The all‑new Nissan Qashqai has just been unveiled in the UK, and it’s creating a surge of excitement among drivers looking for a compact SUV that blends efficiency, performance, style and value like never before. With a claimed 72 MPG fuel economy, an appealing exterior, a refined and tech‑rich interior, and pricing that doesn’t break the bank, the Qashqai 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most balanced choices in its class. Whether you’re commuting across towns, cruising on motorways, or heading out on weekends, this SUV promises to deliver on multiple fronts.
In this UK‑friendly review, we’ll walk through everything that makes the Nissan Qashqai 72 MPG stand out — from its bold design and hybrid performance to its premium cabin and efficient ownership costs.
Best‑In‑Class 72 MPG Fuel Efficiency
One of the biggest talking points of the new Nissan Qashqai 2026 is its claimed 72 MPG — a figure that places it among the most fuel‑efficient vehicles in the compact SUV segment. This is hugely appealing to UK drivers who face rising fuel prices and want lower running costs without compromising practicality or comfort.
This impressive mileage does not come from compromise but from intelligent hybrid technology and efficient powertrain tuning. In everyday urban use and on longer motorway journeys, this SUV aims to strike a rare balance — giving drivers the confidence of low fuel bills while still delivering a smooth and capable drive.
While the exact real‑world figures will vary depending on driving conditions, traffic patterns and load, a documented 72 MPG claim sets the Qashqai apart from many conventional petrol or diesel competitors.
Bold, Stylish Exterior Design
The Nissan Qashqai 2026 carries a refreshed and modern exterior that appeals to UK buyers who value understated style over flashy gimmicks. The latest design language features:
- A sleeker front grille with refined chrome accents
- Sharper, slimmer LED headlights
- Smooth body contours that emphasise a dynamic profile
- Distinctive alloy wheel designs
- A confident stance that looks equally at home in city streets and rural roads
This looks modern without being overly aggressive — perfect for buyers who want style that lasts through years of ownership.
Powerful Yet Practical Performance
Despite the focus on high fuel efficiency, the Qashqai 2026 is not lacking in performance. The hybrid powertrain produces enough torque to feel responsive in everyday driving situations — whether pulling out of roundabouts, cruising on dual carriageways, or navigating UK country lanes.
The transition between electric assist and petrol power is smooth, helping maintain confidence even at higher speeds. Steering feels balanced, and the chassis tuning of the Qashqai keeps body control in check, giving a sense of poise that’s rare in many SUVs at this price point.
Everyday overtaking, motorway driving and urban navigation feel composed rather than rushed — something British drivers will appreciate during both long commutes and weekend adventures.
Premium Interior with UK‑Friendly Comfort
Inside, the Qashqai 2026 elevates the driving experience with a premium, well‑appointed cabin that feels more expensive than its price tag suggests. Nissan has clearly invested in high‑quality materials, intuitive technology and thoughtful ergonomics.
Key interior highlights include:
- A large central infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Digital driver information screens with crisp clarity
- Comfortable seating with supportive cushioning, suitable for longer journeys
- Better cabin insulation to reduce road and engine noise
- Smart storage solutions and easy‑to‑reach controls
The seating position feels confident yet relaxed — perfect for tackling both city traffic and UK motorways. Passengers in the rear also benefit from generous legroom and headroom, making it a practical choice for families.
Advanced Tech and Connectivity
The 2026 Qashqai doesn’t just look modern — it feels modern thanks to a suite of integrated technology features. The infotainment interface is responsive and easy to use, with logical menus that avoid unnecessary clutter. Drivers also benefit from:
- Voice command support for hands‑free operation
- Bluetooth and connected apps for music and messaging
- Multiple USB charging points for all passengers
For daily driving and long trips alike, this blend of tech features feels purposeful rather than gimmicky.
Comprehensive Safety Features for UK Roads
Safety is a core part of Nissan’s strategy with the Qashqai 2026. For buyers in the UK — where road conditions and traffic scenarios vary widely — the presence of intelligent driver assistance systems adds a welcome layer of confidence.
Safety and support features likely to be included (depending on trim) are:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane‑Keeping Assist
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Blind‑Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross‑Traffic Alert
- Rear‑view and 360‑degree cameras
A combination of active safety systems and robust passive safety scorecards make the Qashqai a reassuring choice for families, first‑time SUV buyers, and daily commuters alike.
Practicality and Everyday Usability
The new Qashqai’s boot space is easy to load and offers useful volume for shopping trips, weekend breaks, or daily gear like strollers and sports equipment. Rear seats fold conveniently to create more room, making the SUV versatile for both people and cargo.
With good visibility, a commanding driving position and easy‑to‑use controls, the Qashqai feels accessible even to drivers who are new to compact SUVs.
Value Proposition and Affordable Ownership
One of the Qashqai’s strongest selling points in the UK market is its overall value proposition. When combined with:
- Claimed 72 MPG efficiency
- Competitively priced variants
- Low running costs
- Modern tech and comfort
- Strong safety score
…it becomes clear that Nissan is aiming for a well‑rounded ownership experience rather than just headline numbers.
This makes the Qashqai not only appealing at the point of purchase but also sensible over the long term.
Who Should Consider the Nissan Qashqai 2026?
The 2026 Nissan Qashqai is likely to appeal to a wide range of UK buyers, including:
- Urban commuters who want top‑tier fuel economy
- Families needing practical space without excess cost
- Drivers seeking a stylish but non‑flashy SUV
- Those who prioritise safety and comfort for everyday use
With its combination of practical performance and modern design, it checks many boxes that UK buyers look for in a compact SUV.
Final Thoughts
The Nissan Qashqai 2026 delivers a compelling package for anyone seeking a fuel‑efficient, stylish and practical SUV. With a claim of 72 MPG, strong everyday performance, a premium interior feel and smart technology, it offers real‑world value that goes beyond just headline figures.
For buyers in the UK market who want an SUV that feels refined, drives confidently and keeps running costs low, the Qashqai is shaping up to be one of the most attractive options available today. Whether you’re navigating city streets or heading out on longer journeys, this SUV aims to make every trip feel composed, efficient and enjoyable.