The compact SUV segment in Australia is fiercely competitive, with buyers looking for a balance of affordability, safety, comfort, and modern technology. Among the strongest contenders is the 2025 Nissan Qashqai, a vehicle that has consistently been one of Nissan’s best-selling models across Europe and Australia. The latest generation brings smarter features, bold design cues, and improved driving dynamics that aim to make it a standout choice for families, city drivers, and tech-savvy buyers.

In this in-depth review, we’ll cover every angle of the 2025 Nissan Qashqai—from its design and performance to interior comfort, safety, technology, running costs, and comparisons with rivals. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of whether this compact SUV deserves a spot in your driveway.

Exterior Design: Bold Yet Practical

The 2025 Nissan Qashqai wears a sharper, more modern design compared to its predecessor, taking inspiration from Nissan’s “V-Motion” design language.

• Front Fascia:
  The grille is wider and flanked by slim LED headlights with daytime running lights that extend along the bonnet, giving it a premium SUV presence despite its compact footprint.
• Side Profile:
  With sculpted body lines, a floating roof design, and alloy wheels available up to 20 inches, the Qashqai strikes a balance between sportiness and everyday practicality.
• Rear End:
  The wraparound LED taillights and a slightly raised stance emphasize its SUV identity. A power tailgate (available on higher trims) adds convenience for families loading groceries, prams, or sports gear.
• Practical Touches:
  Ground clearance of around 190mm means it can handle light off-road conditions, gravel roads, and weekend getaways.

While it isn’t a rugged 4x4, the Qashqai is designed to appeal to urban and suburban buyers who want style without sacrificing practicality.

Interior & Comfort: Premium Feel in a Compact SUV

Step inside, and the 2025 Qashqai feels more premium than ever. Nissan has focused on delivering a refined cabin that rivals even some luxury crossovers.

• Seating:
  Supportive seats feature Nissan’s “Zero Gravity” design for long-drive comfort. Higher trims get quilted leather upholstery with heating and ventilation options.
• Space:
  Despite being a compact SUV, the Qashqai offers ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The flat rear floor makes seating three across more comfortable.
• Cargo Capacity:
  The boot measures around 430–450 litres, expanding to over 1,400 litres with rear seats folded. This makes it practical for family trips or IKEA runs.
• Quiet Cabin:
  Improved insulation and double-glazed windows (on top trims) make the cabin quiet at highway speeds, enhancing comfort for long-distance driving.

Technology & Infotainment

One of the strongest selling points of the 2025 Qashqai is its tech package, which feels tailor-made for Australian drivers who value connectivity and convenience.

• Infotainment System:
  A large 12.3-inch touchscreen supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus built-in navigation with real-time traffic updates.
• Driver Display:
  A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is customisable and provides clear readouts for speed, navigation, and driver-assist features.
• Head-Up Display (HUD):
  Available on higher trims, it projects speed, navigation, and safety alerts directly onto the windscreen.
• Connectivity:
  Wireless charging, multiple USB-C ports, and Wi-Fi hotspot functionality make it easy for families to stay connected on the go.
• Sound System:
  The optional Bose premium audio system enhances road trips and commutes alike with crisp sound quality.

These features put the Qashqai ahead of many rivals in terms of tech convenience.

Performance & Driving Dynamics

The 2025 Nissan Qashqai is designed for city agility with enough power for highways and light touring.

• Engine Options:
  In Australia, the primary engine is a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol producing around 116–120kW and 270Nm of torque. It’s paired with a CVT automatic transmission.
• Hybrid Powertrain (e-Power):
  The standout option is Nissan’s e-Power hybrid system, which uses a petrol engine as a generator to power an electric motor. This setup delivers smooth, EV-like driving without needing to plug in.
• Fuel Efficiency:
  The petrol model averages 6.1–6.5L/100km, while the e-Power hybrid offers around 5.0L/100km, making it one of the most efficient compact SUVs.
• Handling:
  Built on the Renault-Nissan CMF-C platform, the Qashqai benefits from improved suspension and a stiffer chassis, providing confident handling in corners.
• Driving Modes:
  Eco, Normal, and Sport modes let drivers customise their experience. The hybrid also adds regenerative braking for extra efficiency.

For everyday Australian driving—whether in city traffic, suburban school runs, or highway commutes—the Qashqai feels refined and confident.

Safety: ANCAP 5-Star Confidence

Safety remains a key factor for Australian buyers, and the 2025 Qashqai doesn’t disappoint. It has achieved a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.

• Standard Features Include:
  • Autonomous emergency braking (with pedestrian and cyclist detection)
  • Lane keep assist and lane departure warning
  • Blind-spot monitoring with intervention
  • Rear cross-traffic alert
  • Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
  • Traffic sign recognition
  • 360-degree surround-view camera
• Family-Friendly Safety:
  ISOFIX anchors and top-tether points make it easy to secure child seats, and rear-seat occupant alerts ensure no one is left behind.

These features make the Qashqai a reassuring choice for families, young professionals, and seniors alike.

Trim Levels in Australia

The 2025 Qashqai is expected to be offered in four trims locally:

• ST (Base): Essential features at an affordable price.
• ST+: Adds bigger wheels, digital display, and more convenience tech.
• ST-L: Mid-range sweet spot with upgraded safety and comfort.
• Ti: The luxury-focused model with leather, panoramic roof, Bose audio, and advanced driver assistance.

This tiered approach allows buyers to choose a Qashqai that fits both budget and lifestyle.

Ownership & Running Costs

Australian buyers are increasingly cost-conscious, and the Qashqai aims to provide affordable ownership.

• Warranty: 5 years/unlimited km (standard in Australia).
• Servicing: Nissan offers capped-price servicing with intervals of 10,000–15,000 km.
• Insurance Costs: Being a compact SUV with good safety ratings, premiums are generally reasonable.
• Resale Value: Qashqai models tend to hold value well thanks to Nissan’s strong reputation.

The hybrid option is particularly appealing for buyers wanting lower fuel bills without the higher upfront costs of a fully electric SUV.

How the Qashqai Compares to Rivals

In Australia’s crowded compact SUV segment, the Qashqai faces stiff competition.

• Toyota Corolla Cross: Reliable and fuel-efficient, but Nissan’s tech package feels fresher.
• Hyundai Kona: Sportier in design, but Qashqai offers more space and practicality.
• Mazda CX-30: Stylish and fun to drive, but Qashqai has better rear passenger comfort.
• Kia Seltos: Affordable with strong value, though Nissan has more premium features.

For buyers wanting a balance of style, comfort, and smart tech, the Qashqai is among the strongest choices.

Who Should Buy the 2025 Nissan Qashqai?

• Young Families: Safe, spacious, and efficient.
• City Professionals: Compact enough for urban streets, loaded with tech.
• Downsizers: Comfortable and practical without being oversized.
• Eco-Conscious Buyers: The hybrid offers strong efficiency without range anxiety.

Final Verdict

The 2025 Nissan Qashqai represents a significant step forward in Australia’s compact SUV market. With smarter technology, improved fuel efficiency, premium comfort, and top-tier safety, it strikes an excellent balance for diverse Australian lifestyles.

Whether you’re upgrading from a hatchback, downsizing from a larger SUV, or simply want a stylish yet practical compact SUV, the Qashqai deserves to be high on your shortlist.

It’s not the cheapest option, nor the most rugged, but for everyday Australian driving, the 2025 Nissan Qashqai might just be the perfect all-rounder.