The 2025 Nissan Qashqai is here and ready for a road trip!

The Lake District never disappoints as a starting point for any road trip. With its stunning landscapes and winding roads, it’s a perfect backdrop to test the newest addition to the crossover segment: the Nissan Qashqai Tekna+ 190 e-POWER 2WD. Over the course of our time with this crossover SUV, it quickly proved why it remains a top contender in its class. From its refined design to the innovative technology packed within, this latest iteration of the Qashqai had us eager to hit the road.

As Ben and I packed up for our journey to Bicester for a car launch, we couldn't help but appreciate the thoughtfulness of the Qashqai’s design. Our test model, in a striking Fuji Sunset Red with a black roof, brought an added layer of sophistication that caught eyes even before we set off.

Since its inception in 2007, the Nissan Qashqai has always been a trendsetter. As the original crossover, it introduced a new way of thinking about SUVs. This third generation takes things up a notch, showcasing a redesigned front grille with high-gloss, three-dimensional comma-shaped elements. These stylish "commas" create a dynamic visual flow, highlighted by satin chrome finishes on the higher trims like ours.

The headlights are a masterstroke of design, offering a purposeful edge that blends functionality with style. The daytime running lights now frame the main headlamp units, creating a cohesive, modern aesthetic. The sequential turning lights, available on the N-Design and Tekna+ trims, add an elegant flourish, making the Qashqai stand out on the road, even in bustling traffic.

At the rear, the design complements the bold front fascia. The super red taillights, housed in clear lenses, mirror the “comma” shapes from the front grille. This cohesive design language ties the vehicle together beautifully, giving it a polished, premium look.

Wheel enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either. The Qashqai offers an impressive range of alloy wheels across trims, with our Tekna+ boasting 20-inch diamond-cut alloys. Combined with the floating roof design, the vehicle exudes a sporty yet refined stance.

Step inside, and it’s immediately apparent that Nissan has poured effort into crafting a space that feels upscale and driver-focused. The cabin of the Tekna+ is adorned with Alcantara, covering the dashboard, door inserts, and even the centre console. These soft-touch materials elevate the driving experience, making every journey—be it a quick commute or a long road trip—feel indulgent.

The ambient lighting system adds another layer of luxury, offering 64 colour options that let you customise the cabin’s vibe. Whether you’re driving during the day or cruising at night, the lighting creates a serene atmosphere.

The seating is equally impressive. In the Tekna+ trim, the partially quilted premium leather seats not only look the part but also deliver supreme comfort. Heated front and rear seats ensure that every passenger is treated to a first-class experience, while the driver benefits from a memory function and lumbar support. The attention to detail is evident even in the burnt umber flashes that add a touch of design flair to the interior.

The Qashqai continues to lead in technology. One standout feature is the upgraded Around View Monitor (AVM), which now includes a 3D function. This allows you to view the vehicle from multiple angles, making tricky manoeuvres and parking a breeze. The invisible hood view is a game-changer, offering a clear look at the front wheels—perfect for navigating tight spaces or avoiding kerbs.

The tech doesn’t stop there. The wide-angle front camera is particularly handy for exiting limited-visibility junctions, automatically activating near pre-saved locations via GPS. Voice control through Google Assistant adds convenience, letting you adjust climate settings, navigation, or even heated seats without lifting a finger.

For music lovers, the ecosystem of apps available via Google Play lets you stream your favourite playlists, audiobooks, and podcasts seamlessly. Meanwhile, the NissanConnect Services app ensures peace of mind with alerts for unlocked doors, open windows, and even tampering.

Under the bonnet, the Qashqai Tekna+ houses a 1.5L, three-cylinder petrol/electric engine paired with an automatic transmission. The innovative e-POWER system delivers 190 PS to the front wheels, offering smooth and responsive acceleration. Unlike conventional hybrids, the wheels are driven solely by the electric motor, while the petrol engine works as a generator. This setup provides a refined, quiet ride with impressive efficiency.

On the open road, the Qashqai feels composed and agile. Its light steering and advanced suspension setup ensure a comfortable ride, whether you’re navigating twisty Lake District roads or heading (up or) down the motorway.

No road trip is complete without luggage, and the Qashqai proves its mettle here as well. The 80-litre MegaBox under the boot floor is perfect for storing smaller items out of sight, while the main cargo area accommodates two sets of golf clubs standing upright or the equivalent of a packed shopping trolley. Even with five passengers onboard, there’s more than enough room for weekend essentials.

As we set off from the Lake District, the Qashqai’s Predictive Dynamic Bending Light proved invaluable, illuminating the road ahead with precision during early morning drives. The panoramic 360° camera came in handy when navigating crowded service stations along the way, offering a bird’s-eye view to avoid scrapes.

The Qashqai’s dynamic design turned heads as we rolled into the car launch event. Its coupe-inspired styling, bold grille, and premium finishes easily made it one of the most striking vehicles in attendance.

Whether you’re after the entry-level Acenta Premium or the fully loaded Tekna+, the Qashqai lineup offers something for everyone. Pricing starts at £30,135, with our Tekna+ review model coming in at £38,875. With five trim levels to choose from, it’s easy to find a configuration that suits your needs and budget.

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