Crossover Nissan Qashqai The second generation became a real phenomenon on the market, offering buyers the perfect balance between urban comfort and off-road ambitions. Many car owners choose this car based on its modern design and thoughtful interior, but before purchasing, you need to carefully weigh all the pros and cons.
Owners often praise suspension comfort and interior ergonomics, but at the same time they face certain difficulties when servicing and choosing equipment. In this article, we will analyze in detail the strengths and weaknesses of the model so that you can make an informed decision.
Exterior and design: style versus practicality
Appearance Nissan Qashqai the second generation (J11) is made in the corporate V-motion style, which makes it recognizable in traffic. The designers did their best, creating an aggressive front bumper and distinctive optics that look modern even years after release.
However, style comes at a price. The low-slung front bumper makes the car vulnerable to curbs and speed bumps. You will have to be extremely careful when parking so as not to damage the expensive plastic.
In addition, body parts require careful handling. paintwork (paint) is not highly resistant to chips, and replacing headlights can hit the budget, since they often come complete with sensors.
- 🚗 Modern and aggressive design that makes the car stand out in traffic
- 🛡️ Low ground clearance requires caution when driving on bad roads
- 💸 High cost of original body parts and optics
Interior decoration and ergonomics of the cabin
Salon Nissan Qashqai amazes with attention to detail and convenient location of controls. A driver's seat with pronounced lateral support and a multimedia system with an intuitive interface create the feeling of a premium product. Ergonomics at a height: all buttons are at hand, and visibility through wide windows eliminates blind spots.
However, the use of soft plastic on the dashboard is not justified everywhere. In some configurations there are hard inserts, which can begin to creak during prolonged use. It's also worth noting that the rear row of seats isn't the most spacious for tall passengers.
You need to pay attention to the condition Zero Gravity seats. They are really comfortable for long trips, but the fabric upholstery gets dirty quickly, and the leather is prone to abrasion on the sides with active use.
- 💺 Comfortable front seats with excellent back support
- 📱 Modern multimedia system with navigation support
- 🔊 Extraneous sounds (creaks) in the interior plastic are possible over time
Engines and transmission: the heart of the car
Under the hood Nissan Qashqai Most often, time-tested units are hidden. The 2.0-liter petrol engine (MR20) is reliable and has enough power for confident acceleration. The 1.6 dCi diesel variant also performs well, offering high torque and efficiency.
However, the main headache for owners is the variator Jatco. This unit is sensitive to overheating and requires regular oil changes. CVT does not like sudden starts and towing trailers, which imposes certain restrictions on the driving style.
It must be remembered that the resource of the variator directly depends on driving style and timely maintenance. Ignoring routine maintenance can lead to expensive repairs or complete replacement of the unit, which is a critical factor when purchasing a used unit.
It is important to check the vehicle's service history to ensure there are no transmission problems. It is also worth paying attention to the condition timing chains for gasoline engines, which can stretch to 150 thousand kilometers.
- ⛽ Reliable 2.0 petrol engine with a good power reserve
- 🔧 The variator requires frequent oil changes and careful handling
- ⚙️ A diesel engine requires high-quality diesel fuel and fuel injection pump maintenance
- Gasoline 2.0
- Diesel 1.6
- Hybrid
- Doesn't matter
Chassis and handling
Suspension Nissan Qashqai tuned for comfort, gently swallowing potholes and uneven road surfaces. Owners often note that the car behaves like a real sofa on wheels, which is ideal for urban conditions and long journeys along the highway.
On the other hand, such softness affects handling in corners. The body has noticeable roll, which does not allow you to drive the car aggressively. Steering may feel too easy, not giving clear feedback on road conditions.
You should check the condition silent blocks and suspension arms, since they are consumables and require replacement every 60-80 thousand kilometers. Also pay attention to the stabilizer links, which often do not last long.
- 🛣️ Excellent comfort on rough roads and speed bumps
- 🎢 Noticeable body roll in corners reduces dynamism
- 🔩 Suspension consumables require regular replacement
⚠️ Attention: When buying a used car, be sure to diagnose the variator on a stand to eliminate hidden defects in the torque converter and solenoids.
Reliability and typical problems
Despite the overall reliability, Nissan Qashqai has a number of characteristic “sores” that you need to know about. Electrical problems can manifest themselves in the operation of parking sensors or a multimedia system, which sometimes freeze for no apparent reason.
Body elements require attention to anti-corrosion treatment, especially in regions with aggressive winter salt. Thresholds and the arches can begin to rust already after 5-7 years of operation if the factory protection was violated during repairs or was simply of poor quality.
You need to regularly check the coolant level and the condition of the radiator pipes. Some owners experience cracks in the plastic connections of the cooling system, which can lead to engine overheating.
You should also pay attention to the operation of the air conditioning system. The compressor may begin to make noise or lose performance, and replacing freon and oil does not always solve the problem completely.
☑️ Checklist before purchasing
What to do if the variator overheats?
If the variator overheating lamp comes on, you must stop immediately and turn off the engine. Continuing to drive can lead to irreversible damage to the clutches and failure of the unit. Let the car cool and check the transmission oil level.
Operating costs and maintenance
Maintenance cost Nissan Qashqai is at the average level for its class. Spare parts for popular units (engine, suspension) are available, but original body parts and electronic components can be very expensive.
Fuel consumption for the gasoline version with a CVT in the city is about 10-12 liters, which is the norm for a crossover in this class. The diesel version is more economical, showing 6-7 liters per 100 km, but requires higher quality fuel.
You need to budget for scheduled maintenance, which includes changing engine oil, filters and, critically, oil in the variator. Ignoring this procedure shortens the life of the gearbox significantly.
It is also worth considering the cost of insurance and tax, which depend on engine power and region of registration. For diesel versions, the tax may be lower, but insurance is often more expensive due to the cost of repairs.
- 💰 Average cost of spare parts for chassis and engine
- 🛢️ High price of original variator oil
- 🚗 Moderate fuel consumption with a calm driving style
Before purchasing CVT oil, be sure to check its NS-2 or NS-3 specification, as using the wrong fluid will lead to rapid wear of the unit.
Comparison table of engine characteristics
For clarity, let’s compare the main parameters of the available power units. The choice depends on your priorities: dynamics, efficiency or environmental friendliness.
| Engine | Volume (l) | Power (hp) | Acceleration 0-100 km/h (sec) | Consumption (mixed, l/100km) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gasoline MR20 | 2.0 | 144 | 10.4 | 7.8 |
| Diesel dCi | 1.6 | 130 | 10.9 | 5.4 |
| Gasoline DIG-T | 1.2 | 115 | 11.2 | 6.4 |
| e-Power plug-in hybrid | 1.5 | 143 (el.) | 9.9 | 1.6 (petrol) |
⚠️ Attention: A unique feature of the e-Power hybrid version is that the gasoline engine works solely as a generator for the electric motor, without directly transmitting torque to the wheels.
Final recommendations for choosing
Choosing Nissan Qashqai, you get a balanced car for the city and the highway that offers excellent comfort and modern design. However, to avoid problems, it is necessary to carefully check the technical condition, especially the transmission and suspension.
If you plan on active driving or towing a trailer, it is worth considering alternatives with a classic automatic transmission or all-wheel drive with differential lock. For a quiet city ride variator will fit perfectly.
You need to be prepared for the fact that saving on maintenance can result in large expenses in the future. Regular diagnostics and the use of high-quality materials are the key to the long life of your crossover.
The main conclusion: the Nissan Qashqai is an excellent choice for the family and the city, but requires a responsible attitude to servicing the CVT and checking the service history before purchasing.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Which engine is more reliable: gasoline or diesel?
Both engines are considered reliable if maintained regularly. Gasoline engine MR20 easier to repair and less demanding on fuel, while diesel dCi more economical, but sensitive to the quality of diesel fuel and requires replacement of the particulate filter.
How often do you need to change the oil in the variator?
It is recommended to carry out a complete or partial oil change in the variator every 40-50 thousand kilometers. Ignoring this rule can lead to overheating and failure of the unit.
Is all-wheel drive on the Qashqai 2 reliable?
All-wheel drive based on the Eaton clutch is reliable under moderate loads. However, it is not intended for serious off-roading and long-term towing. The clutch may overheat when actively driving in mud or snow.
Is the body of the Nissan Qashqai rotting badly?
The body is galvanized, but is not ideal. If there are chips and there is no anti-corrosion agent, corrosion may appear on the sills, arches and bottom after 5-7 years of operation in an aggressive environment.