Crossover Nissan Qashqai For more than 15 years, it has remained one of the most popular cars in its class, and its thoughtful interior plays no small role in this. Photos of the salon Nissan Qashqai 2023-2026 show how the Japanese brand combines practicality, modern technology and premium materials even in base trim levels. In this article we will look at all key interior elements - from seat trim to the multimedia system, - and we will also show what the interior looks like in different versions: from the affordable Visia to top Tekna+.
We will pay special attention unique solutions Qashqai J12 (third generation), which distinguish it favorably from its competitors: for example, seamless dual screen display, adaptive lighting and innovative climate control system ProPILOT Climate. If you choose between Qashqai And Toyota RAV4 or Hyundai Tucson, these photos and descriptions will help you make an informed choice.
Photos of the Nissan Qashqai J12 (2026) interior: general view and ergonomics
Third generation Nissan Qashqai (index J12) debuted in 2021, but even after 3 years its interior looks fresh. The main changes affected:
- 🔹 Digital dashboard - now a 12.3-inch screen with customizable themes (including sports mode).
- 🔹 Central display - 9-inch touch screen (in top versions - 10.8 inches) with support Apple CarPlay And Android Auto.
- 🔹 Rulya — three-spoke, heated and integrated control buttons for adaptive cruise control.
- 🔹 Central tunnel — now with wireless charging for smartphones and an enlarged armrest.
The photo below shows how seamlessly they fit in double screens into the overall concept of the salon. It is important to note that even in the basic configuration Visia soft plastic is used on the dashboard, and not hard, like many competitors. However faux leather appears on the steering wheel and gear lever only from version Acenta.
- Digital dashboard
- Central display
- Interior lighting
- Seat ergonomics
- Steering wheel design
One of the key advantages of ergonomics is Convenient location of climate control buttons under the central screen. Unlike Volkswagen Tiguan, where climate control is hidden in the menu, physical temperature and ventilation controllers are used here. This will be especially appreciated by those who do not like to be distracted from the road.
Finishing materials: what to choose - fabric, leather or Alcantara?
Depending on the configuration Nissan Qashqai offers three main types of interior trim:
| Equipment | Seat material | Dash/door trim | Additional options |
|---|---|---|---|
Visia |
Fabric "Black" or "Grey" | Soft plastic + aluminum inserts | — |
Acenta |
Fabric + PU leather | Soft plastic with stitching | Heated front seats |
N-Connecta |
Faux leather "Premium" | Soft plastic + decorative inserts | Electric driver's seat |
Tekna/Tekna+ |
Leather Nappa + Alcantara (optional) | Soft plastic + wooden inserts | Ventilation, massage, position memory |
The most practical option is faux leather version N-Connecta. It is resistant to abrasion, easy to clean and visually almost indistinguishable from natural material. But Alcantara (only available in Tekna+) requires careful care: it cannot be cleaned with aggressive agents, and it quickly gets dirty from jeans.
⚠️ Attention: If you choose Qashqai with light interior trim (for example, "Ivory White"), please note that the fabric seats in the version Visia can quickly become dirty. In this case, it is better to pay extra for artificial leather or install covers.
Interesting solution - decorative wood inserts in top versions. They are made of plastic with a texture that imitates natural wood and look quite premium. However, some owners note that over time, these inserts may begin to creak when the interior heats up in the sun.
Photo of the front panel: dashboard and multimedia
Main difference Qashqai J12 from the previous generation (J11) is fully digital dashboard. In the basic configuration it has a diagonal of 7 inches, but in the version Acenta its size increases to 12.3 inches. The photo below shows what it looks like sport mode with red backlight and central tachometer:
Central media screen in Qashqai runs on the platform NissanConnect with support wireless Apple CarPlay (starting from 2023). However, the system has several nuances:
- 🔸 No built-in navigator in basic versions - only mirroring from the phone.
- 🔸 Voice control works only in English (even in Russian versions).
- 🔸 Screen response Sometimes it slows down when quickly switching between menus.
One of the most useful features is head-up display (HUD), which is available in configurations Tekna and above. It displays speed, navigation tips and system data ProPILOT right on the windshield. This is especially convenient for those who often drive on the highway.
To speed up multimedia performance, turn off automatic map updates in NissanConnect settings. This will reduce the load on the system and reduce startup delays.
Rear seats and trunk: photos and features
Unlike many competitors, Nissan Qashqai offers one of the most spacious cabins in the class. The distance between the front and rear seats is 895 mm (y Toyota RAV4 - 870 mm), and the ceiling height allows passengers up to 190 cm tall to comfortably accommodate. The photo below shows what the back row looks like in terms of legroom:
The rear seat backs have tilt angle adjustment (in versions N-Connecta and above), as well as three head restraints and seat belts with pretensioners. However, there are also disadvantages:
- 🔸 No heating rear seats even in top trim levels.
- 🔸 Armrest It is not height adjustable and is only suitable for passengers of average height.
- 🔸 Ventilation deflectors located only on the pillars and not in the armrest.
The trunk volume in the standard position is 504 liters (y Hyundai Tucson - 558 l). However, thanks system Divide-N-Hide The space can be flexibly configured: the trunk floor has two levels, and the rear seat backrests fold in a 40:20:40 ratio. The photo below shows the trunk with the floor raised and lowered:
⚠️ Attention: When folding the rear seats, a small threshold is formed between the trunk and the passenger compartment. This can make loading long items (such as skis) difficult.
Interior lighting and ambient lighting: photos and settings
One of the most noticeable features of the interior Qashqai J12 - this is multi-color interior lighting (Ambient Lighting). It is available in configurations N-Connecta and above and includes:
- 🔆 Illumination of the driver’s and front passenger’s feet.
- 🔆 Illumination of the central tunnel and door cards.
- 🔆 Dynamic dashboard lighting (changes color depending on the driving mode).
Total available 10 color themes, including blue, purple, red and green. Color can be selected from the media menu or synchronized with music (function Sound Mood Lighting). The photo below shows the interior with activated blue lighting:
Interestingly, the backlight is automatically responds to door openings: When entering the car, it gradually lights up, creating a “welcome” effect. However, some owners note that in sunny weather the backlight is almost invisible, so it is better to use it in the evening or at night.
How to disable automatic backlighting when opening doors?
Go to Settings → Lighting → Ambient Lighting and deactivate the option "Welcome Light". This will also extend the life of the LEDs.
Comparison of the Qashqai J11 and J12 interior: what has changed?
If you are considering purchasing Nissan Qashqai in the secondary market, it is important to understand the difference between second (J11, 2013–2021) and third (J12, with 2021) generations. Here are the key differences between the interiors:
| Parameter | Qashqai J11 (2013–2021) | Qashqai J12 (2021–present) |
|---|---|---|
| Dashboard | Analog + small screen 5" | Fully digital 7" or 12.3" |
| Central screen | 7" (without sensor in base) | 9" or 10.8" (touch in all versions) |
| Finishing materials | Hard plastic in the base, leather only in the top | Soft plastic even in Visia, Alcantara in Tekna+ |
| Climate control | Manual or single-zone automatic | Dual zone ProPILOT Climate with air quality sensors |
| Interior lighting | Only white lamps | Multicolor Ambient Lighting with 10 modes |
The main advantage of the J12 is digitalization and premium materials even in mid-range trim levels. However J11 in the top version Tekna (2019-2021) may be better value if you don't need the latest technology.
Another important point - noise and vibration insulation. B J12 it is significantly improved: at a speed of 100 km/h the cabin is 3-4 dB quieter compared to J11. This is achieved through thicker door seals and additional layers of insulation in the wheel arches.
Checklist: what to look for when inspecting the salon?
If you are planning a purchase Nissan Qashqai (new or used), be sure to check the following interior elements:
Assess the condition of the seats (are there any scuffs or tears)
Check the operation of all climate control controls
Make sure the interior lighting turns on without delay
Test the multimedia (are there any glitches when connecting the phone)
Check the operation of electric drives (windows, mirrors, seats)
Pay attention to the smell in the cabin (may indicate leaks or mold) -->
Pay special attention condition of the plastic on the dashboard. B J11 (especially before 2017) it could become covered with microcracks over time due to temperature changes. B J12 this problem has been solved through the use of higher quality materials.
It would also be a good idea to check system operation ProPILOT (if it is included in the package). To do this:
- Activate adaptive cruise control at speeds between 30 and 50 km/h.
- Make sure the car brakes and accelerates smoothly.
- Check if it turns on lane keeping when crossing the markings.
If during a test drive you notice that the multimedia system takes a long time to load or freezes, this may indicate problems with the firmware. In this case, ask your dealer for a software update or a price reduction.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Nissan Qashqai interior
Is it possible to install wireless charging in the basic package? Visia?
Yes, but this will require replacing the central armrest and connecting to the on-board network. Officially Nissan does not offer such an upgrade, but many auto repair shops perform this modification for 15–20 thousand rubles. An alternative is to use an external wireless charger that is attached to the ventilation grille.
Which Qashqai trim level has a genuine leather interior?
Genuine leather Nappa available only in top versions Tekna And Tekna+. B N-Connecta artificial leather is used "Premium", which is visually almost the same, but less wear-resistant. If genuine leather is important to you, pay attention to the option "Alcantara + Nappa" in Tekna+.
How to reset NissanConnect multimedia settings to factory settings?
To reset go to Settings → System → Reset data and select "Restore factory settings". Please note that this will delete all saved profiles Bluetooth, favorite radio stations and climate control settings. If the screen does not respond to touches, try holding the system power button for 10 seconds.
Does the Qashqai J12 have a heated steering wheel?
Yes, heated steering wheel is included Tekna And Tekna+. In versions N-Connecta and below this option is not available, but it can be installed additionally (costs about 10 thousand rubles). Heating is activated by a button on the steering wheel or through the climate control menu.
What kind of oil should I put in a Qashqai gearbox with a CVT?
For CVT Xtronic in Qashqai J11/J12 It is recommended to use original oil Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3 (article KE909-99932). Replacement is required every 60 thousand km (or every 4 years). The use of non-original oils can lead to belt slippage and reduce the service life of the box.