Nissan Qashqai SUV - Practicality & boot space
A bigger boot and more space inside means the Nissan Qashqai is as practical as its main rivals
Practicality isn’t the most exciting aspect of a new car but SUVs aimed at families need to be capable of carrying lots. The previous Nissan Qashqai was fine but most of its rivals are much more spacious, and many are more versatile as well. With the Qashqai both longer and wider than the car it replaces, it seems Nissan has listened to critics and customers who want a bit more space.
Nissan Qashqai interior space and storage
The latest Qashqai has a longer wheelbase, meaning the front and rear wheels are further apart than they were for the previous model. This has improved the space in the rear, with 20mm more knee room, 28mm more shoulder room and 15mm more headroom, which makes it feel spacious in the back seats. Handily, the new car has doors that open wider than its predecessor too at up to 85 degrees. That makes it easier to put bulky child seats in and for children to get in and out.
Inside, there’s also more storage around the cabin, so you’ll find plenty of places to stash your odds and ends. Meanwhile, the cupholders have been moved so you’re less likely to knock over your drink when changing gear.
Boot space
It had plenty of boot space when it was launched but the last Nissan Qashqai was soon overtaken by more practical rivals. We’re told that a changed rear suspension design has resulted in a lower boot floor and a bigger boot than before. It’ll be noticeably bigger if you currently drive a Qashqai, as both the Visia and Acenta Premium models offer 74 litres more space with a total of 504 litres. In the N-Connecta, Tekna and Premiere Edition trims boot capacity is reduced slightly to 479 litres due to standard fit luggage boards, which allow you to separate the boot into sections: a useful feature if you intend on carrying fragile items. Whichever version you choose, the Qashqai’s increased storage capacity puts it a whisker behind the boot storage capability in the Skoda Karoq and is similar to cars like the Ford Kuga and BMW X1.
The boot floor is reversible and can be raised or lowered, depending on what you need. Raising the boot floor allows you to have a completely flat floor when the rear seats are folded. Doing so frees up 1,447 litres of boot space in lower spec models, falling to 1,422 litres in models fitted with the luggage boards boot floor system. Both of these figures are measured up to the roof of the car.
Towing
Disappointingly, both versions of the mild-hybrid petrol engine are only able to tow 700kg, while some rivals can tow over two tonnes. The Qashqai won’t be suitable if you need to tow a caravan or car trailer.
