2025 Nissan Qashqai e‑Power Review: EV Driving Without the Plug

Since its 2007 debut, the Nissan Qashqai has dominated Europe’s crossover sector, effectively creating the template for modern family SUVs. The 2025 iteration — particularly in e‑Power hybrid guise — continues this dominance by offering a unique drivetrain: the petrol engine never directly powers the wheels. Instead, it generates electricity for the electric motor, which drives the wheels exclusively.

This “series hybrid” arrangement gives the Qashqai e‑Power the seamless torque, quiet ride, and one‑pedal driving of a BEV, while retaining the convenience of petrol refuelling. For 2025, Nissan has enhanced cabin technology, improved driver assistance features, and given the exterior sharper styling in line with its global SUV family. Positioned against the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Honda ZR‑V e:HEV, and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, the Qashqai e‑Power stands out with its unique drivetrain and polished European tuning.

What They’re Saying

The Good

1. “Drives like a full EV, with instant torque and smooth acceleration.” — Autocar

2. “Remains one of the most family‑friendly crossovers in its class.” — AutoExpress

3. “Fuel economy is outstanding for a vehicle of this size.” — WhatCar?

4. “Refined ride with low cabin noise, even at motorway speeds.” — CarBuyer

5. “Interior tech feels upmarket, especially on higher trims.” — TopGear

The Bad

1. “Boot space is slightly reduced by hybrid packaging.” — Carwow

2. “Petrol engine can sound strained under heavy acceleration.” — Autocar

3. “More expensive than equivalent petrol Qashqai.” — AutoTrader UK

4. “e‑Power system complexity raises long‑term reliability questions.” — MotorTrend

5. “Not as dynamic to drive as some mild‑hybrid rivals.” — Edmunds

Key Specifications Overview

• Powertrain: 1.5L 3‑cyl turbo petrol (as generator) + electric motor (series hybrid)

• Power Output: 190 hp (140 kW) electric motor

• Torque: 330 Nm

• Transmission: Single‑speed reduction gear

• 0–100 km/h: ~7.9 seconds

• Battery: 2.1 kWh (li‑ion buffer)

• Fuel Economy: ~50–55 mpg UK (5.1–5.6 L/100 km)

• Drivetrain: FWD only (no AWD e‑Power yet)

• Weight: ~1,650–1,720 kg

• Boot Capacity: ~480 L (slightly reduced vs. ICE Qashqai)

• Price: From ~£34,500 (UK)

Key Specifications Table

Key Geographical Variations Table

*Note: The Nissan Qashqai e‑Power is not sold in the United States. The closest US equivalent, the Nissan Rogue Sport, has been discontinued and does not use this drivetrain.

Price Range Table

Performance and Driving Experience Overview

Driving the Qashqai e‑Power is remarkably similar to a pure EV experience: silent take‑offs, consistent torque, and linear acceleration. Nissan’s “one‑pedal driving” mode allows easy regenerative control in urban settings. At higher speeds, the petrol engine occasionally kicks in audibly at higher revs, but most owners report smooth operation. Handling prioritises stability over sportiness, with light steering and a composed ride tuned for European roads.

Interior and Technology

Cabin updates for 2025 introduce a larger 12.3‑inch infotainment screen (higher trims), improved voice command integration, and Google built‑in services. Material quality improves, especially in N‑Design versions with Alcantara trim. The seating is comfortable for long trips, rear passenger space is competitive, though the raised floor from hybrid components slightly reduces rear storage flexibility.

Exterior Design and Styling

The Qashqai gains sharper LED headlights, a refreshed grille in Nissan’s latest “V‑Motion” design, and sportier bumpers. Optional two‑tone roof paints and new alloy wheel designs add customization appeal. Its updated styling brings the Qashqai closer visually to the Ariya EV while maintaining its family SUV proportions.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

A highlight remains Nissan’s ProPilot Assist 2.0, now offered on higher trims, integrating adaptive cruise, lane‑centering, and semi‑autonomous motorway driving. Safety features include rear cross‑traffic alert, blind‑spot intervention, traffic sign recognition, emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and a 360° Around View Monitor.

Battery and Range Considerations

The e‑Power is not a plug‑in hybrid — instead, it uses a petrol engine to generate power for the wheels. As such, EV‑only driving range is limited to very short bursts on the small battery. However, fuel efficiency is significantly better than a conventional petrol Qashqai, with real‑world results often exceeding 50 mpg UK. Hybrid packaging reduces boot space slightly but still leaves it competitive.

At a Glance Table

Pros and Cons Overview

The Qashqai e‑Power smartly bridges the gap between ICE convenience and EV driving feel. It’s refined, efficient, and easy to live with, though not the sportiest SUV and slightly pricier than traditional hybrids. For families who want an EV‑like experience without charging infrastructure hassles, it’s an excellent practical choice.

Pros and Cons Table

Overall Verdict

The 2025 Nissan Qashqai e‑Power is one of the most compelling family crossovers in Europe, offering EV smoothness without charging anxiety. While it’s more expensive than a base petrol Qashqai, the added refinement, economy, and tech make it a strong recommendation for buyers who want a modern, electrified SUV but aren’t ready to switch to a full EV.

Sources

• Autocar (Qashqai e‑Power Review, July 2025)

• AutoExpress (First Drive, June 2025)

• CarBuyer (Owner Impressions, August 2025)

• WhatCar? (Tested Economy Data, July 2025)

• TopGear (Family SUV Comparison, May 2025)

• AutoTrader UK (Market Pricing Report, June 2025)

• MotorTrend (Hybrid Tech Analysis, 2025)

• Edmunds (Hybrid SUV Segment Review, July 2025)