Nissan Qashqai Vs Subaru XV comparison

VS

Here is our quick Nissan Qashqai vs Subaru XV comparison. Since released the Qashqai has topped our recommendations for a smallish SUV in terms of overall package. When released we liked the XV in a similar fashion but only for a little while as cracks in its package quickly started to appear. There is only one difference between the two models and that is the XV has all wheel drive. In set conditions the XV’s AWD system beats most of systems but in the real world it does not. So you can look at all the videos with set scenarios you want then compare it real world scenarios and you’ll agree with us. It’s just like the tested fuel consumption figures vs real world fuel consumption – they rarely match up.

Nissan Qashqai vs Subaru XV exterior: The XV is probably the most cohesive design of all the current Subaru models. It is well proportioned and detailed accordingly and strangely for a Subaru hasn’t dated quickly. The Qashqai does look just as well proportioned and has lines and curves that will keep it looking good for a few more years. We like both but the Nissan probably wins since we think it looks more modern.

Nissan Qashqai vs Subaru XV interior: The XV interior was one of the best for a few months until the CRV, CX-5 and now Qashqai were released. The XV now just looks a little on the cheap side. That said the extra trip computer information screens give it a nice upmarket touch missing else where in car. Aside from that the packaging is not as flexible as the competition. The Qashqai is the winner easily.

Nissan Qashqai vs Subaru XV engine and technology: All XV’s are AWD and that helps in terms of handling but not in a exciting way. Due to additional grip it has a tendency to steer with the rear wanting to go straight and the front turning very annoying a different direction and in hindsight not particularly safe in roundabouts. Good in slow tight concerns but little else.  However this characteristic means that any traction test that involves straight lines the XV will easily pass. Defeating this trait requires concentration. Subaru’s AWD system is also one of the best. Both have CVT gearboxes which are great for drivers who don’t care about actually driving but still not as good as having an engine that is actually designed for fuel saving from the start aka CX-5. See if you really like the CVT gearbox first before buying especially in the XV. The Qashqai has fix points under load better driver control and more safety tech.

Nissan Qashqai vs Subaru XV drive: If you wanted an exciting car to drive it would not be an XV. This is something we noticed and seemingly never mentioned for what ever reason. It’s handling ‘bogs’ down – meaning it cuts corners to the annoyance of other drivers and definitely prefers to go in a straight line than around corners. Maybe more throttle might be the answer but there isn’t much there if you are used to cars with more immediate power. The CVT gearbox does not help despite what others say also it is not a noisy CVT system – personal preference we guess. Ride is on the harder and flatter side which is great but does NOT give you the feel of being a SUV more like Hyundai a generation ago as opposed to current.  Haven’t driven a Qashqai as yet…

In the end we like both Qashqai and XV cars we looked at other factors to tell the difference. The driving characteristics of the Subaru XV really annoy us when not travelling in a straight line or perhaps maybe we are used to driving safer handling SUVs like the equally AWD Prado, on demand CR-V or rear wheel drive FJ and Ranger with easily better characteristics despite being larger SUVs! Qashai is currently the best package on the ‘smaller’ SUV class.  Since the XV is priced significantly higher also makes the choice easy and the Qashqai with a great starting price, better interior and exterior is the choice unless you intend to go regularly do some light trail driving that is…

Nissan Qashqai	Subaru XV
Engines
4 Cylinder Petrol MR20 2 Litre (1997cc) 91 Octane DOHC EFI Claimed 106Kw @ 6000RPM Claimed 200Nm @ 4400RPM	FB20 series engine F4 Petrol DOHC Boxer Engine EFI VVT 2.0 Litre (1995cc) Claimed 110Kw @ 6200RPM Claimed 196Nm @ 4100RPM
4 Cylinder Diesel R9M 1.6 Litre (1598cc) DI Turbo diesel Claimed 96Kw @ 4000RPM Claimed 320Nm @ 1750RPM
Weight
Kerb weight FROM 1371Kg Towing capacity up to 1400kg	Kerb weight FROM 1390Kg Towing capacity up to 1400kg
Fuel capacity & consumption
Up to 65 litres IL4 2.0 litre Petrol 7.7 litres per 100km IL4 1.6 litre Diesel 4.9 litres per 100km	Up to 60 litres F4 Petrol 7.3 Lts per 100km AVG
Other specifications
6 speed manual or CVT Auto Overall height/width 1595/1806 Overall length/wheelbase 4377/2646 4WD system: None ANCAP Safety: 5/5 Tyre size: 215-60-17 225-45-19	6 speed manual or CVT Auto Overall Height/width 1615/1780 Overall Length/wheelbase 4450/2635 4WD system: AWD Tyre size: 225-55-17 ANCAP Safety: x/5
Capability
Angle of: (degrees) Approach 19 Departure 28.5 Breakover xx Ground clearance (unloaded) 188mm Water Fording depth xxmm Max	Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Ground clearance (unloaded) xxxmm Water Fording depth xxxmm Max
Performance
Pricing
2014 FROM $25,990 – 37,990 AUD	2012 $28,490 – 36,990 AUD *Always check with the dealer for up to date pricing, specifications, on-road costs, accessories and specials etc.. everything as usual is subject to change!