2026 Nissan Qashqai e-Power Review – EV Driving with Petrol
Overview
The Nissan Qashqai e-Power remains one of the most innovative hybrids on the market. It uses a petrol engine only as a generator, while an electric motor drives the wheels—so it feels like an EV but runs on fuel. For 2026, Nissan has upgraded its e-Power system for better efficiency, performance, and refinement, giving drivers a smoother, quieter, and more EV-like experience without charging cables.
Key Features & Design Updates
- Next-Gen e-Power System: New five-in-one electric drive unit improves packaging and reduces noise/vibration by up to 5.6 dB.
- Efficiency Boost: Fuel economy up 14–16% compared with the previous version, range up to 1200 km (≈ 745 mi) per tank.
- Design Refresh: Sharper exterior lines, new N-Design styling, improved LED lighting and aerodynamic touches.
- Interior Upgrades: Higher-quality materials, quieter cabin, enhanced sound insulation, and a more premium feel.
Performance & Driving Experience
- Power Output: Up to 201 bhp (150 kW), +13 bhp vs previous model.
- Acceleration: 0–60 mph ≈ 7.8 s (est.).
- Torque: 330 Nm instant electric torque for smooth EV-like response.
- Drive Feel: Instant, linear power delivery—no gear shifts. The petrol engine runs quietly as a generator and seldom intrudes.
- Handling: Comfort-oriented suspension and stable motorway manners. Larger 20″ wheels may reduce ride comfort slightly.
- Single-Pedal Driving: Available “e-Pedal Step” mode allows deceleration with minimal brake use.
Battery & Charging
Unlike a plug-in hybrid, the Qashqai e-Power cannot be charged externally. The petrol engine generates electricity for a small (~2 kWh) battery that powers the electric motor.Benefits: No need for home charging, lower battery wear, and consistent performance in all weather.
Maintenance: Extended service intervals (≈ 20,000 km / 12,000 mi) and reduced mechanical stress on components.
Safety & Driver Assistance
The 2026 Qashqai e-Power comes with Nissan’s full ProPILOT Assist suite, including:- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
- Lane keeping assist and traffic-jam pilot
- Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Blind-spot intervention and rear cross-traffic alert
- 360-degree camera and intelligent parking assist
Interior Comfort & Technology
- Infotainment: New 12.3″ HD touchscreen with Google built-in Maps and Assistant, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Digital Cluster: 12.3″ customizable driver display plus 10.8″ head-up display.
- Connectivity: Over-the-air updates, Nissan Connected Services app.
- Comfort: Zero-Gravity seats, ambient lighting, improved air filtration.
- Space: Ample rear legroom and 504 L boot capacity (1393 L seats folded).
The cabin feels notably quieter and more premium, with ergonomic controls and soft-touch materials. The infotainment is quicker, more intuitive, and visually modern.
Sustainability & Efficiency
The Qashqai e-Power is designed for drivers who want lower emissions without plug-in complexity.
- CO₂ Emissions: ≈ 102–110 g/km (WLTP).
- Fuel Economy: ≈ 4.8–5.3 L/100 km (44–52 mpg US).
- Eco Materials: Use of recycled polymers and vegan leather options in some trims.
While not a zero-emission vehicle, its real-world efficiency and reduced engine runtime make it one of the cleaner non-plug-in SUVs available.
Owner Feedback & Driving Impressions
Pros:- Smooth, EV-like acceleration
- Excellent real-world fuel economy
- Refined and quiet ride
- Practical and comfortable interior
- Higher price than standard petrol Qashqai
- No plug-in capability
- Engine noise still audible under heavy load
- 20″ wheels reduce ride comfort
Availability & Pricing
- Launch: Early 2026 (Europe first; UK Q2 2026).
- Expected Price Range: from ≈ €40,000 / £34,000 (2026 e-Power models) to ≈ £43,000 for high spec N-Design trim.
- Trims: Acenta Premium / N-Connecta / Tekna / Tekna+ / N-Design.
- How to Reserve: Register interest or book a test drive at