QASHQAI J10

About the Qashqai J10

Nissan invented the compact crossover-as-hatchback-replacement with the J10 Qashqai and Europe bought millions of them. Built on the Renault-Nissan C platform, the 2.0-liter MR20DE made 140 hp, and the 1.5 dCi diesel was the volume seller in Europe at 106 hp and genuine 50-mpg capability. The ride height was higher than a hatchback, the cargo space was bigger, and the driving experience was car-like because the Qashqai was built like a tall hatchback rather than a small SUV. Build quality was adequate. The interior was dark and plasticky but functional. What mattered was the concept. Park it like a Golf, sit above traffic like an SUV, and never think about it again. The J10 Qashqai created a category and Nissan sold 2 million of them in Europe alone.