The Nissan Qashqai and Hyundai Tucson are two extremely popular family SUV choices here in the UK, offering a blend of practicality, technology and modern styling. While they share some similarities in concept, there are a number of key differences that may sway buyers.
The Qashqai pioneered the crossover SUV segment when it launched back in 2006, packaging family car versatility into a chunky, fashionable body. The latest third-generation model, facelifted in 2024, has built on that appeal with sharper styling, improved interior quality and the latest in-car tech. Hyundai, meanwhile, has transformed the Tucson from a budget choice into a genuinely upmarket contender, with bold design and an expansive range of electrified powertrains.
Nissan Qashqai vs Hyundai Tucson
Practicality
The Nissan Qashqai delivers superb family car practicality in a stylish crossover package. Its 504-litre boot is impressively spacious, though four-wheel drive and optional extras can slightly reduce capacity. A split, adjustable boot floor allows flexible load configurations, while the rear seats offer plenty of leg and headroom for adult passengers. However, the Qashqai lacks the sliding rear seats found in some rivals.
The Hyundai Tucson raises the bar even higher with its cavernous 620-litre boot in non-hybrid form, though hybrid variants see this drop to between 558-577 litres. Passenger space is equally generous, with ample room for taller adults front and rear. The Tucson has the edge for outright luggage capacity, but both excel at family-friendly versatility.
Driving Impressions
Shunning diesel engines entirely, the Nissan Qashqai is offered solely with 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol power in either 138bhp or 156bhp mild hybrid form. There's also a more advanced E-Power hybrid that uses the petrol engine as a generator for its electric motor. Performance is adequate if unexceptional across the range, though the E-Power stands out for its electric car-like responsiveness and refinement.
The Hyundai Tucson offers greater choice, with a 1.6-litre turbo petrol in non-hybrid, mild hybrid and full self-charging hybrid forms producing up to 227bhp. A 261bhp plug-in hybrid is also available, delivering a useful 40-mile electric range. While the non-hybrid feels underpowered, the rest of the line-up provides punchy performance complemented by a smooth automatic gearbox.
Both handle tidily and ride comfortably in most situations, though the Tucson can jostle over rougher surfaces on larger wheel options. With slightly sharper responses, the Qashqai edges it for driver involvement, but neither will leave keen drivers buzzing with excitement.
Technology and Equipment
Both the Qashqai and Tucson offer a generous suite of in-car technology. The Nissan gets an 8- or 9-inch touchscreen system on early models, later upgraded to a 12.3-inch display. It's reasonably intuitive, though graphics are slightly grainy compared to some rivals. Standard kit is strong, with even entry versions getting LED lights and adaptive cruise.
The Hyundai edges it with its slick, curved dual 12.3-inch screen setup post-facelift, providing a premium tech experience to match its upmarket ambitions. Lower trims are still well equipped, too, with leather trim, dual-zone climate control and smartphone mirroring all included. With smart styling flourishes and plush materials in top trims, the Tucson has a slight advantage for in-car ambience.
Running Costs
When it comes to running costs, there's little to split the conventionally-powered petrol and mild hybrid variants in each range. Official combined economy is in the low-to-mid 40s for most, which is par for the course in this class. The plug-in hybrid Tucson promises over 200mpg, though real-world returns will depend heavily on regular charging and journey patterns.
Where the Tucson pulls ahead is in its full self-charging hybrid model, which can achieve over 50mpg - making it arguably the best all-rounder in this comparison. Hhyundai's five-year, unlimited mileage warranty is also better than Nissan's three-year, 60,000-mile offering.
Verdict
With its stylish design, roomy interior and well-rounded driving experience, the Nissan Qashqai continues to be a compelling all-rounder in the family SUV segment it pioneered. Its lack of diesel options may put off some buyers, but the E-Power hybrid demonstrates Nissan's commitment to electrification.
However, the Hyundai Tucson is a more upmarket, technology-laden offering. Not only does it match or surpass the Qashqai for practicality and ease of use, but it offers a more extensive powertrain range that includes frugal yet punchy hybrid options. Coupled with its bold styling and plush cabin at higher trims, the Tucson has the edge as a slightly more complete and forward-looking family SUV package.