Nissan Qashqai

Model Overview

The Nissan Qashqai is a compact crossover SUV from Japanese carmaker Nissan. Since the debut of its first-generation model in 2007, it has been a pioneer and a perennial stalwart in the global SUV market. The Qashqai moniker is derived from the nomadic Iranian "Qashqai" people, symbolising freedom, nomadism, and the spirit of exploration. In 2008, the first-generation Qashqai was locally assembled and introduced to the Chinese market by Dongfeng Nissan under the name "Xiaoke", trailblazing the brand-new "crossover SUV" segment. As of 2026, the Qashqai has entered its third generation. For core markets such as Australia, the 2026 Qashqai has fully transitioned to a hybrid-only line-up, completely discontinuing pure petrol variants. Dimension-wise, it measures 4,425 mm in length, 1,835 mm in width, and 1,625 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,665 mm. On the pricing front, the 2026 Qashqai starts at AUD 45,640 (approx. RM215,000) in Australia; the European-market N-Tec Special Edition e-Power starts from EUR 42,150; in China, the 2025 Xiaoke carried a recommended retail price of RM125,900 to RM134,900, with showroom discounts bringing it down to as low as RM84,900.

Design Language

The 2026 Qashqai showcases a striking exterior redesign. Up front, it sports a brand-new radiator grille inspired by the interlocking scales of traditional Japanese armour, complemented by sharper LED headlamps and daytime running lights (DRLs). The side profile retains its athletic crossover silhouette, with a floating roofline that blends seamlessly into the sleek body contours. In Australia, the 2026 model comes standard with an upgraded 360-degree camera system offering up to eight preset viewing angles. Meanwhile, the UK market has received the Qashqai Black Edition, featuring a stealthy all-black styling package.

Inside, the cabin has undergone a major overhaul. It is fitted with a 12.3-inch floating central touchscreen and a fully digital LCD instrument cluster. The cabin is upgraded with fresh trim inserts and Alcantara leather upholstery, alongside thickened side window glass to improve NVH levels. Top-spec variants add black quilted Nappa leather seats, dual-zone climate control, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and ambient cabin lighting. Nissan's signature "Zero Gravity" seats are standard across the range, delivering outstanding ride comfort. Rear occupants enjoy 160 mm of knee room and a 1,395 mm rear seat width, delivering class-leading passenger space.

Powertrain and Performance

The 2026 Qashqai is offered with multiple powertrain options globally:

e-POWER Electric-Drive Hybrid (Core Line-up) : Powered by an e-Power setup pairing a 1.5L turbocharged inline-three petrol engine with a single electric drive motor. The petrol engine does not drive the wheels directly, functioning purely as an on-board generator to supply electricity to the battery pack. This 1.5L turbo unit features a world-first 13.0:1 ultra-high compression ratio, achieving a thermal efficiency of 42%. The electric motor delivers a maximum output of 140–151 kW (approx. 190–205 PS) , with a peak torque of 311–330 Nm. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. Combined fuel consumption on the WLTC cycle is rated as low as 4.1 L/100 km, with CO₂ emissions reduced to 92 g/km. Fitted with a 55-litre fuel tank, its total driving range reaches up to 1,341 km on a full tank.

1.3L Mild-Hybrid (Europe and Select Markets) : Powered by a Daimler co-developed 1.3L DIG-T four-cylinder turbocharged engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system. It is available in two output states of tune: 140 PS and 158 PS, mated to an Xtronic CVT gearbox. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 6.3 L/100 km.

Chassis and Handling

The 2026 Qashqai is built on a dedicated SUV chassis derived from the Renault-Nissan CMF platform. The suspension setup consists of front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link independent suspension. It also features a class-exclusive full-box subframe that effectively enhances torsional rigidity. Ground clearance stands at approximately 183 mm. In terms of drivetrain, the e-POWER variant is front-wheel drive (FWD), while all-wheel drive (AWD) variants are offered in select markets. Overall driving dynamics are smooth, linear, and matched with precise steering feedback. Boot capacity is rated at 452 litres with the rear seats up, expandable to 1,376 litres with the rear seats folded down.

Cabin and Features

Taking centre stage in the cockpit is a 12.3-inch central touchscreen running the NissanConnect infotainment system, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity. Higher-spec variants add a Head-Up Display (HUD) . For charging devices, the cabin provides four USB-C ports (two in the front and two in the rear).

In terms of comfort and convenience features, it is equipped with dual-zone automatic climate control, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and an intelligent key with walk-away auto-lock . The European-market N-Tec Special Edition comes standard with a Winter Pack—featuring a heated windscreen, a heated steering wheel, and heated front seats. For audio, higher-spec trims are equipped with a premium sound system with DAB+ digital radio and a dedicated subwoofer.

Safety and Intelligent Driving

On the passive safety front, the Qashqai comes standard with dual front, side chest, and curtain airbags, totalling 7 airbags across the range. It holds a five-star ANCAP safety rating (tested in 2021) and a four-star Euro NCAP safety rating (tested in 2025).

For active safety, it is equipped with Nissan's comprehensive safety assist suite, with core features including: Intelligent Emergency Braking (IEB) , Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (I-FCW) , Blind Spot Warning (BSW) , Lane Departure Warning, Emergency Lane Assist (ELA) , Traffic Sign Recognition, Driver Attention Alert, and High Beam Assist, among others.

In terms of driver assistance, it features the ProPILOT intelligent driver assistance system. It also comes equipped with a 360-degree Intelligent Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection, introducing advanced camera views such as Skeleton Hood View (transparent bonnet view)  and a T-Junction wide-angle view.

Market Performance and Reception

Since its introduction in 2007, the Qashqai has been a benchmark in the global compact SUV segment. In Australia, the 2026 lineup's transition to a hybrid-only range has seen the entry-level price increase by roughly AUD 11,000, compensated by complete electrification and higher standard kit. Automotive media have praised the 2026 Qashqai as "sharp-looking, well-equipped, and exceptionally efficient", performing impressively in terms of cabin room, ergonomics, and outward visibility, while noting that it is "clever, but on the pricier side". In China, however, the Nissan Xiaoke faces intense market pressure—recording sales of just 1,723 units in May 2026, marking a significant drop from its peak volumes. With this 2026 facelift, Nissan is aiming to re-establish its competitive edge through an all-e-POWER line-up, a 12.3-inch intelligent cockpit, and the ProPILOT ADAS suite. Within its segment, the Qashqai continues to lock horns with rivals such as the Toyota Corolla Cross, Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30, and MG ZS.