Nissan Note vs Nissan Qashqai

The Note and Qashqai are two great examples of how Nissan has adopted a different approach to the traditional family car. The former is a cheeky little supermini-MPV that looks great and provides a surprising amount of space given its tiny dimensions.

Replacing the dull Almera, the bigger Qashqai is a fresh alternative to the Ford Focus. But with its SUV-inspired styling, it’s just as unconventional as its smaller brother. And although I’m very fond of my long-term Note, I was keen to see what advantages the newcomer offered.

Unlike many of my colleagues, space isn’t a huge factor for me. Even though the Note’s boot isn’t that large – at 280 litres – I rarely struggle for room. I’m sure I would find the extra 130 litres in the Qashqai very useful, but this wouldn’t be enough to persuade me to pay an extra £3,000.

The same goes for the interior. While I like the controls in the Qashqai, I found the centre console restrictive, especially when you have a passenger in the front. The Note feels more airy and spacious.

Yet this isn’t especially surprising. On first impressions, the family hatch seems bigger, no doubt due to its chunky styling. But when the two cars are parked side-by-side, the height difference isn’t so obvious – there’s only 65mm between them.

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Still, the Qashqai name is much more masculine than Note, which appeals to my other half, Dave. He also prefers the higher driving position, while the extra boot space in the hatch makes a big difference – he’s able to fit his golf clubs in without having to fold down the rear seats.

My daughter Natasha is equally keen on the Qashqai, as she finds the back seats more comfortable. Yet with three teenagers inside, the Qashqai is less accommodating; the transmission tunnel restricts legroom for the occupant in the middle rear seat.

Up front, I like the higher driving position in the hatch, but for nipping around town the Note is better. Its 1.6-litre petrol engine is peppy; the diesel in the Qashqai is noisy and it seems to be a sluggish performer.

On the road, the Note’s lighter kerbweight means it’s nearly as composed and feels more nimble. The keyless entry is another great feature – it really comes into its own when you’ve got arms full of shopping.

It’s not as stylish as the Qashqai, but I think the supermini-MPV is still a funky-looking model which pushes its family rival hard in terms of practicality. It’s also great value for money – and in my opinion, one of the best small cars you can buy.

Would I trade up?
NO. The Qashqai isn’t much more practical and the Note is a better car to drive around town. I wouldn’t pay the £3,000 extra.