The Nissan Qashqai made quite a splash when it launched in 2007, as it was the very first crossover on the market. Add to that the fact that it’s made in the UK, and it quickly became Nissan’s top selling car here.
Ben and I were delighted to see the latest gen in the metal, and as we had it on review for two weeks, we had chance to see what’s changed. With a redesigned exterior, updated tech, and upscale interior improvements, the Qashqai is better equipped than ever. The model we have here is the Tekna+ 190 e-POWER 2WD. It’s a 1.5L, 3 cylinder petrol/electric engine with an automatic transmission, in Fuji Sunset Red with a black roof.
The updated front grille features a series of high-gloss, three-dimensional comma-shaped elements. These "commas" float between the bonnet lip and the number plate holder, giving a more premium and dynamic look. On the N-Connecta, Tekna, and Tekna+ trims, these commas are highlighted with a satin chrome finish, further enhancing the Qashqai’s striking visual appeal.
At the front, the new headlights lend a purposeful and modern edge. The daytime running lights now surround the main headlight, creating a cohesive and futuristic look. On the N-Design and Tekna grades, you’ll find sequential turning lights front and rear, a first for the Qashqai. These stylish indicators add a sense of precision and polish to the vehicle’s design.
When you move to the rear, the design refinements continue. The red lighting elements in the taillights mirror the shape of the front grille’s commas and appear to float inside the clear lens housing. The colour—dubbed "super red"—is rich and precise, and the new taillight design brings a sense of elevated elegance to the rear of the car.
For those who love their wheels, the new 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels come standard on mid-grade models, while higher trims feature 19-inch and 20-inch alloy wheels with striking designs. These updates give the Qashqai one of the widest selections of wheels in the segment, offering yet another way to customize this stylish crossover to your taste.
Nissan has introduced three new colours to the Qashqai’s palette, each with its own unique flair. Pearl White offers a cleaner, pure finish that glows in the right lighting. Pearl Black provides a deeper, more intense black, which sharpens the definition of the Qashqai’s sleek lines. And for those who want something truly eye-catching, Deep Ocean is a new shade that shifts between dark blue and metallic teal depending on the light conditions.
Nissan has also added a new trim level to the line up—the N-Design grade—which adds even more flair to the Qashqai’s exterior. The lower body panels and wheel arches are now body-coloured, giving the car a more seamless, integrated look. The N-Design trim also features the unique 20-inch alloy wheels, which add presence and style to the car’s overall stance.
When you step inside it’s clear that Nissan has prioritised elevating the interior ambiance and quality. The interior has always been functional, but now it feels more premium than ever before, particularly in the upper trims where Alcantara adorns the dashboard, door inserts, and centre console. This soft-touch material adds a luxurious, tactile feel to the interior, making every drive feel more indulgent.
They have also paid attention to the small details that make a big difference in comfort. New patterned materials decorate the space around the gear selector and glovebox, showcasing Nissan’s dedication to craftsmanship. The updated seat trims—especially the black partially quilted premium leather in the top-spec Tekna+ trim—deliver a refined and plush experience. Even the burnt umber flashes on the seats in the penultimate grade add a touch of sophistication and design flair.
Adding to the premium feel is the new ambient lighting system, which offers 64 different colour options on N-Connecta, N-Design, and higher trims. This feature allows drivers to personalize the interior atmosphere, creating a more luxurious and relaxing driving environment.
Technology is where the Qashqai truly shines, and this latest version doesn’t disappoint. The upgraded Around View Monitor (AVM) now includes a 3D function, allowing drivers to see the vehicle from multiple external camera viewpoints, helping with tricky manoeuvres. The “invisible hood view” gives a clear view of the front wheels, perfect for navigating tight spaces or avoiding curbs in multi-story car parks.
One of the most convenient features is the wide-angle front camera, which is designed to aid drivers when exiting challenging or limited-visibility junctions. This feature can be stored in the AVM’s GPS memory, making it automatically activate when near pre-saved locations.
Voice commands through Google Assistant allow drivers to control features like the ventilation system, heated seats, and even the navigation, all without taking their hands off the wheel. The ecosystem of apps available via Google Play means you can listen to your favourite music, podcasts, and more, all with ease and convenience. It’s a high-tech addition that elevates the in-car experience.
The NissanConnect Services also monitor your vehicle for you, sending reminders if you forget to lock the doors or close a window, and providing alerts in case of theft or tampering. It’s a handy peace-of-mind feature that’s perfect for busy modern drivers.
From its bold design updates and luxurious interior refinements to the integrated Google tech and advanced driver-assistance systems, the new Qashqai continues to set itself apart in the compact SUV segment. Whether you're looking for a stylish urban cruiser or a tech-savvy, family-friendly SUV, the Qashqai remains a top contender.
It’s easy to see why this model has earned its place as the segment leader and continues to build on its legacy as the original crossover. If you’re in the market for a new SUV, the Nissan Qashqai should definitely be on your radar.
Acenta Premium Trim costs £30,135.00 on the road
N-Connecta Trim costs £32,305.00 on the road
N-Design Trim costs £34,845.00 on the road
Tekna Trim costs £34,845.00 on the road
Tekna+ Trim costs £38,875.00 on the road
Thank you all, and enjoy!
Annabelle 😊