Nissan QASHQAI N-SPORT 2020 Review

Nissan has a history of offering special N editions of some of its popular models, whether it’s the X-Trail N-Trek or latest Nissan QASHQAI N-SPORT.

In the case of the latest limited-edition Nissan QASHQAI N-SPORT, it is more snazzy exterior styling tweaks than performance enhancements such as those found in the Nissan Navara N-TREK Warrior ‘tough truck’.

Part of the 2020-model update of Nissan’s popular five-seat compact crossover, the N-SPORT sits between the ST-L and top-spec Ti in the Nissan QASHQAI range and benefits from other 2020 updates including boosted safety and Apple CarPlay-ready tech.

While sharing most of its spec sheet with the Nissan QASHQAI ST-L, the QASHQAI N-SPORT differs with its bigger 19-inch alloys, along with satin brightwork on the rear bumper, mirror caps and side steps. There’s also more shiny paint in the form of colour-coded front and rear bumpers and side skirts, and other unique trim items like the N-SPORT badge on its rump.

The Nissan QASHQAI N-SPORT costs $34,000 plus on-road costs, which is $1000 more than the Nissan QASHQAI ST-L on which it’s based.

Exterior styling enhancements aside, it gets the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine (106kW/200Nm) driving through the front wheels (as other QASHQAI variants), along with Nissan’s XTronic CVT transmission fitted to all variants, except the manual entry-level ST grade.

Like the rest of the 2020-model QASHQAI range, the N-SPORT also benefits from the addition of Nissan's latest infotainment touch-screen system, which includes 3D map displays with free updates (for five years), text messaging, better search functionality and customisable screen and app options.

The model is covered by Nissan Australia’s five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty and five years’ roadside assistance. Service intervals are pegged at every 12 months or 10,000km, with service costs capped at $309 or less for the first three services, rising to $435 for the fourth service.

The Nissan QASHQAI N-SPORT comes in five exterior colours: Magnetic Red (pictured), Ivory Pearl, Pearl Black, Gun Metallic, or Vivid Blue.

The main reason to buy the Nissan QASHQAI N-SPORT is its low-cost styling enhancements. With a QASHQAI on virtually every suburban street in Australia (or so it seems in my neighbourhood!), the glossier and glitzier N-SPORT provides a point of difference – even over the top-spec Ti, which in my opinion looks cheaper with its black plastic lower body side mouldings.

The N-SPORT’s upmarket feel extends to its unique silver/grey 19-inch ‘Wind’ alloys shod with 225/45 Michelin Pilot Sport rubber that deliver a slightly firmer but still quiet and comfortable ride.

While there are no ‘N-SPORT’ highlights inside, the ST-L spec sheet still delivers for the price, including heated front seats (power adjustable for driver’s seat), keyless entry and push-button start, six airbags, 7.0-inch LCD colour display, fog lights, auto lights and wipers, and high beam assist.

Other handy QASHQAI N-SPORT connectivity features, apart from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (now fitted across the range), include voice recognition, digital radio and Bluetooth streaming.

However, the limited-edition model does miss out on some desirable features like auto LED headlights, climate control and adaptive cruise control, along with the panoramic sunroof and full leather upholstery found in the $3490 costlier QASHQAI Ti.

But the N-SPORT does get an impressive safety suite including autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot warning, lane departure warning and rear cross-traffic alert, along with 360-degree parking camera and front and rear sensors.

More high-riding hatchback than all-terrain SUV, the front-drive Nissan QASHQAI N-SPORT will appeal mostly to urban/city buyers, from families with one or two younger children, to couples and retirees looking for something practical. It will also attract those looking for something that stands out a bit more than the average runaround but without costing the earth to buy or run.

Like all QASHQAIs, the N-SPORT is an easy vehicle to live with and drive. The front cloth/leather seats are narrow but comfy, and there’s decent storage throughout the cabin including a boot big enough to swallow the weekly shopping.

Although the 7.0-inch display is on the small side, the infotainment system with triple split screen sat-nav is a step up from before, with decent audio quality, and most buyers will appreciate the smart phone mirroring. However, it would be good to have a USB port rather than just a 12V socket near the phone storage ‘nook’ up front (the only USB socket is hidden in the centre console box).

The QASHQAI’s familiar 2.0-litre petrol engine won’t fire up the enthusiasts, but in conjunction with the smooth-shifting CVT it is zippy enough around town (at least with a single driver and some gear on board) and cruises calmly on the freeway.

The new driver safety aids are a worthy addition in busy traffic, while standard features like auto folding side mirrors and one-touch power windows all-round add to the N-SPORT’s user-friendly appeal.

Even with its grippy low-profile rubber, the QASHQAI N-SPORT’s ride/handling balance remains above-average for its class, and a tight turning circle and compact dimensions (along with surround-view camera and front and rear sensors) make it a breeze to park at the supermarket.

Introduced in mid-2014 and updated in 2017 and again in early-2020, the current-format QASHQAI has been a sales success for Nissan with almost 12,000 sold locally in 2019 alone.

While limited-edition variants can be viewed cynically as marketing ploys to keep sales of ageing models ticking along, the N-SPORT ‘exterior styling’ pack makes sense for the $1000 premium. In fact, for those with the budget the N-SPORT might be the current pick of the Qashqai range.

While playing catch-up with its rivals in some areas, the eye-catching Nissan QASHQAI N-SPORT delivers enough bling for your bucks to entice even more buyers to the QASHQAI club.

How much does the 2020 Nissan QASHQAI N-SPORT cost?
Price: $35,000 (plus on-road costs)
Available: Now
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol
Output: 106kW/200Nm
Transmission: Continuously variable automatic
Fuel: 6.9/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 159g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety rating: Five-star (ANCAP)