Nissan Qashqai (2024) Review: The UK's Favourite SUV, Updated!
Written by: Motorwatch
Published on October 2, 2024 - 5 mins
The Nissan Qashqai has been a staple in UK driveways for years, and for 2024, Nissan’s most popular SUV is back with a bang! But, does this update keep it ahead of the competition like the Kia Sportage and Peugeot 3008? Let’s find out!
Exterior Design – 4/5
First off, the 2024 Qashqai looks sharper than ever. Nissan hasn’t done anything too crazy with the design, but the sleek LED headlights, bold grille, and sporty body lines give it a more modern feel. It’s still very much recognisable as a Qashqai but with a slightly more premium vibe.
At the back, the tail lights have a fresh new shape, and those large alloy wheels (up to 20 inches) add a bit of bling to the whole thing. If you’re after a family SUV that won’t go unnoticed but doesn’t scream for attention, the Qashqai hits the sweet spot.
Interior Quality and Tech – 4.5/5
Step inside, and the Qashqai has had a serious tech upgrade! The 9-inch infotainment screen is crisp, responsive, and now supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – perfect for the school run playlists or navigating through the city.
The materials used feel solid, with soft-touch plastics in all the right places. It’s a real step up from the older models. Even the base models feel more upmarket than before. There’s also a fully digital driver’s display in higher trims, which looks fantastic.
In terms of practicality, there’s plenty of room for the family. The back seats are spacious enough for three adults (or more realistically, two adults and a child seat), and the boot offers a decent 504 litres of space, more than enough for the weekly shop or a weekend getaway.
Driving Experience – 3.5/5
On the road, the Qashqai is exactly what you’d expect. It’s comfortable, smooth, and soaks up bumps pretty well. Around town, it’s light and easy to drive, thanks to the light steering and good visibility. Motorways? It cruises comfortably, and there’s a decent amount of soundproofing to keep things quiet inside.
However, it’s not exactly thrilling to drive. The 1.3-litre mild-hybrid petrol engine delivers enough power for everyday driving, but it’s not the fastest thing out there. The CVT automatic gearbox can feel a bit sluggish, especially if you need a quick burst of speed for overtaking. Still, for a family SUV, it does the job well.
Fuel Economy and Running Costs – 4/5
The mild-hybrid system helps keep fuel consumption low, especially in urban driving. You can expect around 40-45 mpg, which is pretty decent for a car of this size. CO2 emissions are also kept in check, which means road tax won’t break the bank.
Nissan’s offering competitive warranty options too, and with its solid reliability track record, the Qashqai is a safe bet for those looking for low running costs over the years.
Safety – 4.5/5
When it comes to safety, Nissan has thrown in everything but the kitchen sink. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and emergency braking are all standard across the range. It’s no surprise the Qashqai scores high in crash tests, making it an ideal family car for peace of mind.
Verdict – 4/5
The 2024 Nissan Qashqai isn’t going to blow you away with its performance, but that’s not the point. It’s a practical, comfortable, and tech-packed SUV that does everything a family needs, and more. For the price, it’s hard to beat in terms of value.
If you’re after a stylish and reliable family SUV with all the latest gadgets, the Qashqai is definitely worth a look. Just don’t expect a thrilling drive – it’s more about getting you from A to B with minimum fuss.