@ Nissan Motor Corporation
@ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center
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Nissan Qashqai vs SEAT Arona – Which model is better for everyday use?

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Nissan Qashqai or SEAT Arona?

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Compact SUVs Face-off: Nissan Qashqai vs SEAT Arona

The world of compact SUVs is vast and diverse, but two names often rise to the top for their reliability, design, and innovation: the Nissan Qashqai and the SEAT Arona. Let's dive into the details and see how these two models stack up against each other.

Arona @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Exterior Dimensions and Design

The Nissan Qashqai boasts a more muscular appearance with its dimensions at 4,425 mm in length, 1,835 mm in width, and 1,625 mm in height. This gives it a sturdy and robust look that's both appealing and imposing. On the other hand, the SEAT Arona is more compact, measuring 4,153 mm in length, 1,780 mm in width, and 1,537 mm in height. The Arona's design leans towards agility and urban friendliness, making it a perfect companion for city driving.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Engine Variety and Performance

The Qashqai offers versatility with both Petrol MHEV and Full Hybrid options. It provides a range of power outputs from 140 HP to 190 HP and various transmissions, including Manual, CVT, and Reduction Gearbox. With acceleration figures ranging from 10.2 seconds to 7.9 seconds to 100 km/h, the Qashqai is not just about looks but performance too. Its top speed can reach up to 206 km/h.

In contrast, the SEAT Arona is powered by a petrol engine with outputs from 95 HP to 150 HP. It also offers Manual and Dual-Clutch Automatic transmissions, ensuring a smooth driving experience. The Arona reaches 100 km/h in as little as 8.4 seconds. With a top speed of 210 km/h, it's surprisingly fast for its smaller frame.

Arona @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

For eco-conscious drivers, the Qashqai's CO2 emissions range between 116 g/km and 154 g/km, depending on the configuration. Its fuel consumption varies from 5.1 to 6.8 L/100km. In comparison, the Arona offers a slightly lower CO2 output from 122 to 128 g/km and fuel consumption between 5.4 and 5.6 L/100km, making it a greener choice for urban adventurers.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Interior Space and Practicality

Inside, the Qashqai offers ample space with a trunk capacity of up to 504 liters, accommodating all your gear for longer road trips. Its design, focused on comfort and utility, seats five comfortably.

The Arona, while smaller, presents a surprisingly practical interior with a trunk space of 400 liters. It's designed for efficiency and comfort, providing a cozy ride for five passengers despite its compact size.

Arona @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Conclusion: Choosing the Right SUV for You

Both SUVs bring their unique strengths to the table. The Nissan Qashqai offers more options in terms of powertrains and a slightly more spacious interior, making it ideal for those who prioritize versatility and space. The SEAT Arona, with its nimble dimensions and eco-friendliness, appeals to drivers looking for a more urban-centric vehicle that's big on style and practicality.

Ultimately, your decision may come down to your driving needs—whether you're conquering city streets or seeking weekend adventures. Both the Qashqai and Arona are excellent choices in the competitive landscape of compact SUVs.

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

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

SEAT Arona has a convincingly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 19300 £, while the Nissan Qashqai costs 29600 £. That’s a price difference of around 10303 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Nissan Qashqai manages with 4.50 L and is therefore noticeable more efficient than the SEAT Arona with 5.40 L. The difference is about 0.90 L per 100 km.

Arona @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Nissan Qashqai has a clearly perceptible edge – offering 205 HP compared to 150 HP. That’s roughly 55 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Nissan Qashqai is slightly quicker – completing the sprint in 7.60 s, while the SEAT Arona takes 8.40 s. That’s about 0.80 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the SEAT Arona performs barely noticeable better – reaching 210 km/h, while the Nissan Qashqai tops out at 206 km/h. The difference is around 4 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Nissan Qashqai pulls evident stronger with 330 Nm compared to 250 Nm. That’s about 80 Nm difference.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, SEAT Arona is to a small extent lighter – 1188 kg compared to 1420 kg. The difference is around 232 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Nissan Qashqai offers noticeable more room – 504 L compared to 400 L. That’s a difference of about 104 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Nissan Qashqai performs somewhat better – up to 1447 L, which is about 167 L more than the SEAT Arona.

When it comes to payload, SEAT Arona barely noticeable takes the win – 522 kg compared to 520 kg. That’s a difference of about 2 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Nissan Qashqai shows itself to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £29,600
Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Nissan Qashqai

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 140 - 205 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 4.5 - 6.8 L

Nissan Qashqai

The Nissan Qashqai blends practical, family-friendly packaging with SUV styling that refuses to shout, making it a sensible and dependable choice for everyday life. It’s comfortable to live with, economical on the road, and neatly equipped enough to feel modern without ever feeling precious — perfect if you want crossover versatility without the drama.

details

SEAT Arona

The SEAT Arona is a cheeky urban crossover that mixes sharp styling with sensible practicality, making it an appealing choice for buyers who want personality without fuss. It’s zippy in traffic, comfortable enough for daily driving, and brings enough character to make routine journeys feel a little more fun.

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Nissan Qashqai
SEAT Arona
Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation
Arona @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Costs and Consumption

Price
29600 - 39900 £
Price
19300 - 29300 £
Consumption L/100km
4.5 - 6.8 L
Consumption L/100km
5.4 - 5.6 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
102 - 154 g/km
co2
122 - 128 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
55 L
Fuel tank capacity
40 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1420 - 1665 kg
Curb weight
1188 - 1268 kg
Trunk capacity
479 - 504 L
Trunk capacity
400 L
Length
4425 mm
Length
4153 mm
Width
1835 mm
Width
1780 mm
Height
1625 mm
Height
1537 mm
Max trunk capacity
1422 - 1447 L
Max trunk capacity
1280 L
Payload
466 - 520 kg
Payload
502 - 522 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, CVT, Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
140 - 205 HP
Power HP
95 - 150 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 10.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.4 - 11.3 s
Max Speed
170 - 206 km/h
Max Speed
182 - 210 km/h
Torque
240 - 330 Nm
Torque
175 - 250 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
103 - 151 kW
Power kW
70 - 110 kW
Engine capacity
1332 - 1498 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1498 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
D
Brand
Nissan
Brand
SEAT
Is the Nissan Qashqai offered with different drivetrains?

Available configurations include Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.