Skip advert
Advertisement

Crossover of the Year 2015: Nissan Qashqai

The Nissan Qashqai is the 2015 Auto Express Crossover of the Year, with the Citroen C4 Cactus and Mazda CX-3 commended

The Qashqai kicked off the modern crossover revolution – and it’s still the best. Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, and although many rivals come close, none can knock the Nissan off top spot in this class.

This second-generation model is stronger than ever. The British-built Qashqai has plenty of style, but despite its crisp looks, Nissan hasn’t forgotten its family car roots. It’s a striking alternative to a regular hatchback, and with a big 430-litre boot there’s plenty of space on offer.

Advertisement - Article continues below

This is reflected inside, too, as the cabin is roomy and smart thanks to a sweeping dash design and advanced tech. Foremost among this is Nissan’s clever Safety Shield, which features protective extras such as blind-spot warning, moving object detection and a 360-degree around view camera system, while options include autonomous braking and full LED headlights.

Tech under the bonnet is a match for the rest of the car, as the compact but impressive range of engines returns strong efficiency. The 1.5- litre dCi turbodiesel emits just 99g/km of CO2, meaning you won’t have to pay any road tax. Even the more powerful 1.6 dCi is clean, while the 1.2 DIG-T petrol delivers a good blend of performance and economy, due to its tiny turbo.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

There’s not too much noise from the diesel engines and the soft but composed chassis rides all surfaces with a real composure. It means you can cruise for long distances in lots of comfort, but turn off the motorway and have fun when you want to. Plus with four-wheel drive and auto boxes on offer, there’s plenty of choice, too.

Our choice

Qashqai 1.5 dCi Acenta Premium (£23,730)

Safety Shield technology comes as standard on the Acenta Premium, which represents the best mix of equipment and value. Add in the frugal 1.5-litre diesel engine and the Qashqai is a cost-effective, quality family car which also comes with a real sense of style.

Commended

Citroen C4 Cactus cornering

Citroen C4 Cactus

Citroen’s fresh approach to crossover design still looks great, and the C4 Cactus offers something different again thanks to its fashion-focused interior, unusual design and body-protecting trademark Airbumps. Low prices, frugal engines and a soft ride mean it’s a comfortable crossover that should be on any buyer’s shortlist.

Mazda CX-3 - front tracking

Mazda CX-3

Hitting the market earlier this year, the CX-3 offers everything that we would expect from a Mazda crossover. It’s great to drive with punchy engines and a lovely chassis, plus it also has a practical, premium cabin. Smart looks and efficient engines mean the CX-3 should follow in the larger Mazda CX-5’s successful footsteps.

Auto Express New Car Awards 2015

For complete, in-depth coverage of the New Car Awards 2015, buy your collector's edition copy of the Auto Express magazine now...  

Mag cover awards 2015 issue


in association with

 

Skip advert
Advertisement
Continue Reading

Find a car with the experts

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Best car leasing deals 2025
Best car leasing deals - header image

Best car leasing deals 2025

Find the best car leasing deals with the experts.
Best cars & vans
3 Jul 2025
Nissan Qashqai review
Nissan Qashqai - front tracking

Nissan Qashqai review

The Nissan Qashqai is a big seller, but there’s no key area where it stands out next to rivals
In-depth reviews
27 Jun 2025
Nissan Qashqai e-Power hybrid gets more efficient, powerful and eco-friendly for 2025
Nissan Qashqai e-Power 2025 - front

Nissan Qashqai e-Power hybrid gets more efficient, powerful and eco-friendly for 2025

The mid-size family SUV segment has just got a whole load tougher thanks to Nissan
News
26 Jun 2025
Ford Focus alternatives: ten cars to consider instead of the family hatch icon
Ford Focus alternatives - header image

Ford Focus alternatives: ten cars to consider instead of the family hatch icon

As the Ford Focus prepares to bow out, we suggest some other great cars worthy of your attention
Best cars & vans
6 Jun 2025

Most Popular

Range Rover Sport SV gets massive £35k price drop as it enters series-production
Range Rover Sport SV Black - front

Range Rover Sport SV gets massive £35k price drop as it enters series-production

There’s also a new SV Black trim, and a Range Rover Sport Stealth Package for non SVs
News
1 Jul 2025
Arrivederci Roma: new Ferrari Amalfi slots in as brand’s latest entry-level model
Ferrari Amalfi - front static

Arrivederci Roma: new Ferrari Amalfi slots in as brand’s latest entry-level model

A slick new look and more power are the headlines for Ferrari’s new baby, but it’s probably some simple new buttons that will get customers’ attention
News
1 Jul 2025
Geely is coming to the UK, and its assault will start with EX5 SUV
Geely EX5 - front

Geely is coming to the UK, and its assault will start with EX5 SUV

Geely has looked to Lotus to ensure it's new electric SUV lives up to our driving expectations
News
2 Jul 2025