The 2022 Nissan Qashqai may have passed the peak of its market hype, but it continues to remain a practical and versatile choice for families and urban drivers alike. With its combination of compact SUV proportions, clever interior packaging, and updated tech, the Qashqai manages to feel modern and capable despite the fierce competition from rivals such as the Skoda Karoq, Peugeot 3008, and the new Kia Sportage.
Nissan’s approach with the Qashqai emphasizes usability over flash, delivering a vehicle that is easy to drive in daily life, spacious enough for passengers and cargo, and well-equipped with features that make city commuting and weekend getaways comfortable. The 2022 model also introduces the e-Power hybrid variant, bringing a fresh level of efficiency without compromising the practicality that made the Qashqai a long-standing favorite in its class.
Our Take
The Nissan Qashqai 2022 excels as a versatile family SUV that prioritizes practicality and comfort. It is not the sportiest or most luxurious vehicle in its segment, but it consistently delivers on reliability, interior quality, and thoughtful features. The new e-Power hybrid adds a compelling twist, providing near-electric driving smoothness and efficiency without the need for plug-in charging.
At Cardrav, we view the Qashqai as a competent all-rounder. Its cabin space, cargo capacity, and modern infotainment system are strong selling points for families, while the well-tuned suspension ensures daily drives remain comfortable. Though it lacks the high-octane thrills of sportier competitors, the Qashqai’s charm lies in its balance — a vehicle that can serve as a practical daily driver while still feeling pleasant and composed on longer trips.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Practical and spacious interior for passengers and cargo
- Available e-Power hybrid model for improved efficiency and smoother driving
- Updated infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Comfortable ride quality across wheel sizes
- Generous standard safety and driver-assistance features
Cons
- Fuel economy of standard petrol engines could be better
- Not particularly sporty or thrilling to drive
- Infotainment and instrument cluster feel slightly dated compared to segment leaders
- Some premium features limited to higher trims
- Styling conservative compared to more aggressive rivals
What’s New for 2022
- Introduction of the e-Power hybrid variant, offering electric-motor-style smoothness with a petrol generator
- Updated interior materials and improved infotainment system across most trims
- Standard driver-assistance features now more comprehensive, including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring
- Higher trims receive premium options such as quilted leather seats and Bose audio
- Subtle exterior updates to lighting, wheel designs, and trim details to refresh the appearance
Exterior Design
The 2022 Nissan Qashqai takes a more mature and upscale approach to styling than previous generations. While earlier models focused primarily on practicality, this version introduces sharper body lines, a wider stance, and a more confident road presence that helps it compete with newer rivals in the crowded compact SUV segment.
At the front, Nissan’s signature V-Motion grille gives the Qashqai a stronger identity, while the slim LED headlights add a modern touch. The sculpted hood and pronounced wheel arches create a more athletic appearance without sacrificing the crossover’s family-friendly character. Higher trims benefit from larger alloy wheels and additional exterior detailing that elevate the overall design.
From the side, the Qashqai maintains balanced proportions that make it easy to maneuver in urban environments while still offering enough visual presence to feel substantial on the highway. The floating-roof effect and contrasting trim elements add some sophistication without becoming overly aggressive.
The rear design is clean and contemporary, featuring redesigned LED taillights and a neatly integrated tailgate. It may not be the most daring SUV in the segment, but the Qashqai succeeds by looking modern, refined, and likely to age well over time.
Driving Experience
The Nissan Qashqai has never attempted to be the most exciting SUV in its class, and the 2022 model stays true to that philosophy. Instead of focusing on sporty handling, Nissan prioritizes predictability, comfort, and ease of use, qualities that matter far more to most family SUV buyers.
Behind the wheel, the Qashqai feels light and approachable. Steering effort is well judged for daily driving, making parking and city maneuvering straightforward. Visibility is generally good, and the elevated seating position provides the confidence many SUV buyers seek.
On winding roads, the Qashqai remains composed and secure, though it lacks the sharper responses found in competitors such as the Mazda CX-30 or SEAT Ateca. Body control is respectable, and the suspension manages to maintain stability without becoming overly firm.
The biggest strength of the driving experience is its accessibility. The Qashqai never feels intimidating, demanding, or complicated. Whether navigating busy urban traffic or spending hours on the highway, it consistently delivers a relaxed and confidence-inspiring experience that suits its role as a family-focused crossover.
Performance & Fuel Economy
The 2022 Nissan Qashqai is available with a turbocharged 1.3-liter gasoline engine supported by mild-hybrid technology, offering either 140 or 158 horsepower depending on configuration. While these figures will not impress performance enthusiasts, they provide adequate power for everyday commuting, highway driving, and family duties.
The 158-horsepower version is the more desirable choice, especially when paired with the Xtronic automatic transmission. Acceleration feels smoother, overtaking requires less planning, and the vehicle generally feels more relaxed under load. The manual transmission remains available for buyers who prefer greater involvement, though the automatic better suits the Qashqai’s overall character.
The real highlight of the lineup is the e-Power hybrid model. Unlike conventional hybrids, the gasoline engine primarily acts as a generator while the electric motor drives the wheels. This setup gives the Qashqai a driving feel that is remarkably similar to an electric vehicle, delivering instant responses, smooth acceleration, and impressive refinement in everyday driving situations.
Fuel economy is one of the Qashqai’s strongest attributes. The mild-hybrid models provide respectable efficiency for the segment, while the e-Power variant offers a noticeable improvement, particularly in urban environments where its electrified system can maximize efficiency. For buyers looking to reduce fuel costs without committing to a plug-in hybrid or full EV, the e-Power version represents one of the most appealing options in the compact SUV market.
Interior & Technology
One of the biggest improvements in the 2022 Nissan Qashqai is its cabin. Previous generations were often criticized for feeling functional rather than premium, but this model moves noticeably upmarket. Higher trims feature soft-touch materials, contrast stitching, quilted leather upholstery, and a cleaner dashboard design that helps the Qashqai feel more sophisticated than before.
The front seats are comfortable and supportive, making long journeys easier for both driver and passengers. Upper trims even offer massage functions and additional seat adjustments, features that were once reserved for significantly more expensive vehicles. Rear-seat passengers also benefit from improved legroom and headroom compared to the previous generation, making the Qashqai a more practical family vehicle.
Technology has also taken a major step forward. Most models include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher trims receive larger touchscreen displays, a fully digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, wireless charging, and Amazon Alexa integration. The infotainment system is easy to understand and operate, although some competitors still offer sharper graphics and more modern user interfaces.
Overall, the Qashqai’s interior successfully balances practicality, comfort, and technology, creating a cabin that feels far more competitive than earlier generations.
Ride Comfort & Cabin Refinement
Comfort has always been one of the Nissan Qashqai’s strongest attributes, and the 2022 model continues that tradition. The suspension is tuned primarily for everyday usability, absorbing bumps, potholes, and uneven road surfaces with confidence. Drivers looking for a sporty crossover may prefer alternatives such as the Mazda CX-30, but families will likely appreciate the Qashqai’s more relaxed character.
The choice of wheel size has a noticeable impact on ride quality. Models equipped with smaller wheels generally deliver a smoother and quieter experience, while larger wheels can introduce additional road harshness over rough surfaces. Even so, the overall ride remains composed and comfortable during daily driving.
Cabin refinement is another area where the Qashqai performs well. Wind noise is reasonably controlled at highway speeds, and the e-Power hybrid model is especially impressive in urban environments thanks to its near-silent electric-motor operation. Long-distance journeys feel relaxed, while the supportive seating and improved cabin insulation help reduce fatigue.
Drivers interested in other family-focused SUVs may also want to explore our reviews of the Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, and Toyota RAV4. For official specifications, trim details, and technology information, Nissan provides additional resources through its official Qashqai model information pages. The 2022 Qashqai may not be the most luxurious SUV in its segment, but it delivers the comfort, refinement, and practicality that many families value most.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Safety remains a major selling point for the 2022 Nissan Qashqai. The model earned a five-star safety rating in Euro NCAP testing and performed particularly well in adult and child occupant protection categories.
Nissan equips the Qashqai with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies, many of which are standard across the lineup. Automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, traffic sign recognition, rear automatic braking, and adaptive cruise control all contribute to a safer driving experience.
Higher trims add more advanced technologies, including Nissan ProPilot, which assists with steering, braking, and acceleration during highway driving. Adaptive high-beam headlights are also available, helping improve nighttime visibility without distracting other road users.
While no technology can replace an attentive driver, the Qashqai offers one of the more complete safety packages in the compact SUV segment, making it an appealing option for families prioritizing peace of mind.
Key Strengths and Weaknesses
The greatest strength of the 2022 Nissan Qashqai is its balance. It may not dominate any single category, but it performs well across nearly every area that matters to compact SUV buyers. The spacious cabin, family-friendly practicality, improved interior quality, strong safety credentials, and available e-Power hybrid system create a package that feels thoughtfully engineered for everyday life. It is easy to drive, comfortable on long journeys, and efficient enough to keep ownership costs under control.
Its weaknesses stem primarily from its conservative nature. Drivers seeking excitement behind the wheel may find competitors such as the Mazda CX-30 or SEAT Ateca more engaging. Some infotainment graphics and cabin details still trail the best vehicles in the segment, while the standard gasoline engines can feel underwhelming when pushed hard. Nevertheless, these shortcomings do little to undermine the Qashqai’s core mission as a practical and well-rounded family SUV.
Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?
If we were choosing a 2022 Nissan Qashqai, our recommendation would be the e-Power model in N-Connecta trim. It strikes the ideal balance between technology, comfort, efficiency, and value. The electrified powertrain transforms the driving experience with smoother acceleration and lower fuel consumption, while the N-Connecta trim includes many of the features buyers actually use every day without pushing the price into premium territory.
For shoppers who prefer a conventional powertrain, the 158-horsepower mild-hybrid model paired with the automatic transmission is the next best choice. It offers enough performance for everyday driving while maintaining the refinement and practicality expected from a modern family SUV.
Should You Buy It?
The 2022 Nissan Qashqai succeeds because it understands its audience. Rather than chasing sports-car handling or luxury-brand prestige, it focuses on delivering the qualities most families genuinely need: comfort, practicality, efficiency, technology, and safety. The result is a compact SUV that feels mature, well-rounded, and easy to live with every day.
While rivals may outperform it in specific areas, few offer such a complete package at a competitive price point. The introduction of the e-Power hybrid system further strengthens the Qashqai’s appeal by providing an experience that feels remarkably close to driving an electric vehicle without the challenges of charging infrastructure. For buyers seeking a dependable, comfortable, and versatile family SUV, the 2022 Nissan Qashqai remains one of the strongest choices in its class.
FAQ
Is the 2022 Nissan Qashqai a good family SUV?
Yes. The Qashqai offers a spacious cabin, practical cargo area, strong safety ratings, and a comfortable ride, making it an excellent choice for families.
What is the best 2022 Nissan Qashqai model?
The e-Power N-Connecta trim provides the best balance of value, efficiency, technology, and comfort.
Is the Nissan Qashqai e-Power worth buying?
Absolutely. The e-Power system delivers smoother performance, improved fuel economy, and a driving experience that feels similar to an electric vehicle.
How reliable is the 2022 Nissan Qashqai?
The Qashqai has a strong reputation for reliability and is equipped with comprehensive safety and driver-assistance technologies.
Which competitors should I consider alongside the Nissan Qashqai?
Strong alternatives include the Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, Toyota RAV4, Peugeot 3008, and Skoda Karoq.
Does the 2022 Nissan Qashqai have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Most trims include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, making smartphone connectivity simple and convenient.
