The Nissan Qashqai+2 (NJ10) 2.0i, produced from 2008 to 2010, represented a significant expansion of the popular Qashqai range. This variant distinguished itself by offering seven-passenger seating within the compact crossover segment, a relatively uncommon feature at the time. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Qashqai+2 lineup, it aimed to provide a balance between practicality, space, and reasonable performance. The Qashqai+2, specifically designed for the European market, was Nissan’s response to the growing demand for versatile family vehicles that didn’t require the size and expense of a traditional minivan or large SUV. It was built on the Nissan B platform, shared with the Renault Mégane and other Renault-Nissan Alliance vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Qashqai |
| Generation | Qashqai+2 I (NJ10) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i (141 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.1 l/100 km (21.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 197 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 141 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 196 Nm @ 4800 rpm (144.56 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | MR20DE |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.1 mm (3.55 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.4 l (4.65 US qt | 3.87 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1476 kg (3254.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2108 kg (4647.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 632 kg (1393.32 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 130 l (4.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1520 l (53.68 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4530 mm (178.35 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Height | 1645 mm (64.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2765 mm (108.86 in.) |
| Front track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Qashqai+2 2.0i is the MR20DE engine, a 1.997-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated design, meaning it doesn’t utilize a turbocharger or supercharger. It features multi-point fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The MR20DE is known for its relative simplicity and durability. The engine produces 141 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 196 Nm (144.56 lb-ft) of torque at 4800 rpm. The engine’s design prioritizes smooth operation and fuel efficiency over outright performance. The transmission is a six-speed manual gearbox, providing a reasonable spread of ratios for both urban and highway driving. While an automatic transmission was available on other Qashqai+2 trims, the 2.0i was primarily offered with the manual.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0i variant of the Qashqai+2 offers adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. The 0-60 mph acceleration time of around 10.5 seconds reflects this. The engine feels reasonably responsive at lower speeds, making it suitable for city driving. However, when fully loaded with passengers and luggage, or when tackling steep inclines, the engine can feel strained. The six-speed manual transmission allows drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but it requires frequent shifting to maintain momentum. Compared to the 1.6-liter engine offered in lower trims, the 2.0i provides noticeably more power and torque, making it a better choice for those who frequently carry passengers or travel long distances. It’s a significant step down in performance compared to the diesel options, which offered superior torque and fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Qashqai+2 2.0i typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front and rear windows, remote central locking, and a basic audio system with CD player. Safety features such as ABS, front airbags, and side airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered options like alloy wheels, climate control, parking sensors, and a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over stylistic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The Qashqai+2 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. A stabilizer bar is fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability in emergency situations. The steering is a rack and pinion system with electric power assistance, providing a light and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Qashqai+2 2.0i was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and versatile family vehicle. However, some reviewers noted that the 2.0-liter engine could feel underpowered when the vehicle was fully loaded. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Compared to the diesel variants, the 2.0i offered lower fuel efficiency but a smoother and quieter driving experience. The 1.6-liter petrol engine offered a lower price point but lacked the performance of the 2.0i. The Qashqai+2 competed with other compact crossovers such as the Renault Grand Scenic and the Citroën C4 Picasso.
Legacy
The Nissan Qashqai+2 2.0i, while not the most powerful or fuel-efficient variant in the lineup, remains a reasonably reliable and practical choice in the used car market. The MR20DE engine is known for its durability, and routine maintenance is relatively straightforward. Common issues include wear and tear on suspension components and occasional problems with the electric power steering system. Today, these vehicles represent an affordable option for families seeking a seven-seater crossover with a reasonable level of comfort and practicality. Its lasting appeal lies in its blend of space, versatility, and Nissan’s reputation for building dependable vehicles.
