Nearly new buying guide: Nissan Qashqai

For higher mileage, the 1.5 dCi diesel is more suitable. It’s a flexible, refined and willing unit. It’ll cruise the motorway all day long and return up to 56mpg. 

There are five trim levels, ranging from Visia to Tekna+. Visia is generous, with four electric windows, a 5.0in infotainment system and air-con. (Acenta, the next up, gets dual-zone climate control.) Further up the range, N-Connecta adds a safety pack and Tekna brings leather upholstery, a Bose audio system and even more safety kit. Newer rivals such as the Seat Ateca may be more polished in every area but a Mk2 Qashqai fits more pockets. 

BUYER BEWARE

Engine Turbo failures have been reported on some petrol models, symptoms being blue-black smoke, a whistling noise from the engine and poor performance. The 1.2-litre petrol engine likes a drink, so check the oil level and be concerned if it's low. The same engine can suffer with a noisy timing chain under hard acceleration and an unreliable stop-start system.

Transmission If viewing a four-wheel-drive model, check that it doesn't slip out of reverse gear. The CVT automatic gearbox isn't the most reliable, so check it operates smoothly.

Battery Many early Qashqais (2014-16) experienced battery problems (Nissan blamed its supplier) so check invoices to see if it has been replaced.

Recalls The Qashqai has been the subject of many recalls, so check they've been actioned.

Suspension The rear shock absorbers have a history of failing. Signs include a bumpy, uncontrolled ride accompanied by odd noises.  

Body Water ingress can cause the parking sensors to malfunction.

Interior Check the air con works because the compressor can fail and repairing or replacing it isn't cheap.

Need to know

The Qashqai’s optional automatic Xtronic gearbox is a CVT (continuously variable transmission). Such gearboxes can often make a car sound revvy and breathless but, when paired with the impressively torquey 1.6 dCi diesel engine, the Qashqai’s is much less vocal and pretty lively with it. 

The panoramic sunroof was a £400 option and is well worth seeking out. It’s standard on Black Edition models launched in 2016 but you’ll find it across most versions. It floods the cabin with light and gives the whole plot a welcome lift. 

Only diesel Qashqais from 2015 on are Euro 6 compliant, so a Mk2 launch model could cost you dear if you want to enter areas such as London’s ultra-low-emissions zone.