Nissan Qashqai 2 restyling (2017–2021): all changes, advantages and hidden disadvantages

Restyling Nissan Qashqai second generation (index J11) has become one of the most anticipated updates in the compact crossover class. Having debuted in 2017, the car received not only a fresh design, but also a number of technical improvements that were supposed to correct the main complaints about the pre-restyling version. However, not all changes turned out to be unequivocally positive - some of the manufacturer’s decisions aroused criticism among owners and experts.

In this article we will analyze in detail what exactly has changed in Qashqai J11 after restyling: from appearance and interior to suspension and electronics. You will find out what engines have become available, how handling has changed, and what you should pay attention to when buying a used one. And also, let’s compare the restyled version with the pre-restyled version and its competitors to understand whether the choice in its favor is justified.

Exterior design: what has changed in the exterior

Most notable update Nissan Qashqai 2 restyling touched the front of the body. The designers completely redesigned the optics, making the headlights narrower and more aggressive, with a characteristic “eyebrow” of LED running lights. The radiator grille has become wider and acquired a V-shape, and the bumper has new air intakes and integrated foglights. The rear part has changed less radically - only LED taillights with a 3D effect and a slightly redesigned bumper have been updated.

Other external changes include:

• 🔹 New alloy wheels - designs appeared 17" And 19" with an original pattern of spokes, which visually “heavier” the car.
• 🔹 Color palette - added shades Energy Orange (bright orange) and Vivid Blue (deep blue), but popular has disappeared Bronze.
• 🔹 Chrome elements — their number was reduced, replacing them with matte blackening (for example, on door moldings).
• 🔹 Aerodynamics — coefficient Cx improved with 0.32 to 0.31 by optimizing the front spoiler.

Interestingly, the side part of the body remained virtually unchanged - this allowed Nissan save on molds, but made the restyling less noticeable in profile. Many owners note that the rear of the car is now easy to confuse with a pre-Restyle one, if you don’t look at the lights.

Salon: comfort vs ergonomics

Inside Qashqai J11 after restyling, changes affected mainly finishing materials and the multimedia system. The steering wheel has a new shape with a thicker rim and modified control keys, and the instrument panel has updated graphics with a color display between the speedometer and tachometer (in top versions). The center console has remained virtually unchanged, but the climate control buttons have become clearer, and the gearshift lever has a chrome surround.

Key interior updates include:

• 🎧 Audio system — appeared in top trim levels Bose Personal with 8 speakers and a subwoofer, and the basic version received support Apple CarPlay And Android Auto (previously available only for an additional fee).
• 🪑 Seats — the front seats received improved lateral support and function Zero Gravity (anatomical shape to reduce fatigue), but the faux leather covering remains the same.
• 📱 Wireless charging — now available in configurations Tekna And Tekna+, but only for smartphones with support Qi.
• 🌡️ Climate control — in versions with automatic transmission, an air quality sensor appeared, but the operating algorithm remained the same (many complain about the slow response to temperature changes).

However, not all changes were successful. For example, in the restyled version, the cup holder in the central tunnel disappeared - instead there was a niche for a smartphone, which turned out to be too small for modern gadgets. Also, some owners note that the new seats have become harder, and the plastic on the door cards is more easily soiled.

What remains unchanged in the cabin?

Have not changed:

- Trunk dimensions (430 l, 1585 l with seats folded)

- Shape of the parking brake lever (still awkward for tall drivers)

- Location of the trunk release button (hidden under the steering wheel, many owners do not know about its existence)

Technical changes: engines, suspension, gearboxes

The most significant technical updates in Nissan Qashqai 2 restyling affected the range of engines and transmissions. The manufacturer abandoned the naturally aspirated gasoline engine 1.6 (HR16DE) in favor of a turbocharged one 1.3 DiG-T (HR13DDT), developed jointly with Mercedes-Benz. This engine became more economical, but caused controversy due to its operating characteristics.

Comparison of engines before and after restyling:

Parameter	1.6 (HR16DE) dorestayl	1.3 DiG-T (HR13DDT) restyling	1.5 dCi (K9K) before/after	2.0 (MR20DD) dorestayl
Power, hp	114	140 / 160*	110 / 115**	144
Torque, Nm	156	240 / 260*	260	200
Consumption (mixed), l/100 km	6.9	5.8 / 6.0*	4.5	7.2
Transmission	Manual6 / automatic transmission	Manual6 / automatic transmission	Manual6 / automatic transmission	Manual transmission6 / CVT
Features	Simple, reliable	Turbocharging, requires 95+ gasoline	The most economical	All wheel drive only

* - versions for 140 and 160 hp.

** — after restyling, diesel power increased by 5 hp.

As for the suspension, its design remains the same (McPherson front, multi-lever rear), but engineers reworked the settings of the shock absorbers and springs. The car has become softer on small bumps, but some owners note increased roll in corners. Also in the restyled version there was a system Intelligent Ride Control, which automatically adjusts the stiffness of the shock absorbers depending on road conditions.

⚠️ Attention: Engine 1.3 DiG-T sensitive to the quality of oil and gasoline. When refueling with 92-grade fuel or using semi-synthetics, problems with the turbine are possible after 60–80 thousand km. Recommended oil change interval - every 10 thousand km (despite the official 15 thousand).

Options and prices: what the official dealer offered

After restyling Nissan Qashqai J11 in Russia it was officially sold in 5 trim levels: Visia, Acenta, N-Connecta, Tekna And Tekna+. Basic version Visia became richer - it included air conditioning, heated front seats and multimedia with Bluetooth, which used to be an option. And the top one Tekna+ received adaptive cruise control, all-round camera and leather interior.

Comparison of key options by trim level:

• 🚗 Visia — 16" wheels, fabric interior, manual air conditioning, 5" screen.
• 🚗 Acenta — 17" wheels, climate control, rear parking sensors, 7" screen with navigation.
• 🚗 N-Connecta — 18" wheels, leather steering wheel, system Nissan Connect with Apple CarPlay, light/rain sensor.
• 🚗 Tekna — 19" wheels, leather interior, adaptive headlights, front parking sensors.
• 🚗 Tekna+ — panoramic roof, front seat ventilation, system ProPilot (semi-autonomous driving).

Cost of a new one Qashqai 2 restyling in 2021 before discontinuation, it started from 1.6 million rub. for Visia 1.3 DiG-T and reached 2.4 million rub. for Tekna+ 1.5 dCi with all-wheel drive. On the secondary market today (2026) prices range from 1.1 to 1.8 million rub. depending on mileage and configuration.

Pros and cons of restyling: reviews from owners

Restyled Nissan Qashqai J11 received mixed reviews. On the one hand, the car has become more modern thanks to new multimedia and a turbo engine, on the other, new “childhood diseases” have appeared. Let's look at the main pros and cons based on the experience of the owners.

Pros:

• ✅ Dynamics - engine 1.3 DiG-T accelerates the car to 100 km/h in 9.9 s (against 11.3 s at 1.6), while fuel consumption is lower.
• ✅ Shumka — the interior has become quieter due to additional sound insulation of the wheel arches and engine compartment.
• ✅ Electronics - system Around View Monitor (360° camera) and Moving Object Detection (moving object detection) make parking really easy.
• ✅ Suspension - absorbs small irregularities better, but at the same time does not become “cotton”.

Cons:

• ❌ Turbo engine reliability — if the maintenance regulations are not followed, problems with the turbine and system are possible EGR.
• ❌ Spare parts price - original parts for 1.3 DiG-T more expensive than for 1.6 (for example, a turbine costs ~80 thousand rubles).
• ❌ CVT - paired with 2.0 the engine remained the same (Jatco JF016E), which is known for overheating when towing.
• ❌ Ergonomics — the absence of a cup holder in the central tunnel and the inconvenient location of the trunk opening button.

⚠️ Attention: Owners Qashqai 2 restyling with engine 1.3 DiG-T often encounter an error P0299 (low boost pressure) after 50–70 thousand km. Reason: clogged catalyst or faulty valve wastegate. Repair costs 30–50 thousand rubles., so check the car for diagnostics before purchasing.

Comparison with competitors: who is better?

In the compact crossover class Nissan Qashqai 2 restyling there were several direct competitors: Toyota RAV4, Volkswagen Tiguan, Kia Sportage And Hyundai Tucson. Let's compare them based on key parameters.

Parameter	Nissan Qashqai 2 Restyle	Toyota RAV4 (XA40)	VW Tiguan (AD)	Kia Sportage (QL)
Base engine	1.3 DiG-T (140 hp)	2.0 (150 hp)	1.4 TSI (150 hp)	2.0 (150 hp)
Gearbox	Manual6 / automatic transmission	CVT / automatic transmission6	DSG7 / manual transmission6	Automatic6 / Manual6
Flow (mixed)	5.8–6.5 l	6.5–7.2 l	6.2–6.8 l	6.8–7.5 l
Trunk, l	430	580	615	503
Price (2021, new)	1.6–2.4 million	1.8–2.6 million	1.9–2.8 million	1.7–2.5 million
Main plus	Design, handling	Reliability, all-wheel drive	Spacious salon	7 year warranty
Main disadvantage	Turbo engine, spare parts price	Boring design, noisy interior	Expensive maintenance, problems with DSG	Stiff suspension

If we compare the price/quality ratio, then Qashqai loses Kia Sportage under warranty and Toyota RAV4 in terms of reliability, but wins in design and controllability. Volkswagen Tiguan more spacious, but DSG requires careful handling. The choice depends on priorities: if style and dynamics are important - Nissan, if reliability - Toyota, if the space is VW.

Tips for choosing a used Qashqai 2 facelift

Upon purchase Nissan Qashqai J11 after restyling on the secondary market, pay attention to the following points:

Mileage and service history (especially for 1.3 DiG-T) | Condition of the turbine and EGR valve (listen on the go) | Operation of the variator (are there any jerks or delays) | Integrity of paintwork (check with a thickness gauge) | Functionality of electronics (cameras, sensors, multimedia) | Condition of suspension (knocks, play in silent blocks) -->

Pay special attention to:

• 🔧 Engine 1.3 DiG-T - check compression, boost pressure and errors EGR. If the car ran on 92 gasoline, it is better to refuse the purchase.
• 🔧 CVT - paired with 2.0 the engine requires an oil change every 60 thousand km (the official regulation is 90 thousand, but this is risky).
• 🔧 Electronics — check the operation of cameras, parking sensors and the system Nissan Connect (often buggy after updates).
• 🔧 Body — Foci of corrosion often appear on the rear arches and sills. Also check the condition of the door seals (they may leak).

Average market price in 2026:

• 💰 Visia/Acenta (2018–2019 onwards, mileage 60–80 thousand km) — 1.1–1.3 million rub.
• 💰 N-Connecta (2019–2020 onwards, mileage 40–60 thousand km) — 1.3–1.6 million rub.
• 💰 Tekna/Tekna+ (2020–2021 onwards, mileage up to 30 thousand km) — RUB 1.6–1.9 million

If the budget is limited, it makes sense to consider the pre-style version with atmospheric 1.6 or diesel 1.5 dCi — they are more reliable and cheaper to maintain. But if modern design and technology are important, restyled Qashqai with 1.3 DiG-T included N-Connecta or Tekna will be the best choice.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Which engine is more reliable: 1.3 DiG-T or 1.5 dCi?

Diesel 1.5 dCi (K9K) is considered more reliable provided that it is of high-quality fuel and timely oil changes (every 10 thousand km). It is easier to repair and cheaper to maintain, but is sensitive to frost (winter diesel fuel is required). Gasoline 1.3 DiG-T more dynamic, but the turbine and system EGR can cause problems after 100 thousand km. If reliability is your priority, choose diesel. If dynamics and low consumption are important - 1.3 DiG-T, but be prepared for higher maintenance costs.

Is it possible to tow a trailer on a Qashqai 2 restyled with a CVT?

Officially Nissan allows towing a trailer weighing up to 1.2 tons for versions with 1.5 dCi and up to 1 ton for 1.3 DiG-T. However, the CVT Jatco JF016E (installed with 2.0 motor) does not tolerate prolonged loads well - it overheats and wears out faster. If you plan to tow frequently, it is better to choose a version with Manual transmission or diesel. Also, be sure to install an additional variator cooling radiator (costs ~20 thousand rubles).

What kind of oil should I pour into the 1.3 DiG-T engine?

Manufacturer recommends oil 5W-30 or 0W-30 with permission ILSAC GF-5 or ACEA C2/C3. Optimal options:

• 🛢️ Nissan Strong Save X E 5W-30 (original, ~3.5 thousand rubles for 5 l)
• 🛢️ Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 (synthetics, ~4 thousand rubles per 5 l)
• 🛢️ Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W-30 (for turbo engines, ~3.8 thousand rubles per 5 l)

The oil and filter need to be changed every 10 thousand km (despite the official interval of 15 thousand). It is also recommended to check the oil level every 1-2 thousand km - this engine is prone to oil starvation.

Which is better: Qashqai 2 facelift or Kia Sportage 4?

The choice depends on priorities:

• 🚗 Nissan Qashqai 2 Restyle:
• ✅ Stylish design, better handling.
• ✅ More comfortable suspension on small uneven surfaces.
• ✅ Turbo engine 1.3 DiG-T more economical and dynamic 2.0 from Kia.
• ❌ More expensive to maintain (especially the turbo version).
• ❌ Smaller trunk (430 l versus 503 l).
• 🚗 Kia Sportage 4:
• ✅ 7 year warranty (if you buy from an official dealer).
• ✅ More spacious interior and trunk.
• ✅ Atmospheric 2.0 more reliable than a turbo engine Nissan.
• ❌ Less dynamic (acceleration to 100 km/h in 10.9 s versus 9.9 s Qashqai).
• ❌ The suspension is stiffer and absorbs irregularities worse.

If style and dynamics are important, take it Nissan. If the priority is reliability and space - Kia.

How to reset the service interval on Qashqai 2 restyling?

To reset the service interval on your dashboard, follow these steps:

1. Turn on the ignition (without starting the engine).
2. Press and hold the button TRIP (daily mileage reset).
3. Turn the key to position ON (or click the button START without pressing the brake pedal).
4. Hold TRIP within 10 secondsuntil the display shows "Service reset".
5. Release the button and the interval will be reset.

If you have a digital instrument panel (in Tekna), reset is performed through the menu Settings → Maintenance → Reset.