Nissan Qashqai 2 (J11): an honest crossover review with expert assessment

Second Nissan Qashqai (factory designation J11) has become a real bestseller on the global market, confirming its status as one of the most popular compact crossovers. Released in 2014, it replaced the first generation, while retaining all the key advantages: practicality, reliability and balanced ride. But what has changed? Is it worth buying Qashqai 2 today, almost a decade after debut?

This model was the first built on a modular platform Renault-Nissan CMF, which improved handling and comfort. In Russia, the crossover was offered with gasoline engines 1.2 DIG-T (115 hp), 1.6 (117 hp) and 2.0 (144 hp), as well as diesel 1.5 dCi (110 hp) for the European market. But the main thing is Qashqai J11 received a completely updated design, a more spacious interior and an expanded list of options, including a system Around View Monitor and adaptive cruise control.

In this review we will look at all key aspects: from technical characteristics to typical problems faced by owners. We’ll also give practical advice on choosing a used vehicle and tell you what to look for when inspecting it. If you are considering Nissan Qashqai 2 as your next car, this article will help you make an informed decision.

Technical characteristics of Nissan Qashqai J11: engines, gearboxes, suspension

Under the hood Second generation Qashqai Four types of engines were installed, but only gasoline versions were officially supplied to Russia. Basic 1.2 DIG-T (115 hp) - turbocharged unit with direct injection, developed in conjunction with Mercedes-Benz. It is economical (consumption ~6.5 l/100 km), but requires high-quality fuel and regular oil changes. Atmospheric is considered more reliable 1.6 (117 hp), although less dynamic.

Flagship 2.0 (144 hp) - the choice of those who value power reserves for overtaking and driving on the highway. However, I often went with him CVT Xtronic, which raises the most questions among buyers. Mechanical 6-speed manual more reliable, but less common. Suspension - classic McPherson front and multi-lever rear, which provides good handling, but is sensitive to the quality of the roads.

• 🔧 Engines: 1.2T (115 hp), 1.6 (117 hp), 2.0 (144 hp), 1.5 dCi (110 hp - for Europe)
• ⚙️ Boxes: 6-speed manual transmission, Xtronic CVT, 6-automatic transmission (rare)
• 🛣️ Drive: front or full ALL-MODE 4x4-i with Haldex coupling
• 🔋 Fuel consumption: from 6.2 to 8.5 l/100 km (depending on the engine and gearbox)

Important: the Xtronic variator on the 2.0 engine requires an oil change every 60,000 km, otherwise the risk of overheating and failure increases 3 times. It is also worth checking the condition of the timing chain on the 1.2T - its resource is ~150,000 km, but with aggressive driving it can stretch out earlier.

Options and equipment: what the official dealer offered

In Russia Nissan Qashqai J11 sold in five trim levels: Visia, Acenta, N-Connecta, Tekna And Tekna+. Basic Visia was extremely meager: air conditioning, one airbag, steel wheels and fabric upholstery. But already in Acenta appeared climate control, rear view camera and LED daytime running lights.

Top versions Tekna And Tekna+ equipped with leather interior, panoramic roof, system Bose, adaptive cruise and Around View Monitor (360° camera). Separately, it is worth noting the option ProPilot - a semi-autonomous assistant that appeared after the 2017 restyling. He knows how to keep a lane, regulate speed and even brake in traffic jams.

Equipment	Engine	Box	New price (2014-2021), rub.	Key options
Visia	1.6, 2.0	Manual transmission/variator	from 999 000	Air conditioning, 1 airbag, steel wheels
Acenta	1.2T, 1.6, 2.0	Manual transmission/variator	from 1,150,000	Climate control, rear view camera, LED DRL
N-Connecta	1.2T, 2.0	CVT	from 1,350,000	Multimedia with navigation, parking sensors, leather steering wheel
Tekna	2.0	CVT	from 1,600,000	Leather, panoramic roof, Bose, adaptive cruise

⚠️ Attention: In complete sets Visia And Acenta there was no system until 2016 ESP in the basic configuration - it was installed only upon request. This is critical for safety, especially in winter.

Interior and ergonomics: convenience for the driver and passengers

Interior Qashqai J11 has become noticeably more spacious compared to the first generation. The back row now comfortably seats three adults, and the trunk has grown to 430 liters (versus 385 liters for its predecessor). Finishing materials in basic versions are plastic, but in Tekna soft plastic and leather upholstery appear.

The steering wheel is adjustable for reach and tilt, and the driver's seat (in top versions) has an electric drive and position memory. Multimedia system NissanConnect with 7 inch touch screen supports Apple CarPlay And Android Auto, but only after restyling in 2017. Before this, owners had to make do with outdated navigation.

• 🪑 Landing: tall, like a crossover, but not too “off-road”
• 📱 Multimedia: before 2017 - weak, after - with support for smartphones
• 🧳 Trunk: 430 l, folds down to 1585 l (seats folded)
• 🔊 Sound: system Bose in Tekna - one of the best in the class

Typical problems and weaknesses: what to look for when buying

Despite the reliability Qashqai J11 has several “diseases” that every potential buyer should be aware of. The main one is CVT Xtronic. If the oil is not changed on time (every 60,000 km), it begins to twitch, make a hum and ultimately requires expensive repairs. Also often fails solenoid in the valve body, which leads to jerking when switching.

Another common problem is turbine 1.2 DIG-T. When using low-quality oil or fuel, it becomes clogged with carbon deposits, which leads to loss of power and increased fuel consumption. The timing chain on this engine also requires attention: its stretching leads to an error P0016 and unstable engine operation.

• 🚗 Suspension: knocking noises in the front struts (shock absorbers and support bearings) after 80,000 km
• 🔥 Electrical: problems with the climate control control unit (symptom - spontaneous turning on of the stove)
• 🛑 Brakes: squeaking of the front pads (solved by replacing them with non-original ones) Ferodo or TRW)
• 💡 Light: dim headlights (polishing or replacing with LED modules)

⚠️ Attention: When inspecting a used Qashqai J11 Be sure to check the service history of the CVT. If the previous owner did not change the oil, be prepared for repairs costing 150,000–200,000 rubles.

Restyling 2017: what has changed

In 2017 Nissan Qashqai J11 underwent restyling, which affected both the appearance and the technical part. The most noticeable changes:

• 👀 Design: new grille style V-Motion, LED headlights, updated bumpers
• 📱 Multimedia: support Apple CarPlay And Android Auto, faster processor
• 🚗 Security: system ProPilot (semi-autonomous driving), improved parking sensors
• ⚙️ Technique: modified CVT with better heat transfer, new diesel particulate filter

After restyling, the sound insulation of the interior was also improved and new body colors appeared, including the popular Energy Orange. However, the main technical problems (variator, turbine) remained the same.

Learn more about ProPilot

ProPilot is a suite of driver assists that includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping and automatic braking. The system only works at speeds up to 130 km/h and requires the driver's hands to remain on the steering wheel (there is a force sensor). In traffic jams, it is capable of completely stopping the car and moving off on its own, but does not replace a full-fledged autopilot.

Owner reviews: real operating experience

According to owner reviews, Nissan Qashqai J11 — a reliable car, but with nuances. Those who bought new cars from official dealers and followed the maintenance regulations note minimal problems even after 150,000 km. However, on the secondary market there are often examples with a “dead” variator or a faulty turbine.

Among the advantages most often mentioned are:

• ✅ Comfortable suspension (swallows potholes well)
• ✅ Spacious interior and large trunk
• ✅ Reliable 1.6-liter engine (subject to high-quality oil)
• ✅ Good handling for a crossover

Of the minuses:

• ❌ Expensive variator maintenance
• ❌ Poor noise insulation at high speeds (before restyling)
• ❌ Problems with electronics (especially in early versions)

Many owners recommend taking versions with manual transmission or carefully check the service history of the CVT. It is also advised to avoid 1.2 DIG-T at high mileage - its repair is more expensive than that of naturally aspirated engines.

Is it worth buying a Nissan Qashqai J11 today?

If you need reliable family crossover with a spacious interior and good handling, Qashqai J11 remains a valid choice. However, when purchasing on the secondary market you should:

1. Check service history (especially changing the oil in the variator).
2. Give preference 1.6 or 2.0 with mechanics, if you are afraid of problems with the variator.
3. Pay attention to complete set — basic versions lack important security systems.
4. Test turbine (at 1.2T) and suspension for knocking noises.

Used prices Qashqai J11 (2014–2017) today start from 800,000 rubles for basic versions with a mileage of 100,000+ km. Restyled models (2017–2021) in good condition cost from 1.2 million rubles. If your budget allows, it is better to consider more recent specimens - they are devoid of most “childhood diseases”.

⚠️ Attention: There are a lot of “drowned” and damaged cars on the market after 2017 (due to the hurricane in Sochi). Before purchasing, be sure to check the car through traffic police and services like Autocode or CarVertical.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Which Qashqai J11 engine is the most reliable?

Considered the most reliable atmospheric 1.6 (117 hp). It is easier to maintain, does not have a turbine and a timing chain (there is a belt that changes every 120,000 km). 2.0 is also good, but more often it comes with a CVT, which adds risks. 1.2 DIG-T more economical, but requires more careful care.

How long does the CVT on the Qashqai J11 last?

CVT resource Xtronic amounts to 150,000–200,000 km, but only on condition regular oil changes every 60,000 km. If you ignore this rule, the box may fail after 100,000 km. The cost of repairs is from 100,000 rubles.

What is the most optimal configuration of the Qashqai J11?

The best balance of price and equipment - Acenta or N-Connecta. They have climate control, a rear view camera and multimedia, but the price is lower than Tekna. If you need all-wheel drive, look for 2.0 + CVT + ALL-MODE 4x4-i.

Is it possible to use gas on the Qashqai J11?

Install HBO on 1.2 DIG-T not recommended — turbocharged engines do not handle gas well. On 1.6 And 2.0 possible, but only from trusted installers with ECU settings. The CVT does not suffer from gas, but the engine life may be reduced.

What is the real fuel consumption of the Qashqai J11?

Actual consumption depends on the engine and driving style:

• 1.2 DIG-T: 7.5–9 l/100 km (city), 5.5–6.5 l (highway)
• 1.6: 9–11 l (city), 6–7 l (highway)
• 2.0: 11–13 l (city), 7–8.5 l (highway)

The variator adds ~0.5–1 liters to consumption compared to a manual transmission.