Nissan Qashqai trims, head to head: Here's our choice

By Ané Theron

The Nissan Qashqai has come a long way since it first launched. No longer just an Almera on wheels, the now-stylish Qashqai is family-friendly and fuel efficient too, with a host of advanced safety features to keep all occupants out of harm's way. But out of the seven Qashqais available, in four different trims, which one should you choose?

But before you start shopping, you should bear in mind that the new Qashqai is set to make its appearance in SA later this year, with rumours of a new 1.3-litre engine (co-developed with the Daimler group) which currently powers the new A-Class. A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is also on the cards, as well as tech and convenience features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Current line-up

Currently, our local fleet of Qashqais is powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine (85kW and 190Nm), or a terrifically frugal 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine (81kW & 260Nm). Not that the 1.2-litre engine is a heavy drinker: it sips the valuable golden liquid rather slowly, using only around 6.2 litres per 100 km on average. But it's the diesel models that get my vote, attaining a figure as low as 4,2 litres per 100 km! And that is precisely the manufacturer's figure too, which isn't always that accurately reflected in real-life driving conditions.

As you can see from the equipment highlights below, Bluetooth, cruise control, hill start assist, an electronic parking brake and a trip computer come standard across the board. But did you know that all Qashqais have not only ABS with EBD and brake assist, but also traction and stability control, a limited slip differential, six airbags and LED headlamps as well? So, if you're trying to save money, the entry-level Nissan Qashqai 1,2T Visia (R351 900) should be more than enough to suit your daily driving needs. 

With the Qashqai's consumption figures looking as good as they do, you should easily squeeze 1000 km out of one 65-litre tank in the 1.2-litre Qashqai.  In the diesel model, you're looking at well over 1400 km! That is, if you drive decently. Bear in mind, however, that you may drive the 1.2-litre slightly harder inland, which may impact your fuel consumption negatively. Here at the coast, the 1.2-litre seemed quite sufficient, power wise.

If you've got your heart set on the diesel model, the Nissan Qashqai 1,5dCi Acenta (R 418 900) comes decently specced too. Personally, I am not mad for the CVT transmission in the automatic models, but unless you're a car nut it probably won't bother you too much.

If your heart desires something more high-tech and you have money to spend, the flagship Nissan Qashqai 1,5dCi Tekna (R460 900, see photos) offers everything but the kitchen sink, including a Bose sound system, 7-inch touchscreen, emergency braking, surround view cameras and moving object detection. Click here to read my review on this model.  

• The Nissan Qashqai also makes our list of top 3 new SUVs for long commutes.
• For a more in-depth understanding of this SUV's grade walk, you can download the Nissan Qashqai spec sheet here.
• For a pre-loved Nissan Qashqai, click here.

The local Qashqai line-up comprises the following models:

1.Nissan Qashqai 1,2T Visia: R351 900

EQUIPMENT INCLUDES:

• Advanced Drive-Assist Display
• Cruise control
• Integrated handsfree Bluetooth
• Hill Start Assist (HSA)
• Electric Parking Brake

2.Nissan Qashqai 1,2T Acenta: R385 900

EQUIPMENT INCLUDES:

• Advanced Drive-Assist Display
• Cruise Control
• Seats with Lumbar Support
• Integrated Handsfree Bluetooth
• Hill Start Assist (HSA)

3.Nissan Qashqai 1,2T Acenta CVT: R 404 900

EQUIPMENT INCLUDES:

• Advanced Drive-Assist Display
• Cruise Control
• Integrated handsfree Bluetooth
• Hill Start Assist (HSA)
• Electric Parking Brake

4.Nissan Qashqai 1,2T Acenta Plus CVT: R 418 900

EQUIPMENT INCLUDES:

• Advanced Drive-Assist Display
• Cruise Control
• Integrated handsfree Bluetooth
• Hill Start Assist (HSA)
• Privacy glass

5.Nissan Qashqai 1,5dCi Acenta: R 418 900

EQUIPMENT INCLUDES:

• Advanced Drive-Assist Display
• Cruise Control
• Integrated handsfree Bluetooth
• Hill Start Assist (HSA)
• Electric Parking Brake

6.Nissan Qashqai 1,5dCi Acenta Plus: R432 500

EQUIPMENT INCLUDES:

• Advanced Drive-Assist Display
• Cruise Control
• Integrated handsfree Bluetooth
• Hill Start Assist (HSA)
• Privacy Glass

7.Nissan Qashqai 1,5dCi Tekna: R460 900

EQUIPMENT INCLUDES:

• Navigation System
• Bose Premium Audio System - 7" touchscreen display
• Intelligent Around View Monitor & Moving Object Detection
• Intelligent Blind Spot Warning
• Cross Traffic Alert
• Intelligent Forward Collision Warning and Emergency Braking