necessary for our roads. Many buyers confuse the modifications, but it was the 2017 restyled version and subsequent updates that brought important technical and visual changes to the model range.
Owners of this car often note that Nissan Qashqai offers excellent ergonomics and thoughtful sound insulation, which makes it competitive even in the premium crossover class. When choosing a used car or a new car, it is important to understand the difference between earlier versions and updated versions, since they can differ significantly in the reliability of components and assemblies.
History of creation and key differences of restyling
The appearance of a restyled version Nissan Qashqai (2017) was a response to growing competition from European and Asian brands. The designers have significantly redesigned the car's appearance, making it more aggressive and modern. The front end receives a new V-motion style grille, updated LED headlights and a more distinctive bumper, which immediately makes it stand out on the road.
Inside the cabin, changes affected not only the finishing materials, but also the multimedia system. Owners now get support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which has become standard in this class. Build quality The interior has also grown, the squeaks characteristic of earlier releases have disappeared, and the plastic has become more pleasant to the touch. This is an important aspect to consider when inspecting a used car.
The technical part has also undergone changes, although the engineers did not radically revise the platform. The main innovation was adaptation to new environmental standards and improved operation of security systems. All-wheel drive system began to work even more efficiently, distributing torque not only along the axles, but also between the rear wheels, which improves handling in difficult weather conditions.
Engines and transmission: what to choose?
The heart of most models on our market are gasoline engines of the MR family. The most popular remains the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter unit with a power of 144 hp. This motor has a high reliability and a resource that, with proper maintenance, exceeds 300 thousand kilometers. It requires little maintenance and easily tolerates our petrol stations, making it an ideal choice for taxi drivers and long journeys.
A less common, but more modern option is the turbocharged 1.2 DIG-T with 115 hp. This engine is designed for those who value dynamics with low fuel consumption. However, its service life is lower than that of its two-liter brother, and it is more sensitive to the quality of oil and fuel. Turbocharger may require replacement after a mileage of about 150-180 thousand kilometers, which must be taken into account when purchasing.
The engines are paired with two main gearboxes. Old 6-speed manual Jatco remains the standard of reliability, although less popular among city drivers. The automatic CVT (continuously variable) transmission provides a smooth ride, but requires strict adherence to oil change regulations. Ignoring this rule can lead to expensive CVT repairs.
- 2.0 l (144 hp) - the ideal balance of power and resource for our conditions.
- 1.2 l turbo (115 hp) - economical, but demanding on maintenance.
- CVT - requires oil changes every 60,000 km without exception.
Sudden starts from a standstill and constant overloads shorten the service life of not only the engine, but also the transmission. For family use, it is recommended to avoid aggressive driving, especially when the engine is cold.
- 2.0 naturally aspirated (reliability)
- 1.2 turbo (economy)
- I'm waiting for a hybrid
- It doesn't matter, the main thing is the price
Typical problems and malfunctions
Despite the high reputation Nissan Qashqai 2+ has a number of characteristic problems that owners should be aware of. One of the most common complaints is the failure of the Start-Stop system. The brake pedal sensors and battery may not work properly, causing the system to lock up. This does not affect traffic, but it irritates the driver who is used to saving fuel in traffic jams.
⚠️ Attention: If the all-wheel drive system error light comes on, do not ignore it. This may indicate overheating of the clutch or problems with the speed sensors, which will subsequently lead to gearbox failure.
The car's suspension is quite durable, but the rear shock absorbers often require replacement ahead of schedule. It is also worth carefully checking the condition of the silent blocks of the levers, since on bad roads they can collapse within 100 thousand kilometers. Steering rack in some batches it could have a backlash, which grew over time and required repair or replacement.
Electronics can also bring surprises. Sometimes problems arise with the multimedia system: the screen may freeze or not respond to touches. In such cases, resetting settings or updating software via USB port. However, if the problem is hardware, the head unit will need to be replaced.
What to do if there is an all-wheel drive error?
Check the oil level in the gearbox. If it is normal, the problem may be with the ABS sensors. Try resetting the error through the diagnostic scanner, but if it returns, go to a service center to check the rear axle clutch.
Maintenance and work schedule
Compliance with maintenance regulations is the key to the long life of your crossover. The engine oil should be changed not once a year, but every 7-8 thousand kilometers, especially if you drive a lot around the city. Oil filter must be replaced every time the lubricant is changed, since cheap analogues may not cope with cleaning.
Transmission oil in the variator requires special attention. The manufacturer claims a “lifetime” service life, but this is a myth. The actual oil life is about 60,000 km. After this, it loses its properties and begins to form deposits that clog the valve body. Oil change should be carried out using the replacement method to flush out the old fluid from all channels of the system.
☑️ Maintenance checklist before winter
The brake system also requires regular inspection. Brake discs can become deformed during heavy braking, which can be felt by vibration in the steering wheel. Brake pads on the front wheels wear out faster than on the rear wheels, so their condition must be checked every 15,000 km.
Before a long trip, be sure to check the tire pressure, including the spare tire. Underinflated wheels increase fuel consumption and can lead to overheating of tires on the highway.
Comparison of characteristics with competitors
In the compact crossover class Nissan Qashqai competes with models such as the Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson and Volkswagen Tiguan. The main advantage Japanese crossover is suspension comfort and interior ergonomics. It soaks up bumps more smoothly than its German rival and offers more rear-seat space than its Korean counterparts.
| Model | Engine (base) | Drive | Price (average market) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Qashqai 2.0 | 144 hp | 4WD | 1 800 000 ₽ |
| Kia Sportage 2.0 | 150 hp | 4WD | 1 900 000 ₽ |
| Hyundai Tucson 2.0 | 150 hp | 4WD | 1 950 000 ₽ |
| VW Tiguan 1.4 TSI | 150 hp | 4WD | 2 100 000 ₽ |
Pricing policy Nissan often proves more attractive by offering more equipment for the same money. However, when it comes to secondary market liquidity, German and Korean brands may have a slight advantage. However, Qashqai maintains a decent price due to its reliability and popularity.
The main advantage of the Qashqai 2+ is its perfect balance of price, comfort and reliability, making it one of the best choices in its class for family use.
Tuning and improvements
Owners often seek to improve the appearance and performance of their car. A popular direction is installation engine protection and power thresholds. This is especially true for those who travel outside the city and encounter off-road conditions. Metal protection saves the crankcase from impacts on stones and curbs.
Visual improvements include installing spoilers, tinting windows and replacing standard wheels with larger ones. However, it is worth remembering that increasing the diameter of the wheels can negatively affect the speedometer readings and the operation of the stability control system. Standard wheels usually have the optimal size to ensure comfort and durability of the suspension.
Internal tuning often comes down to installing additional equipment: heated seats, if it is not included in the base, or an improved audio system. The installation of parking sensors and rear view cameras with an extended view is also popular. These improvements significantly improve safety and comfort when parking in tight urban conditions.
How to choose engine protection?
The ideal option is steel protection with a thickness of 3 mm. Aluminum protection is lighter, but can be deformed under a strong impact. Be sure to check the presence of technological holes for draining oil and access to filters.
Results: is it worth buying?
Nissan Qashqai 2+ remains one of the smartest choices on the used crossover market. Its reliability, especially in the version with a naturally aspirated engine, has been tested by time and thousands of kilometers. Comfort The ride and interior practicality make it a great car for families.
When purchasing, it is important to carefully check the service history and condition of the variator. If you find a copy that has been serviced by an authorized dealer or a trusted service center, you will receive a reliable assistant for many years. The main rule when purchasing is to never skimp on diagnostics before the transaction.
Ultimately, this car offers what most drivers really want: safety, predictability and no surprises. It is not a leader in every single category, but it is an excellent compromise that will satisfy most of the requirements of the modern car enthusiast.
⚠️ Attention: Before purchasing, be sure to conduct computer diagnostics. Many hidden errors may not be visible visually, but will significantly reduce the cost of repairs in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What mileage is considered critical for a Qashqai CVT?
Usually, without problems, the variator lasts up to 150-180 thousand kilometers, subject to regular oil changes. After this, the resource begins to decline rapidly, and the risk of breakdown increases.
Is it possible to drive the Qashqai 2+ on bad roads?
Yes, the car has sufficient ground clearance (205 mm), but the suspension is designed more for moderate off-road use than for serious off-road use. It is not suitable for extreme conditions.
How many liters of oil are in a 2.0 engine?
To change the oil in a 2.0 (MR20) engine, about 4.5-5 liters are required. The exact volume depends on the type of replacement and the condition of the engine, so it is better to buy 5 liters with a reserve.
How is Qashqai 2 different from Qashqai 2+?
Qashqai 2+ is a restyled version with an updated design, an improved multimedia system and improved security systems. Technically the differences are minimal.
What is the fuel consumption of a 2.0 engine in the city?
In the urban cycle, actual consumption is 10-12 liters per 100 km, depending on traffic jams and driving style. On the highway it drops to 7-8 liters.