In 2016 Nissan Qashqai has undergone a major refresh that makes it one of the most compelling offerings on the compact crossover market. This generation, known as the J11, brought with it not only an updated design, but also significant improvements in terms of comfort and technology. If you are considering purchasing this car, it is important to understand exactly what changes were made to the model for this particular model year.
Many buyers pay attention to the balance between dynamics and efficiency that the engineers managed to achieve. Hybrid system or classic gasoline units - the choice is huge, but each option has its own nuances. In this review, we will look at all the key aspects of operation so that you can make an informed decision before visiting a car dealership or used car market.
Design and exterior: evolution of style
The appearance of the updated crossover has become more aggressive and modern. The body lines have become clearer, and the radiator grille has received the signature “V-motion” shape, which is now the hallmark of the brand. The headlights became narrower and more expressive, which added a sporty character to the car. The rear has also undergone changes: new lights with LED elements make the silhouette recognizable even in the dark.
The ground clearance remained at 205 mm, which provides decent cross-country ability for the city and light off-road. The wheel arches have become more convex, visually widening the track and adding massiveness. It is important to note the quality of painting and assembly of the panels: the gaps are uniform, and the metal is resistant to corrosion, subject to timely care. If you are choosing a color, pay attention to popular options like Gun Metallic or Scarlet Ember.
Sports versions N-Design or Platinum offer unique decorative elements, including 18-inch wheels and black inserts. This allows the owner to personalize their car, making it different from the mass of similar crossovers on the road. Aerodynamics have also been improved, which has a positive effect on cabin noise levels and fuel consumption.
Interior and cabin comfort
Salon Nissan Qashqai 2016 is made in a minimalist style, typical of Japanese cars of this period. The quality of materials is excellent: soft plastic on the dashboard, pleasant-to-touch seat upholstery and high-quality seams. The front seats have excellent lateral support and are adjustable in a variety of ways, including lumbar support. The rear row is spacious enough for two adult passengers, although three will be cramped due to the central tunnel.
The multimedia system with a 7-inch screen supports integration with smartphones via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is a big plus for the modern driver. The instrument panel is informative and easy to read in any lighting. The climate system works efficiently, quickly warming up the interior in winter and cooling it in summer. However, it is worth considering that in basic configurations the materials may be more rigid.
The luggage compartment with a volume of 430 liters allows you to transport a significant amount of cargo. When the rear seats are folded down, space increases to 1,585 liters, making the car practical for family trips. Under the trunk floor there is additional storage space for tools and a spare tire (or spare tire, depending on the configuration). The interior ventilation operates quietly, without creating unnecessary noise at high speeds.
- Basic (XE)
- Medium (Visia)
- Top (Platinum)
- Comfort (Tekna)
Engines and transmission: which choice is better?
The range of powertrains for the 2016 model includes both petrol and diesel options. The most popular gasoline engine is the 1.2-liter turbo unit HR12DDT 115 hp It has good traction at low speeds and moderate fuel consumption. For those who prefer dynamics, a 2.0-liter engine is offered MR20 with a power of 144 hp, which provides confident acceleration and high elasticity.
Diesel versions are equipped with a 1.5-liter engine K9K 110 hp or 1.6 liter R9M with two turbines and 130 hp. Diesels are ideal for those who do a lot of highway driving as they are economical and have high torque. The transmission can be either manual or variable speed (CVT) Xtronic. The CVT provides a smooth ride, but requires special attention to maintenance.
- ⚙️ 1.2 DIG-T: Ideal for the city, economical and dynamic in traffic.
- 🛣️ 2.0 MPI: The best choice for the track and lovers of an active driving style.
- 🛢️ 1.6 dCi: Excellent balance of power and fuel efficiency.
The drive can be either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (4x4). The all-wheel drive system engages automatically, distributing torque between the axles depending on road conditions. It does Nissan Qashqai confident in snow and mud, although it is not an SUV in the full sense of the word. It is important to remember that the all-wheel drive system is not designed for serious off-road use.
☑️ What to check when choosing an engine?
Chassis and steering
Suspension Nissan Qashqai configured with an emphasis on comfort. The front MacPherson strut and multi-link rear suspension effectively absorb uneven road surfaces. The steering has an electric booster, which makes the steering light in the city and more informative at high speed. Body roll when cornering is minimal thanks to rigid anti-roll bars.
The braking system includes ventilated discs at the front and conventional discs at the rear. The brakes operate clearly, without failure, which ensures safety during emergency braking. Interior noise insulation is at a good level: only aerodynamic noise and tire hum are heard, the engine is practically inaudible even with active acceleration. This makes trips longer and less tiring for the driver.
⚠️ Attention: The Xtronic variator is sensitive to overheating. When driving in traffic or towing a trailer, be sure to monitor the transmission temperature and do not allow prolonged loads without cooling.
The all-wheel drive system operates discreetly, engaging the rear axle only when necessary. This allows you to save fuel and preserve the life of the units. However, it is worth considering that in deep snow or mud the car may get stuck, since ground clearance and geometric cross-country ability are limited. For winter use, it is highly recommended to install high-quality winter tires.
The 2016 Nissan Qashqai's chassis strikes a balance between comfort and handling, making it an ideal urban crossover capable of handling light off-road conditions.
Safety and driver assistance systems
The car received high marks in Euro NCAP crash tests, scoring 5 stars. Standard equipment includes driver and passenger airbags, as well as side and curtain airbags. Stabilization system VDC and anti-lock braking system ABS work in conjunction with a brake force distribution system EBD. This ensures maximum safety in all driving situations.
Richer trims add blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. A rear view camera with dynamic guidance makes parking much easier. Front and rear parking sensors help avoid collisions with low obstacles. The windshield can be equipped with a system for recognizing road signs and monitoring driver fatigue.
- 🛡️ 7 airbags: Protection for driver, passenger and rear passengers.
- 👁️ Surround camera: Allows you to see the situation around the car on the screen.
- ⚠️ Collision avoidance system: Activates braking when an obstacle is detected.
Isofix child seat anchorages are available in the rear seats, which is important for families with children. Seat belts have pretensioners and force limiters to help minimize injury during an impact. The car body is reinforced in areas subject to the greatest stress in an accident. All this does Nissan Qashqai one of the safest cars in its class.
Hidden security information
In the event of a serious accident, the system automatically cuts off the fuel supply and unlocks the doors to facilitate the evacuation of passengers.
Operation and Maintenance
Service Nissan Qashqai does not require exotic spare parts; most parts are widely available. The maintenance schedule includes changing oil and filters every 15,000 km or once a year. Brake pads and rotors last a long time, but their condition should be checked at every oil change. The timing belt on gasoline engines is changed every 90,000 km, and on diesel engines - more often, depending on operating conditions.
Fuel consumption depends on driving style and engine type. In the city, a 1.2-liter engine consumes about 7-8 liters, and on the highway - 5-6 liters. Diesel versions are even more economical, showing average values of 5-6 liters per 100 km. The variator requires an oil change every 60,000 km to preserve its service life. Ignoring this recommendation may result in costly repairs.
| Parameter | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Engine oil | 0W-20 or 5W-30 (synthetic) |
| Oil volume | 4.2 liters |
| Brake fluid | DOT 4 |
| Antifreeze | Low freezing (up to -40°C) |
| Tires (standard) | 215/65 R16 or 215/60 R17 |
The car body requires regular washing and treatment with anti-corrosion compounds, especially in regions with aggressive chemicals on the roads. The cabin filter should be changed every 15,000 km to ensure clean air in the cabin. The battery usually lasts 4-5 years, but its condition should be checked before the start of the winter season. Spark plugs on gasoline engines are changed every 45,000 km.
When purchasing a used 2016 Nissan Qashqai, be sure to check the CVT service history. Lack of records of changing the oil in the gearbox is a reason for bargaining or refusal to purchase.
Pros and cons of the model
To summarize, we can highlight a number of undeniable advantages Nissan Qashqai 2016. This is an excellent design, a comfortable interior, modern multimedia systems and a high level of safety. The car is well suited for urban environments and country trips. The engines are reliable, subject to maintenance regulations, and fuel consumption is economical.
However, there are also disadvantages that you need to be aware of. The Xtronic CVT requires careful handling and regular maintenance. The suspension may seem too soft for sports driving enthusiasts. Basic trim levels lack a number of useful options, such as a heated steering wheel or rain sensors. It is also worth considering that the cost of spare parts for Japanese brands is higher than for some competitors.
- ✅ Pros: Reliable engines, comfortable suspension, spacious interior, high level of safety.
- ❌ Cons: Demanding variator, average sound insulation at high speeds, high cost of some spare parts.
Choice Nissan Qashqai The 2016 model is a smart choice for those looking for a practical and stylish crossover. The main thing is to find a copy with a transparent service history and without hidden defects. Pay special attention to the condition of the variator and turbine, as their repair can be very expensive. With the right approach, this car will serve you for many years, giving you driving pleasure.
Key takeaway: The 2016 Nissan Qashqai is an excellent balance of price, quality and comfort, but its reliability is directly dependent on the service history of the CVT and engine.
Which engine is more reliable: 1.2 turbo or 2.0 naturally aspirated?
Both engines have their own characteristics. The 1.2-liter turbo engine is more economical and dynamic in the city, but requires high-quality fuel and oil. The 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine is simpler in design and less demanding on maintenance, but loses in dynamics and fuel consumption. The choice depends on your priorities.
Is it necessary to warm up the engine in winter?
Modern engines do not require long warm-up periods. 1-2 minutes are enough to stabilize the oil pressure, after which you can start driving in a gentle mode. This allows the engine to warm up faster and reduces harmful emissions.
How often do you change the oil in the variator?
Official regulations may indicate a “maintenance-free” variator, but in practice it is recommended to change the oil every 60,000 km. This will significantly extend the life of the gearbox and prevent kicking and jerking.
Is the 2016 Nissan Qashqai suitable for winter use?
Yes, the car is perfect for winter, provided that high-quality winter tires are installed. All-wheel drive versions provide additional stability on snow and ice. It is important to monitor the condition of the battery and heating system.
What is the fuel consumption of the Nissan Qashqai 2016 in the city?
Fuel consumption depends on the engine and operating conditions. For a 1.2-liter engine it is 7-8 liters per 100 km, for a 2.0-liter engine it is 9-10 liters. Diesel versions consume about 6-7 liters in the urban cycle.