2023 Nissan Qashqai e-Power Review

Today, we're diving into one of the UK's best-selling vehicles, the 2023 Nissan Qashqai e-Power. Month after month, the Qashqai consistently ranks among the top three best-selling cars in the UK. It's easy to see why — this stylish and practical family SUV starts at just £27,000. To put that in perspective, this price gets you a very basic VW Golf, whereas the Qashqai offers a lot more bang for your buck.

But the model we're reviewing today isn't just any Qashqai — it's the e-Power 190 version, a full hybrid that introduces a unique powertrain. Unlike conventional hybrids, the engine in the e-Power never directly drives the wheels. Instead, it acts as a generator, sending power to a battery that then drives the electric motor to turn the wheels. This setup offers an EV-like driving experience with the reassurance of a petrol engine. We'll explore this more in the driving section.

If you're in the market for a reliable family SUV, the Nissan Qashqai deserves its place at the top of your list.

Under the Hood

This Qashqai is powered by a 1.5-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine, claiming 53 MPG, though you'll likely see early 40s in real-world driving. With 188 horsepower, it accelerates from 0-62 mph in 7.9 seconds, making it a solid performer in its class.

Nissan clearly had its target audience in mind with this vehicle. Many Qashqais are bought by Motability customers and young families. A standout feature is the wide rear door opening, which provides excellent accessibility — perfect for installing child seats or assisting someone with limited mobility. This is something few cars in the market offer.

Interior and Build Quality

The build quality is generally high, though there are a few areas where it falls short, such as the fuel cover. The boot offers just over 500 litres of space, making it competitive but not exceptional —certainly a bit smaller than rivals like the Kia Sportage. The space is user-friendly, and there's a false floor for added depth.

Inside, the cabin is a mixed bag. A huge panoramic sunroof floods the interior with light, though the dark headlining and privacy glass can make it feel a bit claustrophobic with the sunshade closed. The material quality is generally good, with ample foot and headroom, though taller passengers might feel a bit cramped due to the sunroof.

In terms of tech, the Qashqai shines. This model features a larger screen than the entry-level version, and it really feels like an upgrade. Wireless Apple CarPlay is a breeze to use, and the screen is bright and responsive. Physical controls for volume and climate settings are a welcome touch, offering a tactile feel that some more premium vehicles lack.

Driving Experience

On the road, the Qashqai e-Power is smooth and refined. The driving experience is quiet and comfortable, although you might notice some odd sounds from the engine when it's acting as a generator. But once you're used to it, the experience is enjoyable.

While it's not a sporty vehicle — there's some body roll around corners — it handles well for a family SUV. The suspension is comfortable, even with the added weight from the batteries, and the 188 horsepower engine feels peppier than you might expect. Despite being front-wheel drive, it offers enough power to make it suitable for both city driving and longer motorway journeys.

Visibility is excellent, with large mirrors and a rearview camera, making parking a breeze. The light steering is great for urban driving, though it might feel a bit disconnected for those who enjoy a more engaging driving experience.

Final Thoughts

The 2023 Nissan Qashqai e-Power is a solid all-rounder. It doesn't excel in any one area, but it does everything well, making it a great choice for families. At a starting price of £27,000, it's competitively priced, and even at higher trims, it offers good value for money.

However, the e-Power version is a bit of a tough sell. While it’s efficient, it doesn’t stand out in terms of fuel economy, and with prices reaching up to £42,000 for a top-spec model, you could be looking at alternatives like the Volvo XC40, Tesla Model 3, or BMW X1. That said, if you're considering a Qashqai as a Motability car or company vehicle, it’s definitely worth a look. If you're in the market for a reliable family SUV, the Nissan Qashqai deserves its place at the top of your list.

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