Used Nissan Qashqai Review 2025: Is This the UK’s Best Value Family SUV?

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Thinking about a used Nissan Qashqai? Read our review—reliability, running costs, trim guide, key features, and what to check before you buy. Find out if the Qashqai is still the UK’s top second-hand SUV pick.

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Introduction

The Nissan Qashqai isn’t just the UK’s best-selling SUV—it’s the car that defined the family crossover. If you’re hunting for a practical, stylish, and affordable used SUV, the Qashqai deserves a spot at the top of your shortlist. But what’s it really like to own second-hand? Here’s your 2025 guide to buying a used Nissan Qashqai: models, engines, reliability, running costs, and what to watch out for.

Why Buy a Used Nissan Qashqai?

Superb value: Depreciation means you get a lot of car for your money.
Family-friendly: Spacious cabin, big boot, elevated driving position.
Comfortable: Smooth ride, light steering, quiet on the motorway.
Economical: Frugal petrol and diesel options; low running costs.
Well-equipped: Even base trims get Bluetooth, air con, and safety tech.
Strong resale: Qashqais hold value better than many rivals.

Model Overview: Which Qashqai Should You Buy?

First Generation (2007–2013)

Pros: Budget-friendly, simple tech, plenty of choice.
Cons: Dated infotainment, some early diesels can be noisy.

Second Generation (2014–2021)

Pros: Big leap in quality, sharper looks, improved safety and infotainment. More efficient engines.
Cons: Some diesel models affected by emissions-related recalls.

Third Generation (2021–present)

Pros: Latest tech, hybrid options, improved comfort and refinement.
Cons: Still relatively new, so used prices are higher.

Popular trims:

Visia: Entry-level, but decent kit (A/C, cruise, Bluetooth).
Acenta/Connecta: Alloy wheels, touchscreen, reversing camera, upgraded interior.
N-Connecta: Sat nav, dual-zone climate, panoramic roof.
Tekna/Tekna+: Leather, heated seats, advanced safety, premium sound.

Engines & Performance: What to Look For

Petrol: 1.2 DIG-T (pre-2018), 1.3 DIG-T (post-2018), 1.6, and 1.5 mild hybrid (latest). Smooth, quiet, and best for town driving.
Diesel: 1.5 dCi and 1.6 dCi. Great for motorway miles and towing, but check for DPF (diesel particulate filter) issues if mostly city use.
Hybrid (from 2022): 1.3 mild hybrid and e-POWER full hybrid—lower emissions and better fuel economy.

Gearboxes:

6-speed manual: Most common, light and easy.
CVT automatic: Smooth, but can feel sluggish under hard acceleration.
DCT (dual-clutch, newer models): Faster shifts, more engaging.

Running Costs

Fuel economy: 40–58 mpg (diesel best, hybrids even better).
Insurance: Group 13–20—competitive for a family SUV.
Tax: From £20/year (older diesels) to £180+ (newer petrols/hybrids).
Servicing: Annual or 12,000 miles; affordable at independents and main dealers.
Parts: Widely available and reasonably priced.

Reliability & Common Issues

Strengths:

Generally reliable, especially petrols and newer hybrids.
Good build quality, durable interiors.

What to check:

Diesel DPF: If mostly used for short trips, DPF can clog—look for warning lights or forced regens.
Clutch & gearbox: Some early manuals had premature clutch wear.
Infotainment glitches: Check all screens, Bluetooth, and reversing cameras work.
Suspension knocks: Listen for clunks over bumps (bushes and drop links can wear).
Recalls: Check for completed recall work (especially for diesels).

Tip: Full service history and recent MOT with no advisories are big pluses.

Interior & Practicality

Cabin: Soft-touch materials, clear dials, comfortable seats.
Space: Easily seats 4 adults, big boot (401–504L depending on model), split-folding rear seats.
Tech: Touchscreen (from Acenta up), Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (2017+), reversing camera, adaptive cruise (Tekna).
Child-friendly: ISOFIX points, wide-opening rear doors, high safety ratings.

Driving Experience

Town: Light steering, good visibility, easy to park (especially with cameras/sensors).
Motorway: Quiet, stable, cruise control standard on most.
Country roads: Not sporty, but safe and predictable. Suspension tuned for comfort.

What to Check Before You Buy

Service history: Annual stamps, recent oil/filter changes, any major repairs.
MOT history: Look for advisories on tyres, brakes, emissions, suspension.
All electronics: Test infotainment, windows, lights, air con, cameras.
Tyres and brakes: Uneven wear may signal alignment issues.
Test drive: Listen for unusual noises, check clutch bite, ensure smooth gear changes.
Check for recalls: Ask seller or check online with reg number.

Used Prices (UK Guide)

2014–2017: £6,500–£10,000 (high miles, older spec)
2018–2020: £10,500–£15,000 (mid mileage, well-equipped)
2021–2023: £16,000–£22,000 (low miles, nearly new, hybrid options)
Latest models: £22,000–£28,000+ (top trims, hybrid, under 20k miles)

Prices vary by trim, mileage, service history, and location. Shop around and don’t be afraid to negotiate.

FAQs

Q: Is the Nissan Qashqai reliable as a used buy?
A: Yes—especially petrols and newer hybrids. Diesels are reliable if serviced and used for longer journeys.

Q: Is it expensive to run?
A: No—good fuel economy, affordable parts, and competitive insurance.

Q: Can I fit three child seats across the back?
A: It’s tight—two Isofix seats fit easily; three across is a squeeze unless using slimline models.

Q: Does it tow well?
A: Yes—diesel models tow up to 1,500kg+, petrols a bit less. Always check your specific model’s rating.

Q: What’s the best trim?
A: N-Connecta and Tekna are the sweet spot for kit and value.

Conclusion

A used Nissan Qashqai remains one of the UK’s best all-round family cars—practical, efficient, and well-equipped. Pick a model with full history, check for common issues, and you’ll enjoy years of comfortable, stress-free motoring. Whether you’re upgrading from a hatchback or downsizing from a big SUV, the Qashqai is a smart, sensible, and stylish choice.

Nissan Qashqai Car Finance