SUV showdown: Auto Express names the New Nissan Qashqai road test winner

The industry experts at Auto Express recently tried out two popular compact SUVs, and their thorough review is invaluable in helping you decide which is better: the New Nissan Qashqai or the Kia Sportage. Read the full review here or check out our summary below.

The backstory

The Nissan Qashqai has been a bestseller in the UK and Europe for years, and while the model was once considered the undisputed champion of the compact crossover segment, increased competition has threatened its supremacy. In 2024 to date, it’s the third bestselling new car in the UK behind the Ford Puma and the Kia Sportage, making the decision a tough one for prospective buyers. In their review, Auto Express ask: “Nissan’s Qashqai once ruled the crossover kingdom, but lost its crown to rivals such as the Kia Sportage. Can the new version regain the throne?”

The New Nissan Qashqai claps back

The New Nissan Qashqai continues to build on its pioneering legacy, boasting sleek design updates, improved fuel efficiency and a range of high-tech features designed for modern drivers.

According to Auto Express, one of the New Nissan Qashqai’s standout qualities was its innovative e-POWER hybrid system, which combines a petrol engine with an electric motor. Unlike conventional hybrids, the petrol engine acts solely as a generator to power a 187bhp electric motor via a 2.1kWh battery. This set-up provides the instant acceleration of an electric vehicle while retaining the convenience and flexibility of petrol refuelling.

The publication also praised the New Nissan Qashqai for its tweaks to the interior, focusing on enhanced perceived quality. They highlighted the N-Connecta trim as boasting impressive kit at a competitive price.

They summarised:

“It’s the first win for the Mk3 Nissan Qashqai in an Auto Express comparison test, an impressive turnaround considering previous results. The great hybrid powertrain helps secure the victory, while the small revisions in this mid-life update boost its appeal.

“But the key factor behind the win is its improved value for money; strong finance offers make it cheaper than ever. A win against a Sportage, one of our class favourites, is a big coup. Its strong sales run deserves to continue even further. “

Making room

Turning to the runner-up, the review concluded that the Kia Sportage’s hybrid system “isn’t as sophisticated as its rival’s, and in terms of refinement and fuel efficiency, it lags behind the Qashqai.” But it did highlight the Sportage’s prowess when it comes to boot space, which is worth noting if this is important to you.

While both cars are strong contenders, the New Nissan Qashqai’s advantage reinforces its status as a reliable choice for families and everyday drivers.

The verdict

In conclusion, the comparison between the New Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage underscores just how far the compact SUV segment has come. So if you’re wondering which is the best SUV to buy in 2024, struggling to pick from the top choices is arguably a very good problem to have!

As champions of this flagship model, Team Arbury are delighted to see the New Nissan Qashqai come out on top in this recent comparison. While the Sportage is undoubtedly an excellent vehicle, the New Nissan Qashqai has the edge with its comfort, safety and legacy. It’s brilliant to see how Nissan continue to innovate and refine this model over the years.

While the New Nissan Qashqai’s boot is smaller, we agree with Auto Express that “the space on offer is still comfortably bigger than in the vast majority of traditional family hatchbacks”.

Prospective buyers may find themselves torn in a few directions, but if you’d like to experience the New Nissan Qashqai difference for yourself, why not come along to Arbury, Nissan in Leamington Spa or Bromsgrove today? Our team are here to assist with any questions and competitive financing deals to help you make an informed decision on the best hybrid SUV.

Thinking of buying a New Nissan Qashqai?

Are you considering your next vehicle and are doing a bit of shopping about for your perfect new hybrid SUV? You’ve likely arrived here as you might be considering buying the New Nissan Qashqai and are weighing up the pros and cons against the Kia Sportage. You can read the full Auto Express review here.

Team Arbury are ready and waiting to answer all your questions and book you in for a test drive in the New Nissan Qashqai. We hope to see you soon!