The Best Family SUV 2024 Winner was also the best-selling car in 2022-23, with over 42,704 units sold that year. But is it really the best family SUV out there?
This detailed review explores the Nissan Qashqai e-POWER.
The Final Verdict
It has been everyone's favourite for years in the UK and is a compelling choice in the compact SUV market.
With its sleek, modern design, comfortable, tech-rich interior, efficient hybrid performance, and advanced safety features, it has something for everyone.
Whether navigating the city streets, exploring the latest tech, or ferrying your family in comfort, the Qashqai is a versatile choice that impresses on multiple fronts.
What is in the Review?
Monthly PCP Price: £372
Deposit: £1,250
Specific Trim: 1.5 E-Power Acenta Premium 5dr Auto
A Quick Overview
53 to 55 mpg
Mileage
7.9 Seconds
Acceleration 0-62
187bhp/330Nm
Power Outputs
5 Stars
Euro NCAP Ratings
504 litres
Boot Space
About the Nissan Qashqai e-Power 2024
Nissan launched a facelift version of the Qashqai in 2024 to meet the competitive demands of the SUV market.
What has Changed in the 2024 Variant?
Various trim levels are available to meet different demands.
Two main petrol engines are available: the 138bhp DDIG-T 140 and the 156bhp DIG-T 158, both equipped with mild hybrid technology.
The e-POWER variant, our standout model, sets itself apart with its unique use of a 1.5-litre engine as an electric generator, delivering instant acceleration and a total power output of 187bhp.
The e-POWER variant, with an impressive fuel efficiency of 53.3 mpg, stands as the most fuel efficient among all Qashqai variants, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious buyers.
In terms of driving experience, among other variants, it's also a quieter ride and has an electric field due to its e-POWER system, which works as a generator.
We can confidently say that it has all the features of an electric car but none of the demerits of an EV or plug-in hybrid, like range anxiety, etc
There is better cabin refinement with some trims featuring a 360-degree camera system.
The price has slightly increased, but more tech comes as standard.
Comparison With Other Trims
The 2024 Nissan Qashqai e-POWER stands out compared to the DIG-T 140 and 158 trims with its unique hybrid system. Thanks to instant torque and the absence of traditional gear changes, it delivers smoother, quieter, and more responsive driving.
It offers better fuel efficiency (53.3mpg vs. 40.1mpg) and lower emissions, making it a greener option.
While the e-POWER is priced higher, it compensates with reduced long-term running costs, particularly for urban drivers.
While more affordable and familiar to traditional petrol users, the DIG-T trims offer slower acceleration and a less refined driving experience.
Both variants share similar tech features, but the e-POWER provides a more modern, electric-like driving experience without charging.
This makes it the more advanced choice.
The Driving Quality
The Overall Driving Experience
The overall driving experience of the Nissan Qashqai e-power is smooth, refined, and electric without needing to be plugged in.
The instant torque from the electric motor is a game-changer, delivering quick, responsive acceleration that will give you the confidence you need, especially in city traffic.
The light steering makes manoeuvring easy. It is a delight for urban environments but less engaging on open roads
How Good is it on Highways and Motorways?
The e-POWER provides a smooth ride, quiet cabin, and responsive performance on motorways.
The suspension absorbs road imperfections well, ensuring comfort, while the electric motor's instant torque makes overtaking and merging effortless.
The 187hp, with no gear changes, is enough to provide consistent, refined power delivery.
Compared with competitors, the Hyundai Tucson 1.6 T-GDI Hybrid with 230hp is more engaging at high speed, but if you are after overall fuel efficiency, practicality, ease of use, and a more relaxed driving experience on highways and motorways, then the Nissan Qashqai would appeal to you more.
The e-Power Effect on Driving Performance
The e-POWER, as a standout variant, significantly enhances the overall driving experience compared to the traditional mild hybrid petrol variants. This is credited to its electric motor-driven performance, which provides good instant torque and smooth acceleration.
The absence of a gearbox helps generate seamless power delivery, making the overall drive more comfortable and refined.
The e-POWER also drives more quietly than the petrol model and has better acceleration. Its 0-62mph time of 7.9 seconds is much better than that of its petrol counterparts, which usually take over 9.5 seconds.
The e-POWER system, with its advanced technology, offers a more efficient driving experience for city and long-distance driving. This reassures potential buyers of its versatility and efficiency, instilling a sense of confidence in their purchase decision.
How Good is the Handling?
The comfort and ease of use in its handling make it great for families and daily driving.
The Qashqai's steering is notably light, enhancing its suitability for families and daily driving. This feature makes it a breeze to manoeuvre, adding to its appeal for potential buyers.
The Qashqai’s suspension is comfort-oriented. It absorbs bumps and imperfections well, providing a smooth ride on city streets and motorways.
The suspension is comfortable and absorbs bumps and imperfections well, making it ideal for both city streets and motorways.
While body control is stable, there is noticeable body roll at higher speeds and during sharp manoeuvres, more so than in sportier competitors like the Seat Ateca or Ford Kuga.
Though the overall traction is good, this is due to the overall driving dynamics. For better traction and stability in adverse weather or rough terrain, the optional four-wheel drive (available with a 58hp version) is a more suitable option.
The Qashqai delivers predictable, safe, and comfortable handling. This makes it an excellent choice for families who prioritise comfort and ease of use over dynamic performance.
While it may not be as sporty as some competitors, it offers a stable and relaxed driving experience for everyday use, making it a top pick for family-oriented SUVs.
The Driving Modes and Their Impact
The e-POWER variants offer three driving modes: Eco, Standard, and Sport. These driving modes significantly affect the car's performance, efficiency, and driving dynamics.
Eco mode to maximise fuel efficiency. This mode makes a noticeable difference in city driving, particularly in stop-start traffic, where regenerative braking and smother acceleration help save fuel. It is more impactful than petrol-only vehicles, where Eco mode often feels sluggish without real efficiency gains.
Competitors like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid offer similar fuel-saving modes. The RAV4 hybrid and Qashqai have real-world averages of around 50-55 mpg.
The Qashqai e-POWER's Standard Mode is the default and provides a balance between performance and efficiency. It doesn't overwhelm drivers with too many changes and offers smooth, consistent power delivery from the electric motor, making it useful for everyday driving.
The Qashqai e-POWER's standard mode is much better than competitors, where it often feels underwhelming. It offers enough torque for city and motorway driving without overcomplicating things.
In Sport Mode, the Qashqai e-POWER offers sharper throttle response and increased power delivery, giving drivers a real sense of improved acceleration and responsiveness.
Its Sport Mode just won't transform the Qashqai into a sporty SUV because, as discussed above, it is not.
Its electric motor makes high-speed driving more engaging than petrol variants with slower gear changes. This mode provides a tangible improvement in performance, making the driving experience more enjoyable without the illusion of performance.
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How Good is it for City Driving
The Nissan Qashqai e-POWER is ideal for city driving due to its smooth, quiet, and fuel-efficient performance.
The e-POWER system provides instant torque and electric-like driving without charging, making it perfect for stop-and-go traffic.
The quiet cabin and seamless acceleration enhance comfort, while its light steering and compact dimensions make it easy to manoeuvre through tight streets.
With fuel efficiency up to 60mpg in urban conditions, the Qashqai e-POWER is a comfortable and eco-friendly option for city commuters and a practical one. It offers a reassuring solution for those who value both economy and comfort in their daily commute.
Exterior - is it Impressive for a Family SUV?
The 2024 Nissan Qashqai e-POWER's exterior is bold and practical, making it a solid choice for families.
The 2024 Nissan Qashqai e-POWER's refreshed front grille and LED headlights give it a sleek, modern appearance, enhancing its high-tech appeal. Its aerodynamic design further boosts its efficiency.
The wide opening door for easy access, large windows for visibility, and raised clearance give an airy, family-friendly feel.
Overall, its exterior is impressive offering a sound, visually appealing, yet functional option in the family SUV segment.
How Much It is Similar with the Nissan Juke?
Although the Nissan Qashqai and Juke share some design elements as part of Nissan's SUV line-up, they cater for different needs.
The Qashqai is larger and more spacious, ideal for families. It has a modern, refined design and a focus on practicality.
In comparison, the Juke is smaller and has a quirky, sporty appearance. It is better suited for individuals or small families looking for a compact SUV for city driving.
The Qashqai emphasises space and family use in a shell, whereas the Juke offers a more youthful, urban-oriented style.
The Difference in Exterior Across Trims
The exterior differences between the Nissan Qashqai e-Power and other trims are mainly in design details like wheels, lighting, and styling features.
While all trims share the same overall shape, the e-Power variant (in higher trims like Tekna or Tekna+) has more premium features, such as LED matrix headlights, adaptive lighting, larger alloy wheels (19-20 inches), and two-tone paint schemes with panoramic roofs.
Lower trims, like Visia or Acenta Premium, have more straightforward features, such as halogen headlights, smaller wheels (17-18 inches), and monotone colours. The body shape and dimensions are the same across all trims.
If you want a more premium, customisable appearance, larger wheels, and enhanced lighting technology, then the e-Power is made for you.
How Does It Compare to Competitors in Exterior Design?
Compared to its competitors, such as the Toyota C-HR, Kia Sportage, Honda ZR-V, and Hyundai Kona, the Qashqai takes a slightly more conservative but refined design approach.
One key difference between Kia and its competitors is that Nissan has chosen a more family-friendly approach over bold or futuristic styling.
You can easily spot a Qashqai, especially e Power, due to its distinctive styling from far away, compared to its competitors, who are mostly quite similar.
The Interior Design Features - Is it Practical Like Exterior?
The Overall Design - Is it Modern or Minimal?
Rarely do we see vehicles, especially SUVs, whose interiors are both modern and practical; mostly, they are either one or the other.
Stepping in, you will feel that it is designed with high-quality material and has a premium feel. This is credit to its soft-touch surfaces, leather-trimmed seats, and clean and uncluttered dashboard.
The spacious cabin offers ample family room, supportive seats, and plenty of storage options.
Its tech-forward design, which includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless charging, and multiple USB ports, makes it ideal for modern needs.
How Good is the Infotainment System?
The Nissan Qashqai e-POWER stands out with its 12.3-inch touchscreen.
The system is intuitive and responsive, making it easy to navigate settings and apps. Features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless Apple CarPlay add to its user-friendly appeal.
Compared to its competitors, the Qashqai is a more tech-forward option, thanks to its built-in Google maps, Google Assistant, and over-the-air updates. Competitors like Toyota CHR and Hyundai Kona both have smaller screens and fewer integrated features than the Qashqai.
Overall, after testing its infotainment system, we can say that it delivers a superior experience compared to competitors, making it one of the most advanced infotainment setups in the family SUV segment.
Is it Comfortable?
The Nissan Qashqai e-POWER's interior is modern, tech-forward, highly comfortable, and designed for everyday usability.
The spacious and supportive monoform seats are designed for long journeys. High-quality materials, like soft-touch surfaces and leather upholstery in premium versions, further enhance the interior experience.
Thanks to the hybrid system, ample storage space and a quiet cabin add to the overall comfort.
Compared to the Toyota C-HR and Hyundai Kona, the Qashqai's interior is more refined, practical, and family-friendly, making it a unique and comfortable choice.
The Front and Rear Space - How Good is it in its Class?
The front and rear space is excellent.
Moving to the front, there is ample legroom and headroom, especially for taller passengers.
Our experts who tested this vehicle are above six feet tall and found them extremely comfortable.
The fully adjustable seats (including lumbar and height adjustment) and an elevated driving position for improved visibility make it even better.
In the rear, you can easily accommodate two or three adults for shorter trips. Wide-opening doors make it family-friendly and features like rear USB-C ports, and adjustable air vents add comfort in higher trims.
The Qashqai surpasses rivals like the Toyota C-HR and Hyundai Kona in rear space, offering better practicality, especially for families.
Space and Practicality
The vehicle stands out for its exceptional space and comfort in both the front and rear seats.
The front offers ample legroom and headroom with fully adjustable seats, ideal for taller drivers. In the rear, the Qashqai excels with generous legroom and a broad seat base, ensuring comfort on longer trips.
Compared to rivals like the Toyota C-HR and Hyundai Kona, it offers significantly more rear space, making it a top choice for families.
This balance of space, style, and technology makes it a practical and appealing family SUV.
The Boot and the Cargo Space?
The Qashqai e-POWER offers a practical 504-litre boot space, which is suitable for most urban drivers and caters well to daily needs like grocery shopping or family trips.
While the Kia Sportage and Skoda Karoq offer more expansive cargo space, the Qashqai's capacity remains valid, especially for small families.
The flexible rear seats can fold down to expand the space for larger items, though bulkier objects like bikes may still present a challenge.
Despite the raised boot floor in some versions, the underfloor storage adds convenience for smaller items and keeps the main area tidy and organised.
Although the Qashqai doesn't include advanced customisation options like adjustable boot floors or modular cargo systems, it's still versatile for most daily uses, striking a balance between practicality and comfort.
How Good is the Cabin Storage?
Qashqai e-POWER offers practical cabin storage, making it a functional family SUV, though it only sometimes stands out against some of its more spacious rivals.
The cabin has multiple storage options, including large door bins, a spacious glovebox, and a central console that features cupholders and additional storage beneath the armrest.
The rear passengers can access seat-back pockets, while higher trims offer additional USB ports for device charging.
While the storage is adequate for most families, some users might feel it lacks the customisable or modular features available in specific competitors like the Skoda Karoq, which offers more creative solutions for cabins.
Is it Best When it Comes to Practicality in its Class?
The Nissan Qashqai e-POWER is an efficient family SUV, but whether it's the best in terms of practicality depends on your needs.
For those prioritising extra boot space, competitors like the Skoda Karoq and Kia Sportage offer more cargo room and flexible storage options, which might make the Qashqai less appealing.
That said, the Qashqai excels in overall practicality.
Its well-designed cabin storage, including large door bins, a spacious glovebox, and a 504-litre boot, meets the needs of most families.
Foldable rear seats and wide-opening doors further enhance its convenience for daily use.
While competitors offer more modular rear seats and customisable boot layouts, the Qashqai is ideal for families seeking a practical SUV with robust storage solutions for everyday driving.
For many, it remains one of the best choices in its class for balancing comfort and practicality.
The Resale and Depreciation Value
How Strong is the Residual Value?
The Nissan Qashqai holds residual solid value in the UK, driven by its popularity, reliability, and appeal as a family SUV.
The e-POWER hybrid variant further boosts this, as hybrid vehicles gain traction for fuel efficiency and eco-friendly benefits.
Compared to competitors like the Kia Sportage and Toyota C-HR, the Qashqai holds its own, offering one of its class's most vital residual values.
How Competitive is the Overall Price?
The Nissan Qashqai e-POWER is competitively priced within the hybrid SUV market, offering excellent value for its features.
With prices starting around £34,430 (save more with Motorfinity) and going up to £42,980, it is more affordable than rivals like the Volkswagen Tiguan and Ford Kuga Hybrid while still being slightly higher than the Toyota C-HR Hybrid.
The e-POWER system adds a £4,000 premium (less if you buy it with Motorfinity); it enhances the overall driving experience with hybrid efficiency and smoothness, making it an excellent option for those prioritising comfort, technology, and fuel efficiency in city driving.
The Insurance Cost
The Nissan Qashqai e-POWER falls into insurance groups 24E to 30A, depending on the trim. Lower trims, like Acenta Premium, are in group 24E or 25E, offering lower insurance costs, while mid-range trims, like N-Connecta, fall into groups 26E to 27E.
Higher trims, such as Tekna and Tekna+ with e-POWER, are in groups 29A to 30A, reflecting more advanced features.
Although insurance costs vary based on factors like location and driving history, the Qashqai's rates are competitive for its class.
Higher trims with e-POWER may have slightly higher premiums due to their premium features
Price
The Nissan Qashqai e-POWER has a starting price range of £34,030 to £42,980, depending on the trim level. However, significant savings are available through Motorfinity, which specialises in offering discounts to eligible customers such as UK Blue Light Card holders, military personnel, and teachers.
Motorfinity and the Nissan Qashqai
Motorfinity offers exclusive discounts on the Nissan Qashqai and other vehicles, potentially saving you thousands. Our personalised account managers handle the entire process, from enquiry to delivery, ensuring a seamless experience.
Are you eligible?
Our nation’s Armed Forces, Veterans, Emergency Services, NHS, Police and Prison Services, the Education and Social Care sectors and more form our eligible audience.
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