Overview
Overview
The Nissan Qashqai has long been a favourite among Irish drivers — and for good reason. It’s become a go-to SUV for families, commuters, and just about anyone looking for a stylish, reliable car that fits into everyday life. Now, it’s back with a fresh update for 2025 — and it’s better than ever. Whether you opt for the mild hybrid or the more advanced e-POWER model, the Qashqai delivers real-world efficiency, quiet refinement, and everyday practicality.
Pros
- Smooth, refined e-POWER driving experience
- Clever Google infotainment system
- Quality interior with plush materials
- Outstanding rear door access (nearly 90°!)
Cons
- Entry pricing is creeping higher than previous models
- Slightly smaller boot than rivals
Exterior
The headline act is Nissan’s e-POWER system — a clever hybrid setup where the 1.5L petrol engine acts purely as a generator for the battery and motor. That means the Qashqai drives like an EV: smooth, quiet, and responsive. With 190hp and 330Nm of torque, it feels quick off the mark and refined at motorway speeds.
There are multiple driving modes including Eco, Standard and Sport, along with a “B mode” for increased regenerative braking, and even a one-pedal drive feature (e-Pedal Step) for relaxed city driving.
With no traditional gearbox, it feels incredibly seamless on the road — none of the whine or lag you might expect from a CVT.
Exterior
Interior
Inside, the Qashqai impresses with a cabin that feels robust and upmarket. This top-spec SVE model gets quilted leather seats with Alcantara inserts, ambient lighting, and soft-touch materials across the dash and doors — a real step up from some competitors.
Tech-wise, the new 12.3" central display now runs Google’s built-in operating system, giving you access to Google Maps, Assistant and more — even saying “Hey Google” will let you adjust air con or open the windows. There’s also a fully digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay, USB-C charging front and rear, and wireless phone charging.
Crucially, Nissan has kept tactile knobs for climate control, which everyday drivers will appreciate — not everything has to go touchscreen!
Rear passengers get plenty of legroom and proper amenities like USB-C ports, air vents, and a centre armrest with cup holders. The pièce de résistance? Those rear doors open almost a full 90°, making child seat access or loading a breeze.
Interior
Performance
The headline act is Nissan’s e-POWER system - a clever hybrid setup where the 1.5L petrol engine acts purely as a generator for the battery and motor. That means the Qashqai drives like an EV: smooth, quiet, and responsive. With 190hp and 330Nm of torque, it feels quick off the mark and refined at motorway speeds.
There are multiple driving modes including Eco, Standard and Sport, along with a “B mode” for increased regenerative braking, and even a one-pedal drive feature (e-Pedal Step) for relaxed city driving.
With no traditional gearbox, it feels incredibly seamless on the road — none of the whine or lag you might expect from a CVT.
There are multiple driving modes including Eco, Standard and Sport, along with a “B mode” for increased regenerative braking, and even a one-pedal drive feature (e-Pedal Step) for relaxed city driving.
With no traditional gearbox, it feels incredibly seamless on the road — none of the whine or lag you might expect from a CVT.
Reliability
Nissan’s reputation for reliability remains strong, and the Qashqai feels solidly built inside and out. The updated model also benefits from a host of active safety systems as standard, including Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Intelligent Cruise Control.
Top trims also feature a head-up display, ProPILOT Assist (semi-autonomous driving support), and a high-resolution surround-view camera system — which is genuinely useful in tight Irish town parking spots.
Reliability
Handling
The Qashqai e-POWER is a clever choice for those looking to keep fuel bills down without going full EV. Nissan claims as low as 5.3L/100km impressive for a petrol-powered SUV.
Tax is reasonable too, with CO2 emissions ranging from 116 - 157g/km, depending on model. And while pricing starts just under €40,000, running costs should stay manageable thanks to the efficient drivetrain and lower maintenance needs versus a traditional petrol or diesel car.
Tax is reasonable too, with CO2 emissions ranging from 116 - 157g/km, depending on model. And while pricing starts just under €40,000, running costs should stay manageable thanks to the efficient drivetrain and lower maintenance needs versus a traditional petrol or diesel car.
Handling
Safety
Safety is a real strong suit here. Nissan includes a comprehensive suite of driver aids even from mid-level SV trim, and the top SVE version throws in everything from adaptive cruise to lane centring and driver attention alert.
We especially liked the digital around-view camera, which makes navigating tight urban spaces much easier. Add in solid crash-test credentials, achieving a five-star rating from Euro NCAP and Nissan's extensive safety assist systems, and it’s easy to trust the Qashqai as your everyday family car.
We especially liked the digital around-view camera, which makes navigating tight urban spaces much easier. Add in solid crash-test credentials, achieving a five-star rating from Euro NCAP and Nissan's extensive safety assist systems, and it’s easy to trust the Qashqai as your everyday family car.
Summary
- Exterior
- 91%
- Interior
- 94%
- Performance
- 90%
- Reliability
- 92%
- Running Costs
- 88%
- Handling
- 89%
- Safety
- 93%
If you're looking for a stylish, tech-packed SUV that makes daily driving smooth, stress-free, and efficient, the updated Nissan Qashqai delivers in all the right areas. With its clever e-POWER system, premium-feel cabin, and a strong lineup of features, it continues to be a top pick for Irish families.
It might not have the biggest boot in the class, but it more than makes up for it with comfort, ease of use, and thoughtful touches — like those wide-opening rear doors and physical controls where they matter.
In short? The Qashqai remains one of the most complete and compelling crossovers you can buy in Ireland today.
It might not have the biggest boot in the class, but it more than makes up for it with comfort, ease of use, and thoughtful touches — like those wide-opening rear doors and physical controls where they matter.
In short? The Qashqai remains one of the most complete and compelling crossovers you can buy in Ireland today.