How the 2017 Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dCi Stacks Up: Specs and Review

The 2017 Nissan Qashqai arrived at a time when compact crossovers were still finding their voice. Nissan chose a modest‑size diesel engine – the 1.5 dCi – to keep things affordable without sacrificing everyday usability. Below we break down the numbers, explore how the car feels on real roads, and point out the quirks that might matter to you.

Engine and Performance

The heart of this Qashqai is a 1,498 cc inline‑four turbocharged diesel. It delivers 109 hp at 3,800 rpm and a healthy 260 Nm of torque, which arrives low – around 1,800 rpm. In practice, that means you won’t have to blip the revs to melt away in town traffic.

• 0‑60 km/h: roughly 10.5 seconds
• Top speed: 185 km/h (electronically limited)
• Transmission: 6‑speed manual or optional Xtronic CVT

The CVT feels smoother on highway cruising, but some drivers report a slight “rubber‑band” sensation during hard acceleration. The manual, meanwhile, offers a more engaging feel, especially when you need that extra push on a steep climb.

Fuel Economy – What to Expect at the Pump

One of the main selling points of the 1.5 dCi is its frugal nature. Nissan’s official figures list 4.9 L/100 km (combined), but real‑world tests usually settle around 5.3–5.6 L/100 km, depending on driving style.

City driving with frequent stops can nudge the figure higher, while steady cruising on the motorway brings it down close to the quoted numbers. Keep in mind that tyre pressure, load and even the use of the climate control can shift consumption by a few tenths of a litre.

Chassis and Ride Comfort

The Qashqai sits on a front‑wheel‑drive platform with a modestly tuned suspension. It strikes a compromise between composure and compliance – bumps are softened, yet the car retains enough body roll to feel planted in corners.

Steering is light‑to‑medium, aided by electric power assistance. It’s not a sports car, but you’ll appreciate the predictability when navigating narrow city streets or parking aisles.

Interior Layout and Build Quality

Inside, the 2017 model feels a step up from its predecessor. Soft‑touch plastics are used on the dash and door panels, and the overall design follows a clean, horizontal theme.

• Seating: Cloth upholstery standard, leather optional; decent bolstering for a compact SUV.
• Space: Front passengers enjoy generous headroom; rear seats comfortably fit two adults, though three‑person squeeze is tight.
• Boot capacity: 430 L, expanding to 1,470 L with the rear seats folded flat.

The infotainment system is a 7‑inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, USB, and optional navigation. It’s intuitive enough for daily use, though the graphics feel a tad dated compared with rivals launched a year or two later.

Safety and Driver‑Aid Features

Safety equipment on the 2017 Qashqai includes:

• Dual front airbags, side‑impact curtains, and front‑seat seatbelt pretensioners.
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Anti‑Lock Braking System (ABS) as standard.
• Optional features: rear‑view camera, blind‑spot monitoring, and lane departure warning.

In Euro NCAP testing, the Qashqai earned a solid four‑star rating, reflecting good crash protection but highlighting room for improvement in active safety tech.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Pros

• Efficient diesel engine with ample low‑end torque.
• Comfortable ride suited for long journeys.
• Spacious cabin for its class, especially cargo area.
• Reasonable purchase price and low running costs.

Cons

• CVT can feel disconnected during aggressive acceleration.
• Infotainment graphics lag behind newer rivals.
• Rear‑seat legroom is adequate but not generous.
• Base model lacks some advanced driver‑assist aids.

Who Should Consider the 2017 Qashqai 1.5 dCi?

If you’re after a practical, affordable crossover that doesn’t guzzle fuel, the 1.5 dCi Qashqai makes sense. Families needing a versatile boot, commuters happy with a modest powertrain, and drivers who appreciate a refined but not overly sporty feel will find this model fits nicely.

However, if you prioritize cutting‑edge tech, outright performance, or a more upscale interior, you might look at later iterations or rival models such as the Renault Kadjar or Hyundai Kona.