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The latest evolution of Nissan’s innovative e-POWER technology is already turning heads — and now it’s picking up top marks from the experts too.
Independent road tests from two of the UK’s most respected automotive titles, Auto Express and Parkers, have both crowned the Nissan Qashqai with new e-POWER the winner against key competitors. In each test, Qashqai was pitched against the Kia Sportage, with Auto Express also including the VW Tiguan for good measure.
Auto Express praised the upgraded e-POWER system, describing it as “smoother, more refined and slightly quicker than before, while also delivering excellent real-world efficiency.”
The publication highlighted that the latest Qashqai benefits from significant technical updates to its e-POWER system, designed to improve performance, efficiency and refinement — all without a price increase over the outgoing model.
That combination helped Qashqai secure an impressive four-and-a-half-star rating out of five.
According to Auto Express, Qashqai delivered the best ride of the group, with its unique powertrain setting it apart:
“The Qashqai’s powertrain sets it apart. It has the smoothness, responsiveness and very nearly the refinement of a full EV.”
The tech credentials were also singled out, with Auto Express noting that Qashqai felt the most advanced car on test. Its e-POWER system was judged to be more sophisticated than rival hybrids, while Nissan’s Google-based infotainment system impressed for its speed, clarity and ease of use.
Efficiency was another clear win, with testers achieving an average 52.5mpg, comfortably ahead of the Sportage and Tiguan. Qashqai was also the only model on test to include three years’ breakdown cover, adding extra peace of mind.
Auto Express summed things up by saying Nissan’s e-POWER delivers the feel of an electric car, combined with the flexibility and long range of a petrol engine.
Over at Parkers, the verdict was just as positive. In a head-to-head test with the Kia Sportage, Qashqai was named “king of the hill”, coming out on top for driving experience, efficiency and overall polish.
Parkers praised the Qashqai’s refinement, noting how quietly and smoothly it performs even when driven at pace, and concluded that it easily outclasses the Sportage behind the wheel.
Running costs were another standout point. During testing, Qashqai returned an impressive 53mpg, compared with 43mpg for the Sportage — close to diesel-like efficiency. Parkers estimated this could save the average driver around £200 a year in fuel.
Parkers wrapped up their test by calling Qashqai the best all-rounder in its class, praising its engaging handling, responsive steering and overall enjoyment on the road — and suggesting that its popularity explains why demand continues to be so high.
