The Nissan Qashqai belongs to a class of car known as the 'Crossover' - a car styled like an SUV without being an overly sized gas-guzzler.
Being raised up from the ground a bit means that it's easier to move car seats (and kids) in and out, and is that little bit easier on the back when you've stretching around a child seat to fix or help out with fixing a seatbelt.
The model we drove was a 1.5d XE (known as 1.5d Visia in the north). This is the base model diesel, and is the one we chose based on the cheap running costs (as a Band B, is costs €156 only per year in motor tax in the Republic). We found the build to be excellent, with a well rounded feel of quality (especially given the price of just over €27,000 (ROI) new).
There's plenty of space in the rear, although it's a little bit of a struggle to fit in 3 booster seats side by side. The front passenger seat airbag can be turned off if you're stuck and need to put in a rear facing baby seat.
As it's in effect a hatchback, the boot has plenty of height and width but falls a little short on depth. If you have a over-sized buggy, you'll probably fit it in but it'll be a squeeze if you're packing for a big trip. Rear visibility isn't great for tricky parking so if you're spacially challenged you may want to consider going for the next model up with rear parking sensors.
Safety: the Qashqai scores nearly top points in NCAP for adult passengers, getting 5/5 for adult protection. It scores 4/5 in child protection.
Qashqai's are popular family cars and generally hold their value well in the second hand market - if you buy one new you'll have no trouble moving it on. Overall, the Qashqai is not the cheapest family car on the market but offers great all-round value and practicality.
What something smaller and cheaper? Check out our review of the Volkswagen Golf.
