2021 Nissan Qashqai e-Power Review – Where EV Feel Meets Petrol Freedom
Buckle up—this isn’t your everyday SUV. The 2021 Nissan Qashqai e-Power is a clever take on hybrid tech: an electric driving experience powered by a petrol generator. It’s the best of both worlds—without ever plugging in.
Performance & Powertrain
- The Qashqai e-Power uses a 1.5 L variable-compression petrol engine that generates electricity for a 190 PS electric motor driving the wheels—making it a series hybrid.
- It rockets from 0–62 mph in 7.9 seconds, with a top speed near 105 mph.
- The “linear tune” system helps maintain smooth drive transitions, and the i-Pedal regenerative braking simulates one-pedal driving.
Fuel Economy & Efficiency
- Official combined consumption figures range from 52 to 55 mpg with 116–122 g/km CO₂.
- In the real world, testers have seen 60 mpg in town, around 40 mpg on the motorway , while others reported up to 70 mpg (and sometimes as low as 40 mpg).
- It’s refined and far quieter than regular hybrids, especially in stop-start city driving.
Ride & Handling
- The Qashqai delivers a comfy, composed ride, though the steering stays light and bendy roads reveal modest body roll—this one’s built more for comfort than corner carving.
Interior, Tech & Practicality
- The cabin has a modern yet practical feel, with soft-touch finishes on higher trims and standout tech—including a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital dials, Google-powered infotainment, and Nissan’s revered ProPILOT ADAS.
- Practical touches abound: rear doors open wide (85°), the cabin feels spacious, and the boot offers around 500 L, expanding up to 1,447 L with seats folded—none of which is lost to the e-Power system.
- Some reviewers note that cabin layout can feel a bit dated, and not as sleek as rival SUVs like the Sportage—but overall ergonomics are sensible and user-friendly.
Safety & Tech Highlights
- Comes equipped with extensive driver-assist tech: ProPILOT with Navi-link, blind-spot warnings, moving-object detection, and flank protection – all enhancing urban safety.
Owner Feedback & Known Issues
- Many owners love the power and practicality: “The Qashqai e-Power is a great car… Off the lights it takes off… a good-looking car and a decent boot too.”
- However, a few recurring problems surface:
- Some have experienced “E-Power System fault. Unable to restart after power off” warnings, which can return even after dealer resets .
- Other complaints include issues like flat battery drain when idle for days, or motor generator failures, especially in early models.
- Mixed reliability ratings—with some owners calling it “unreliable money pit” while others remain loyal to the model.
Verdict
The 2021 Nissan Qashqai e-Power is a smart, eco-savvy family SUV that delivers seamless electric-like driving, excellent fuel economy, and refined comfort. Just be sure to check individual history and warranty records due to some reported reliability quirks. If you want quiet performance, practicality, and advanced tech—without needing to plug it in—this crossover deserves your attention.
Where to Buy (UK)
Used Nissan Qashqai vehicles:
Consider browsing these platforms for used Qashqai listings:
- Autotrader UK
- eBay Motors (UK)
- CARWOW (Used section)
- Gumtree UK
- Motors.co.uk
These sites consistently offer a wide range—from early e-Power units to later mild-hybrids and petrol models.
New Nissan Qashqai models (available new at dealerships):
- Stratstone Nissan – Trusted service and stock across UK.
- Sytner Nissan – Premium showroom experience.
- Arnold Clark Nissan – Wide coverage and solid deals.
- Listers Nissan – Friendly, well-reviewed customer service.
- Marshall Nissan – Competitive pricing and support.
Enjoy the hunt! The Qashqai e-Power might just be the clever crossover you’ve been searching for.