Crossover Nissan Qashqai the second generation, released in 2014, became a real phenomenon in the European and Russian markets. The car, which replaced the legendary J10 prototype, offered a balanced combination of dynamics, efficiency and modern design, which many competitors adopted over the years. However, time is the best tester, and now owners are sharing real operating experience, revealing both the strengths and hidden shortcomings of the model.
When choosing a used car, it is important to rely not on marketing brochures, but on breakdown statistics and the subjective feelings of real users. Owners Nissan Qashqai II note that the car has become more “adult” and comfortable, but some technical solutions are controversial even years after the start of production. Let's look in detail at what the owners say about power units, chassis and electronics.
Engines and transmission: what to choose and what to avoid
The heart of most copies on the secondary market are gasoline units of the series MR16DDT and H5Ft volume of 1.2 liters, as well as a more powerful 1.6-liter turbo engine. Engine 1.2 DIG-T often criticized due to the risk of timing chain stretching at high mileage, which requires careful attention to service history. Owners with mileage over 100,000 km are often faced with the need to replace the chain, which is a costly repair.
On the other hand, the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine MR20DD is considered more reliable, but its power is 144 hp. may seem insufficient for a heavy crossover during active driving. Transmission represented by a variator Jatco CVT8 causes mixed feelings: on the one hand, it ensures a smooth ride, on the other, it requires strict adherence to the oil change schedule. Ignoring the fluid change interval 60,000 km often leads to early failure of the belt drive.
- 🔧 Regularly check the condition of the timing chain on 1.2 turbo engines after 80,000 km.
- ⛽ For city driving, a 1.2 engine is enough, but for the highway it is better to consider a 2.0 or a 1.6 dCi diesel.
- ⚙️ The variator requires an oil change every 40-50 thousand km, despite statements about the “lifetime” resource.
⚠️ Attention: On 1.2 DIG-T engines, increased oil consumption is often observed due to stuck piston rings. Be sure to check the oil level before each ride.
Diesel versions with motor 1.6 dCi from the Renault-Nissan Alliance have earned a reputation for being economical and high-torque, but their reliability directly depends on the condition of the particulate filter and turbine system. If the car has been driven primarily in city traffic jams, the exhaust cleaning system may require serious cleaning or replacement.
- 1.2 Turbo
- 1.6 Turbo
- 2.0 Aspirated
- 1.6 Diesel
Chassis and handling: comfort or firmness
The CMF-CD platform allowed engineers to improve handling compared to the first generation, making the steering wheel more informative and the suspension more collected. However, many owners complain that the rear suspension is too stiff, especially when the car is empty or when driving on bad roads. Stabilizer struts and rear control arm silent blocks are consumables that require replacement after 60-70 thousand kilometers.
Front suspension type McPherson demonstrates high reliability, but shock absorbers may begin to “sweat” or lose their properties earlier than expected. Owners note that when driving over uneven surfaces, extraneous knocking noises are heard in the cabin, which are often eliminated by replacing the stabilizer bushings or support bearings. The hood damper is also often the source of squeaks and requires lubrication or replacement.
- 🛣️ The rear suspension harshly handles small irregularities, which can tire passengers over long distances.
- 🔩 Stabilizer struts and bushings are the weakest points of the suspension; they are changed frequently and relatively inexpensively.
- 🚗 The steering is precise, but the steering effort can feel too light at high speeds.
⚠️ Attention: When buying a car, be sure to check the condition of the rear arms for cracks in the places where they are attached to the body, this is a known problem with early batches.
☑️ Check the suspension before purchasing
Interior and ergonomics: what's inside
Salon Nissan Qashqai the second generation is designed in a minimalist style, which many find boring, but functional. The quality of finishing materials is excellent: soft plastic on the dashboard, pleasant tactile leather on the steering wheel and seats. However, the ergonomics of the multimedia system Connect Causes criticism: the screen is often too low, which forces the driver to take his eyes off the road.
Zero Gravity seats provide excellent back support, but some drivers taller than 185 cm experience a lack of reach and seat cushion length. The climate control works effectively, but its control buttons are poorly located and can be accidentally touched when switching the power window operating modes. The rear row of seats offers plenty of legroom, but the high floor tunnel is a hindrance for the middle passenger.
Noise insulation at the level of the middle segment: on the highway at speed 110 km/h The cabin is quiet, but at speeds above 130 km/h aerodynamic noise from the pillars and mirrors begins to be clearly heard. Many owners complain about squeaking plastic in the area of the center console and door panels, especially in the cold season. Eliminating squeaks often requires the installation of additional soundproofing materials.
What do they say about the trunk?
The trunk volume is 430 liters, which is enough for a family of 3-4 people. With the seats folded down, the volume increases to 1585 liters. However, the shape of the opening is not the most convenient for loading tall items, and the trunk floor is quite high.
Typical breakdowns and problems of electronics
The electronic filling of the crossover, despite its modernity, has its own “childhood diseases”. A common problem is the failure of tire pressure sensors, which lose communication with the control unit or require reflashing. Owners are also faced with a freezing multimedia system that does not respond to presses, requiring a reboot by removing the fuse.
Keyless Entry System Keyless may fail at low temperatures or when the battery in the key is low, which makes it impossible to start the engine without using a mechanical key. Heated and power rearview mirrors sometimes stop folding or rotating, indicating a problem with the motors or wiring. The windshield often gets chipped due to its low setting and lack of special protection against stones.
- 📡 Tire pressure sensors (TPMS) often lose charge or fail, requiring replacement of the entire set.
- 🔑 The keyless entry control unit may malfunction, especially in humid weather.
- 💡 Side light bulbs burn out quite often, especially in the rear lights.
⚠️ Attention: If the car does not start with the button, check the battery in the key and try to start it by pressing the key fob against the start button (emergency start function).
If the multimedia freezes, do not try to reflash it yourself. It's best to locate the fuse labeled "RADIO" or "NAV" in the fuse box and pull it out for 1 minute to reset the system.
Fuel consumption and real efficiency
Fuel consumption figures declared by the manufacturer often diverge from reality, especially in dense city traffic. For engine 1.2 DIG-T average consumption in the city is about 8.5–9.5 liters per 100 km, and on the highway at speed 90-100 km/h you can keep within 6.0–6.5 liters. However, with aggressive driving or using the air conditioning, the numbers can rise to 10–11 liters.
The more powerful 2.0-liter engine consumes significantly more: in the city it easily “eats” 11–12 liters, and on the highway it stays around 7.5–8.0 liters. The 1.6 dCi diesel version performs better, consuming around 5.5–6.0 liters on the combined cycle, making it an ideal choice for those who drive a lot. It is important to consider that the quality of fuel in some regions can affect the operation of turbo engines and increase consumption.
| Engine | City (l/100km) | Route (l/100km) | Mixed cycle |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2 DIG-T (115 hp) | 8.5 – 9.5 | 6.0 – 6.5 | 7.2 – 7.8 |
| 2.0 (144 hp) | 11.0 – 12.0 | 7.5 – 8.0 | 9.0 – 9.5 |
| 1.6 dCi (130 hp) | 6.5 – 7.0 | 4.8 – 5.2 | 5.5 – 6.0 |
Actual fuel consumption depends greatly on driving style. For 1.2 and 1.6 turbo engines, it is critical to warm up the engine in winter to avoid increased wear and overconsumption.
Conclusions: is Nissan Qashqai 2 worth buying?
To summarize, we can say that Nissan Qashqai the second generation remains one of the most balanced crossovers in its class. It offers excellent design, a comfortable fit and a sufficient level of equipment. However, a potential buyer should pay close attention to the service history, especially in terms of changing the oil in the variator and checking the condition of the timing chain on turbo engines.
The car is suitable for those who are looking for a reliable city crossover for the family and are willing to put up with some shortcomings in ergonomics and the rigidity of the rear suspension. It is critical to avoid cars with over 150,000 km on the clock without a proven history of chain and CVT oil changes. With proper care, this car can last a long time, delighting the owner with efficiency and dynamics.
- ✅ Pros: Modern design, comfortable seats, good noise insulation on the highway, affordable maintenance costs.
- ❌ Cons: Stiff rear suspension, risk of problems with the variator if maintenance is ignored, weak chain on the 1.2 engine.
- 💡 Recommendation: Look for a version with a 1.6 dCi engine for economy or 2.0 for reliability, but check the service history of the variator.
Which engine is the most reliable in the Qashqai 2?
The most reliable is the 2.0 liter naturally aspirated engine (MR20DD). It is simpler in design than turbo engines and does not have timing chain problems to the same extent as the 1.2 DIG-T. However, he is more gluttonous.
How often should I change the oil in a Jatco CVT?
Despite the manufacturer’s statements about “lifelong” oil, experts and owners recommend a complete oil change in the variator every 60,000 km. This will extend the life of the transmission.
What is the real fuel consumption of the diesel version?
The 1.6 dCi diesel engine consumes about 5.5–6.0 liters per 100 km in the combined cycle. In the city, consumption rarely exceeds 7.0 liters, which makes it the most economical option.
Is it worth getting the version with all-wheel drive?
All-wheel drive on the Qashqai is activated automatically and is useful for snow or light off-roading. However, it increases fuel consumption and design complexity. Front-wheel drive is sufficient for the city.