Nissan QASHQAI+2 1.6 Visia 5dr Car Review - February 2012

Inside the Qashqai you get a commanding view and it’s easy to find the ideal driving position thanks to height and reach adjustment on the steering column and height adjustment on the driver’s seat. The seats are a bit squashy but still give reasonable support. The dash is well laid out and all the controls are easy to find and within easy reach. Rear visibility is hampered a bit by the thick rear pillars.

The 1.6-litre 4-cylinder, 16-valve petrol engine fitted to this model is strong enough for the job, producing maximum power of 115bhp and 116lb-ft of torque. It’s capable of going from 0-62mph in 12.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 112mph. With enough zip at low speeds for city driving, it also copes well with cruising on open roads. While the petrol versions are not so economical with fuel (42.8mpg on average), the diesel versions are better and average over 50mpg.

A four-wheel drive option is available with the 1.6 diesel and both versions of the 2.0-litre engines.

The Qashqai is fitted as standard with chunky tyres, and its pliant suspension gives a good ride at any speed over poor surfaces. Its tall design means there is quite a lot of lean while cornering, though because of its good grip it doesn’t feel sloppy. The steering can be a little heavy at low speeds, especially when parking but at speed it feels firm and stable.

There’s some wind noise from the large door mirrors cruising at motorway speeds but any noise from the road or suspension is well suppressed – over good or bad surfaces.

Its clean, modern styling, funky alloys and sporty stance make it pleasing on the eye from the outside, while the interior is well fitted and finished with an uncluttered feel to it.

All models are well kitted out as standard. The entry-level Visia version has power steering, central locking, alloy wheels, air conditioning, electric door mirrors, electric windows, alarm and immobiliser, CD+MP3 connectivity and Bluetooth. Up a level to the Acenta brings you climate control, cruise control, parking sensors, CD changer, and automatic headlights and wipers. The n-tec version adds a satellite-navigation system and a sunroof, while the top of the range Tekna versions come with leather upholstery and xenon headlights.

Metallic paint comes as an additional extra for £495.

Nissan has managed to install extra seating in the +2 model as it’s longer than the standard Qashqai. While they may not be the most comfortable for adults over a long journey they certainly add to the practicality of the car and they’re great for kids on the school run. Boot space is very good offering 450-litres with the rear seats up and an excellent 1,520-litres with them folded.

Safety is taken care of with stability control, anti-whiplash head restraints up front, airbags front and side as well as curtain airbags fitted as standard. Anti-theft deterrents include deadlocks, visible VIN and marked components as well as an immobilizer.

Build quality is excellent and the finish is superb. In the cabin everything feels solid and durable and the Qashqai has performed well in customer satisfaction surveys for reliability. It comes with Nissan’s standard 3-year 60,000 mile warranty and service intervals of 12,500 miles.

The Qashqai+2 is priced competitively (£17,895) with rivals such as the Peugeot 3008, and its decent fuel economy and CO2 emissions (154g/km) are also competitive for its class. Road Tax in VED band G and insurance in group 15 are also on a par with competitors.

Nissan cars in general hold their value well and the Qashqai is no exception. There is a growing demand for cars in this class and selling it on later should be no problem.

The +2 is bit longer than the regular version and both cars drive similarly. However, the additional weight of the +2 means that the diesel powered versions may be your best option. Unless you specifically need 4X4 capability then the Qashqai +2 is a good option as its faster and more economical then the 4WD version.