31-03-2025
Test-Driving The 2025 Nissan Qashqai
Nissan Qashqai navigating backroads
Nissan UK
Nissan launched the Qashqai into the U.K. market in 2006 and over time it won numerous awards such as 'Best Small SUV' and 'Used Car of the Year'. The Qashqai's looks remained subtle until Nissan produced the third generation, which led to the newest facelift reviewed here.
The biggest change is the Qashqai's front end, which was inspired by Japanese armour. It's handsome. Re-profiled bumpers and LED headlights emit aggression and there are new alloy designs now up to 20 inches.
Gone are lifeless interiors. Nissan's given the Qashqai more fizz by wrapping the dashboard in Alcantara. Likewise, there's now a 360-degree camera, a Google Nissan Connected System, and a funky 'transparent bonnet' feature where cameras give a projected line of sight to the front wheels to assist while navigating challenging terrain.
My loaner was the range-topping Tekna + e-Power, which feeds 188 bhp to the front feels via a CVT gearbox. As you'll probably guess, the Qashqai isn't the most exhilarating thing to fire down a twisty road. That said, it doesn't lean much and out-of-corner acceleration is acceptable. If bend-ironing is important, the Ford Kuga and Mazda CX-5 excel here.
2025 Nissan Qashqai
Matthew MacConnell
There's plenty of mid-range acceleration and the initial response is perky when sinking the gas pedal. But the petrol engine works overtime to keep the electric motor's battery topped up, and emits quite a racket under acceleration.
It's a great motorway cruiser thanks to intelligent cruise control, a standard feature, while ProPilot automatically keeps the car centred in its lane and slows it for corners and roundabouts ahead. It's worth noting this feature is only available on Tekna grade upwards. Over a 100-mile trip, the Qashqai returned 44.9mpg.
The Nissan Qashqai remains a perfectly capable family wagon. Generous interior space allows tall adults to stretch out in the rear while a large boot, which varies depending on trim level, swallows luggage and prams with ease.
Similarly, the 188 bhp engine packs enough punch and offers great economy although it's worth noting this engine isn't available with four-wheel drive.
Unlike the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson, the Qashqai isn't offered with plug-in hybrid power, but the e-Power is essentially a stepping stone from mild-hybrid to full EV. Think of it as a range-extending hybrid.
Looking at family cars? Check out the Subaru Crosstrek and Kia Sorento PHEV.
2025 Nissan Qashqai rear
Nissan UK
Price as tested: £43,725 ($56,571)
Top Speed: 105 mph
0-62 mph: 7.9 seconds
Power: 188 bhp
Torque: 330Nm
Engine: 1.5-litre mild hybrid e-Power
Nissan Qashqai Gearbox: CVT
