Used Nissan Qashqai Buying Guide
The Nissan Qashqai invented the modern family crossover, and it remains one of the most-searched used cars in Britain for good reason: hatchback running costs, SUV seating position and huge choice. The second-generation car (2014–2021) dominates the used market and is built in Sunderland, while the third generation (2021 onwards) adds mild-hybrid petrols and the clever e-Power range-extender hybrid. Neither is the sharpest crossover to drive, but both are comfortable, practical and easy to live with.
Engines and trims
Early second-generation cars offered 1.2 DIG-T and 1.6 DIG-T petrols plus 1.5 and 1.6 dCi diesels. From 2018 the petrols were replaced by the stronger, more refined 1.3 DIG-T in 140PS and 160PS forms, which is the engine most buyers should target. The 1.5 dCi diesel is impressively economical and best for high-mileage drivers, provided it gets regular motorway runs. The current car pairs the 1.3 mild-hybrid petrol with manual, or an Xtronic CVT automatic, and the e-Power version uses its petrol engine purely as a generator, giving EV-style response without plugging in. All versions are front-wheel drive unless badged otherwise, and two-wheel-drive cars are cheaper to run and entirely adequate for most families.
Trim-wise, Acenta Premium covers the essentials well, N-Connecta is the sweet spot with its around-view cameras and dual-zone climate, and Tekna/Tekna+ add leather, LED headlights and ProPILOT assisted driving on later cars. The panoramic glass roof is common from N-Connecta upward.
What to check before buying
The 1.2 DIG-T petrol from the chain-driven early years needs a careful listen: cold-start rattle can point to timing-chain wear, and some engines also used oil, so check the level, service stamps and any evidence of remedial work. Early 1.3 DIG-T engines had isolated chain-related issues too, so the same cold-start check applies, along with confirmation of software updates and recalls. CVT-equipped cars deserve an extended test drive — the Xtronic should be smooth and quiet, and documented CVT fluid changes are a strong sign of a caring owner. Diesels used mainly in town can suffer DPF and EGR trouble, so match the car’s history to its likely use. Across all versions, check the panoramic roof for leaks and blocked drains, make sure the electronic parking brake and lane-keeping systems behave, and test every camera and sensor on higher trims. On higher-mileage cars, feel for wear in the steering and suspension over rough roads, as bushes and drop links are common MOT advisories.
Running costs
The 1.3 DIG-T typically returns low-to-mid 40s mpg in mixed driving, the 1.5 dCi mid-50s or better on a run, and the e-Power does its best work in stop-start traffic. Insurance groups are moderate for the class, and Nissan’s large UK dealer network plus plentiful independents keep servicing affordable. Post-2017 cars pay flat-rate road tax, and parts supply for this Sunderland-built model is excellent. Budget sensibly for tyres on larger-wheeled Tekna cars. Depreciation has already done its worst on earlier examples, making a three-to-six-year-old car particularly good value.
Verdict
A tidy 1.3 DIG-T Qashqai in N-Connecta trim is the definition of a sensible family buy: roomy, refined enough and cheap to keep. Be more cautious with early 1.2 petrols and neglected CVTs, insist on full history, and the Qashqai will do exactly what it has always done best — everyday family duty without drama.
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