Nissan’s second crossover album goes platinum, and now it’s a bargain used buy
It’s hard to understate the Nissan Qashqai’s success. Across three generations, three million examples have been sold in Europe so far and it continues to be one of the best-selling cars in the UK, with 19,687 sold in the first half of this year.There are some clear reasons for that success. To the everyman, this crossover is as versatile as it is generously equipped, and as practical as it is handsome.That last part is mostly down to its underpinnings. The second-generation model (2014-21) we’re considering here sits on the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance’s Common Module Family (CMF) platform, which makes the Mk2 47mm longer than its predecessor – the car that started the SUV/crossover craze – while being lower and a little bit wider.The previous model was a major departure in terms of styling compared with its contemporary Nissans, whereas this ‘J11’ generation’s design is more evolutionary. That said, it does look slightly more dynamic than the Mk1, thanks to its sharp lines and some pleasing detailing. A facelift in 2016 made it sharper-looking still.But an inviting appearance alone will not be enough when your shortlist is also likely to feature the cavernous Skoda Karoq, the premium-feeling Audi Q3 and the sheen of the Tesla Model Y. So, even three years after it was taken off sale, the Mk2 Qashqai continues to face stern competition as a used car.While it can’t match the Karoq for outright boot space – 430 litres compared with the Czech car’s 521 litres – it compares well with other rivals such as the Q3 (380 litres) and Ford Kuga (406 litres).You might be swayed to the Q3 for its interior perceived quality and the Kuga for driving appeal, but again the Qashqai comes back to bite them. The car’s dashboard is contemporary to look at and to feel and has a level of ergonomic appeal that puts it on a par with anything theVolkswagen Group can throw at it. This is, again, evident in the boot, where its reversible floor panels can be raised or lowered to fit 16 different configurations.On the road, the Qashqai handles itself with a taut, firmer edge while still being comfortable and its steering is reassuringly predictable. There is, however, little in the way of charm or engagement for the keener driver.You can choose from five trim levels, including the entry-level Visia, mid-rung Acenta and top-spec N-Connecta and Tekna (N-Tec on pre-facelift cars). As standard, all cars come with all-around electric windows, cruise control, heated door mirrors, LED daytime-running lights and air conditioning.We would opt for the N-Connecta cars as these were the best equipped and can be had from just £4000. For that, you get high-beam assist, traffic sign recognition, lane departure warning, 18in alloy wheels, front sports seats and a 7.0in touchscreen with sat-nav and a 360deg camera. Smartphone mirroring was not available on any model but it can be retrofitted if you buy an aftermarket display.As for engines, there are two turbocharged petrols – a 113bhp 1.2 (our pick) and a 160bhp 1.6 – and two diesels. Of the oil-burners, the 128bhp 1.6 is more powerful but we prefer the quiet and well-mannered 109bhp 1.5.All engines came with a six-speed manual as standard but the 1.2 petrol and 1.6 diesel were also offered with a CVT, called Xtron.If, then, you’re not one of the three million people who have already been convinced by the Qashqai’s strengths, perhaps a used Mk2 will make you reconsider. It still delivers practicality, comfort and technology in that forever appealing crossover-sized bubble and prices now start at £2500. If you can do without driving character, it’s a keeper.
