I remember first seeing and then driving the Nissan Qashqai back in 2007. After
getting my tongue around its name and its spelling added to my motoring lexicon,
the sheer ease of living with this elevated hatchback, with SUV overtones, was a
revelation. While one could only wonder why it wasn’t done previously, other
manufacturers very quickly sharpened their pencils, resulting in sub-segments being
added to the major sales categories – the crossover was born.
Nissan Ireland unveiled their third generation Qashqai back in 2021, this refreshed
model now coming with their 1.5 e-Power and 1.3 litre mild hybrid, which will no
doubt add to the almost 60,000 units Irish drivers have given homes to since Nissan
created that crossover segment.
Those opting for the new refreshed Qashqai, will get exterior restyling, a wide range
of updates to the infotainment and connected services on-board, plus a refined
interior design. While others have jumped on the Crossover bandwagon, the original
Qashqai revolutionised the carriage of families and still holds a high place on the test
card for any buyer in this class.
Qashqai 2025
Make: Nissan
Model: Qashqai
Style:5-Door, 5-Seat Crossover
Drive System: Front Wheel Drive – no 4x4 variant
Engine: 1.3 litre, 4-cylinder mild-hybrid & 1.5 litre, 3-cyclinder
Transmission: 1.3 Litre Manual or CVT Automatic: 1.5 Litre Single speed electric
drive Automatic
Power: 1,5 E-Power 190bhp: 1.3 Mild Hybrid 158bhp
Torque: 1.5 E-Power 330Nm: 1.3 Mild Hybrid 270Nm
Boot Space: 504 litres, expanding to 1,447 litres with rear seats folded
Test Car Price:
Introductory Price: €39,900
Length: 4425mm
Width: 2084mm including mirrors
Height: 1625mm
Outside View
The differences in this refreshed model, against the model it replaces, is a bit of a
nerd test, the new model a tad more muscular and sharper looking. The front grille
has been completely modernised to create a more striking first impression. New
headlights bring a sense of purpose and presence, and the rear bumper has also been
reshaped to deliver an all-round sleeker and sportier look.
Inside Story
The refreshed Qashqai has Google built-in as part of the Nissan Connect
infotainment system. The updated car comes as standard with Google Maps, while
Google Assistant allows drivers to use their voice for hands free help on the go and to
access an ecosystem of apps that are available for download on Google Play.
The Around View Monitor system, which is one of the most used features on the
Qashqai, has been significantly upgraded. It now features a 3D function allowing the
driver to see the car not only from above but also from eight different external
camera view-points to potentially identify any unseen exterior hazards.
A feature known as ‘invisible hood view’ allows the driver to see the position of the
front wheels as if looking at them from just behind, which enables them to precisely
manoeuvre into tight locations, such as multi-story car parks. AVM tech can also be
used to help drivers make a safe entry from a difficult exit onto a road where
visibility is limited.
The interior of the new Qashqai has been upgraded to offer a more premium feel.
The upper grades feature a new application of AlcantaraÒ on the dashboard, door
inserts, door armrests, centre storage lid and knee pads to elevate the onboard
experience, along with updated seat trims.
Always driven by electric power
This 2025 Qashqai is available with the 1.5 litre, 3-cylinder e-POWER, Nissan’s
electrified powertrain, where the petrol engine charges a battery that powers an
electric motor which makes it possible to drive the car in EV mode 100% of the time.
This allows drivers can enjoy an EV like experience without having to think about
range or recharging. Producing a combined 187bhp, with CVT transmission,
Qashqai Mild-Hybrid
Customers seeking to take their first step towards electrified driving can also choose
the new Qashqai mild hybrid which uses a petrol engine to power the wheels while a
lithium battery provides support. The system stores energy to power the vehicle’s
electrical equipment and to lower fuel consumption.
Qashqai 1.3 Mild Hybrid Prices:
SV Grade - from €39,900
SV Premium Grade - from €43,300
SV Tech Grade – from €46,300
Customers looking for CVT transmission, can option it from €43,400 for the SV
grade, from €46,800 for the SV Premium grade, from €49,800 for the SV Tech
grade, and from €52,700 for the SVE grade.
The Qashqai e-POWER comes in with four grades:
The entry grade SV model is available from €45,000.
The SV Premium grade is priced from €48,400,
The SV Tech grade from €51,400
The top of the range SVE grade from €54,400.
Standard features across the range, include:
Alloy wheels
Full LED headlights
Auto headlights with high beam assist
Rain sensing wipers.
Standard safety features also include:
Rear parking sensors
Blind spot warning and intervention
Traffic sign recognition
Intelligent Cruise Control
Intelligent Forward Collision Warning
Intelligent Front Emergency Braking with pedestrian, cyclist and junction
assist.