VS

Nissan Qashqai vs Ford Kuga comparison

Compare performance (205 HP vs 243 HP), boot space and price (29,600 £ vs 34,200 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Nissan Qashqai or Ford Kuga?

Nissan Qashqai vs Ford Kuga: Key differences

Nissan Qashqai

4.9 (3 Reviews)
rate
  • a bit cheaper
  • very slightly lighter
details

Ford Kuga

4.2 (6 Reviews)
rate
  • somewhat more power
  • clearly more efficient
  • barely quicker 0–100 km/h
details

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

Qashqai

Ford Kuga VS Nissan Qashqai: which compact SUV suits your daily life?

Ford Kuga VS Nissan Qashqai sit on the same compact‑SUV bench but take very different tacks. The Ford Kuga plays the driver‑oriented card with agile handling and hybrid options that reward mixed commuting, while the Nissan Qashqai favors calm, EV‑like refinement and a more ergonomic, tech‑first cabin. Those personalities quickly affect comfort, usability and long‑distance behavior rather than just showing up as spec sheets. Read on to see how each model’s character changes everyday ownership and which trade‑offs are most likely to matter to you.

Kuga

Character on the road: engaging Kuga, composed Qashqai

On the move the Ford Kuga feels taut and communicative while the Nissan Qashqai trades immediacy for serenity. Kuga's steering is sharper and the chassis is tuned for cornering confidence, so drivers who enjoy a lively feel will prefer it. By contrast the Qashqai's drivetrain and suspension aim for linear, quiet responses that mask speed and lower driver workload. That trade‑off carries consequences: Kuga's hybrid systems can become noisy under strong acceleration while Qashqai keeps a hushed, EV‑like demeanor even when you ask for pace. If you tackle twisty lanes regularly the Kuga will feel more rewarding; if you cover city commutes and relaxed motorway runs, the Qashqai's gentler manners pay off.

Qashqai

Comfort and cabin feel: techy Kuga vs calm Qashqai

Cabin feel highlights an important split between Ford Kuga and Nissan Qashqai. The Qashqai generally reads as the more refined and ergonomically calm interior, with physical climate controls and Google Built‑in that reduce fuss. The Kuga counters with a bigger central touchscreen and driver‑centric layout, but its reliance on touch controls for climate and simpler materials leaves it feeling less plush. Both cars are quiet at cruise, though the Kuga's low wind and road noise combine with a firmer ride to feel more planted, while the Qashqai cushions occupants a little better on typical surfaces. Choose Kuga if you prize a techy cockpit and driver feedback; choose Qashqai if you want a more relaxed, higher‑quality daily environment.

Kuga

Practicality and family use: sliding flexibility versus clever packaging

Practical differences matter with kids and luggage and they split the two cars clearly. The Ford Kuga scores with a sliding rear bench and a practical, low loading sill that makes swapping child seats and strollers straightforward. The Nissan Qashqai offers wide‑opening doors and a sensible double‑floor arrangement that helps organisation, but its higher lip and variable floor height can compromise usable height and heavy loading. Neither car is the outright class leader in boot space—Kuga's plug‑in variants especially eat into cargo—but both handle daily family chores well in slightly different ways. Families who need flexible seat positioning and easier floor loading will lean toward the Kuga, while those who value neat organisation, easy door access and a tidy cabin will prefer the Qashqai.

Qashqai

City friendliness and long‑distance behavior: plug‑in punch vs seamless EV‑like feel

City driving accentuates the strengths where these two diverge. Ford Kuga hybrids deliver low real‑world consumption in start‑stop traffic and recover efficiency when you can charge at home, making it a strong choice for urban commuters with a plug. Nissan Qashqai's e‑Power setup feels electric in town without any charging fuss, paired with excellent parking aids that make urban manoeuvres easier. On long motorway runs the Kuga rewards with a very quiet cruising demeanor until you demand rapid overtakes and the hybrid gets vocal, whereas the Qashqai remains composed but can be less economical at sustained high speeds. So pick the Kuga for plug‑in suburban commutes and brisk overtakes, and the Qashqai if you want easy, stress‑free city driving and a calm long‑distance companion.

Kuga

Buyer fit: who should pick which car before we dive into specs?

Who should actually buy one? The Ford Kuga suits drivers who want a compact SUV that still feels engaging, need the flexibility of a sliding rear bench and can make use of plug‑in efficiency. The Nissan Qashqai is aimed at buyers who prioritise an effortless, EV‑like everyday experience, straightforward infotainment, and a quieter, more comfortable cabin without the hassle of charging. Price and equipment will sway many decisions too: Qashqai trims can be kinder on the wallet at the entry point while Kuga's hybrid and performance options add cost but deliver stronger on‑road poke and technology. Those trade‑offs—agility versus serenity, flexible loadspace versus organised packing, touch‑heavy tech versus Google‑centred ergonomics—are what the following technical comparison will unpack in hard numbers.

Frequently compared as well

Nissan Qashqai
VW T-Roc
VS
The Nissan Qashqai is the sensible, family-friendly compact SUV — roomy, quietly comfortable and packed with practical tech for long motorway miles. The VW T-Roc swaps a little rear-seat space for cheeky styling and sharper handling, so if you want personality and a bit more driver engagement it’s …
Nissan Qashqai
Volvo XC40
VS
The Nissan Qashqai is the sensible, hard-working compact SUV that delivers excellent everyday comfort, clever interior space and strong value for money — perfect if you want a reliable family car without the premium price tag. The Volvo XC40, by contrast, is a sharper, more upscale choice with a …

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Qashqai

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Nissan Qashqai is a bit cheaper – starting at 29,600 £ , while the Ford Kuga costs 34,200 £ . That’s a price difference of around 4,637 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Ford Kuga uses 2.8 L/100km and is clearly more efficient than the Nissan Qashqai with 4.3 L/100km. The difference is about 1.5 L/100km.

Kuga

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Ford Kuga offers somewhat more power – delivering 243 HP compared to 205 HP. That’s roughly 38 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Ford Kuga is barely quicker – completing the sprint in 7.3 s, while the Nissan Qashqai takes 7.6 s. That’s about 0.3 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Nissan Qashqai delivers visibly more torque with 330 Nm compared to 240 Nm. That’s about 90 Nm more.

Qashqai

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Nissan Qashqai is very slightly lighter – 1,420 kg compared to 1,526 kg. The difference is around 106 kg.

When it comes to payload, the Ford Kuga carries barely more – 550 kg compared to 516 kg. That’s a difference of about 34 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Ford Kuga is clearly superior overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £34,200
Kuga

Ford Kuga

  • Engine Type : Petrol, Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 150 - 243 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2.8 - 6.8 L/100km
  • Electric Range : 68 km
details
Nissan Qashqai
Ford Kuga

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Nissan Qashqai

The Nissan Qashqai is a compact crossover that blends everyday practicality with a comfortable, composed driving experience and a smart, well finished interior. It feels sensible and versatile for city life and longer trips, appealing to buyers who want a reliable, low fuss family car.

details
Nissan_Qashqai_4X4_005
Nissan_Qashqai_4X4_001
Nissan_Qashqai_4X4_011
Nissan_Qashqai_4X4_032
Nissan_Qashqai_4X4_022

Reviews Nissan Qashqai

4.9 (3 Reviews)
rate

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

Ford Kuga

The Ford Kuga is a practical and comfortable compact SUV that balances everyday usability with a composed ride and adaptable interior. It offers sensible tech and safety features, making it a solid choice for families or anyone seeking a versatile, easy-to-live-with crossover.

details
ford-kuga-black-edition_exteriores_vignale_14sept2022_0085-LOW
ford-kuga-black-edition_exteriores_vignale_14sept2022_0238-LOW
FORD_KUGA_ST-LINE_PHEV_024-LOW

Reviews Ford Kuga

4.2 (6 Reviews)
rate
Richie Wid
3 Apr 2026, 13:13:55

PHEV model — very pleased with the car after 2.5 years. In the summer months it runs practically on electric power alone. The large 2.5‑litre engine is surprisingly frugal, about 0.5 l/mil. Downsides are the ventilation in winter, which causes fogged windows, and that we can now only charge the battery to 80%.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Miguel
19 Oct 2025, 05:54:42

It's a car that strikes an excellent balance between quality and price.

Frequently compared as well

Ford Kuga
Volvo XC40
VS
The Ford Kuga is the zippier, more practical pick — roomy, better value and a bit more fun to drive — while the Volvo XC40 trades that scrappiness for a quieter, upmarket cabin, class-leading safety tech and unmistakable Scandinavian polish. If you want driving engagement and bang for your buck go …
Nissan Qashqai
Opel Grandland
VS
The Nissan Qashqai feels sharper on the road with refined handling and clever packaging, while the Opel Grandland answers with a roomier cabin and bolder looks that’ll please practical families. Pick the Qashqai for polished tech and a composed daily drive, choose the Grandland if you want more …
Nissan Qashqai
Renault Captur
VS
The Nissan Qashqai stays the sensible family favourite — roomier, better built and more composed on the motorway, so it’s the pick if you value comfort and practicality without drama. The Renault Captur, meanwhile, charms with bolder styling, clever packaging and nippier city manners (usually for …
Ford Kuga
MG HS
VS
The Ford Kuga and MG HS are popular compact SUVs that appeal to buyers after roomy cabins and practical everyday driving — the Kuga leans toward sharper handling and more refined powertrain options, while the MG HS focuses on strong value and generous standard kit. This comparison cuts through the …
Ford Kuga
Volvo XC60
VS
Choosing between the Ford Kuga and the Volvo XC60 comes down to whether you want the Kuga’s practical, value-driven approach or the XC60’s more premium, safety-focused experience. I’ll compare their space, comfort, technology, running costs and driving feel to help you pick the SUV that best fits …
Ford Kuga
VW T-Roc
VS
In the compact-SUV ring, the Ford Kuga and the VW T‑Roc step up: one leans on family-friendly practicality and hybrid efficiency, the other on sharp styling and city-ready agility. We’ll compare space, economy, driving feel and value so you can choose whether you want sensible muscle or fashionable …
Nissan Qashqai
Opel Mokka
VS
The Nissan Qashqai and Opel Mokka are two popular compact SUVs that take very different approaches: the Qashqai focuses on roomy practicality and comfortable family motoring, while the Mokka favours bold styling and nimble city driving. Below I'll outline the key differences in space, driving feel, …
Nissan Qashqai
Toyota Corolla Cross
VS
The Nissan Qashqai feels like the classier, more refined compact crossover—crisper handling, a plush interior and sharper infotainment—while the Toyota Corolla Cross is the sensible rival, offering rock-solid reliability, excellent economy and no-nonsense practicality that will age well. If you …
Nissan Qashqai
Ford Kuga

Costs and Consumption
Price
29,600 - 39,900 £
Price
34,200 - 46,300 £
Consumption L/100km
4.3 - 6.8 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
2.8 - 6.8 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
68 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
98 - 152 g/km
co2
55 - 154 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,420 - 1,624 kg
Curb weight
1,526 - 1,859 kg
Trunk capacity
479 - 504 L
Trunk capacity
-
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,835 mm
Width
1,882 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
446 - 516 kg
Payload
541 - 550 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol, Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, CVT, Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, CVT, Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
158 - 205 HP
Power HP
150 - 243 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 9.9 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.3 - 9.9 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
260 - 330 Nm
Torque
240 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
116 - 151 kW
Power kW
111 - 178 kW
Engine capacity
1,332 - 1,498 cm3
Engine capacity
1,496 - 2,488 cm3

General
Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, D, B
Brand
Nissan
Brand
Ford
What drive types are available for the Nissan Qashqai?

The Nissan Qashqai is available as Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.