Nissan Qashqai vs Mazda CX-5: Which family SUV Comes Out on Top?

The Nissan Qashqai and the Mazda CX-5 are two great SUVs. Both are great to drive,offer loads of interior space and modern technology—but which one is the better fit for your needs? We’re going to compare both models to help you make the best choice for your next car.

The Nissan Qashqai features a modern yet understated design, highlighted by clean lines and a distinctive front end. The interior is well-made with ample space for five passengers and the tech is easy to use. It has a good-sized boot as well at 504 litres, although the Hyundai Tucson is the load-lugging champion with its 620 litres of space.

The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, has a sportier design with flowing lines and a snazzy front grille. Its interior is finished with high-quality materials, and it just feels a bit more posh than the Qashqai. With a boot space of 522 litres, it just beats the Nissan.

Driving Experience & Performance

The Nissan Qashqai is properly comfortable to drive. It does a great job of ironing out bumps in the road, and it’s a particularly good motorway cruiser. It’s not what you’d call sporty, but it’s a relaxing SUV for wafting around in. You get a choice of petrol and hybrid engines, as well as manual or automatic gearboxes. There are no diesels though, nor is there a plug-in option.

The Mazda CX-5 is more sporty to drive. Its precise steering and agile handling make it particularly enjoyable on winding country roads, but as a result it is firmer than the Qashqai and therefore less comfortable. The CX-5 also comes with a variety of engine choices, including petrol and diesel options, as well as an all-wheel-drive version.

Technology & Features

The Nissan Qashqai comes with an impressive level of standard equipment, including a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard driver assistance systems include automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control, making the Qashqai a safe choice for families. An optional Bose sound system enhances the in-car audio experience.

The Mazda CX-5 is also packed with advanced technology. The infotainment system is user-friendly and also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The CX-5 stands out with an excellent head-up display and a comprehensive range of safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.

Both cars are very well-equipped, but the Qashqai offers more tech for your money.

Value for Money & Running Costs

The Nissan Qashqai is an attractive choice for many buyers due to its strong value-for-money offering. Prices start at around £27,000, but thanks to Carwow deals, you can save an average of £5,900 at the time of writing and get one for as low as £24,855. Hybrid variants are pretty fuel-efficient, making the Qashqai an economical daily driver.

The Mazda CX-5 starts at around £31,000, making it more expensive than the Nissan. With Carwow discounts you can get a CX-5 for as little as £28,700 at the time of writing. It offers high-quality materials and generous equipment. Both the Nissan and the Mazda will return around 45mpg, so there’s not much in it in terms of running costs.

Verdict: Which SUV is Right for You?

Both models offer an excellent mix of comfort, technology and practicality, but they cater to slightly different audiences.

The Nissan Qashqai is the ideal option for those looking for a practical, efficient SUV that’s perfect for daily commuting and family trips. It’s the more comfortable option as well, and it offers the best value for money.

If having fun is a priority for you, the Mazda CX-5 is more engaging to drive. This does make it less comfortable, but it has a more premium-feeling interior to make up for this. While you can’t really go wrong with either of these cars, the Nissan Qashqai is the more complete overall package.

If neither of these SUVs is quite what you’re looking for, check out our SUV guide to discover the best options at exclusive Carwow prices.

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