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Renault Arkana vs Nissan Qashqai comparison

Compare performance (143 HP vs 205 HP), boot space and price (28,500 £ vs 29,600 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Renault Arkana or Nissan Qashqai?

Renault Arkana vs Nissan Qashqai: Key differences

Renault Arkana

4 (7 Reviews)
rate
  • very slightly cheaper
details

Nissan Qashqai

4.9 (4 Reviews)
rate
  • markedly more power
  • only slightly more efficient
  • considerably quicker 0–100 km/h
  • only slightly lighter
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

Arkana

Quick comparison: Nissan Qashqai VS Renault Arkana

The Nissan Qashqai and Renault Arkana arrive at the compact‑SUV crossroads with very different priorities. The Qashqai leans into a quiet, EV‑like driving feel and the latest Google‑based infotainment, while the Arkana trades on coupé styling, a frugal full‑hybrid setup and a stronger value proposition. That means the Qashqai tends to feel more composed and high‑tech in daily use, whereas the Arkana delivers larger usable luggage space and a lower purchase price at the cost of more engine noise and tighter rear packaging. This comparison unfolds the practical consequences: comfort, cabin usability, family‑friendly details, and how each car behaves in town versus long motorway runs. Read on to see which compromises matter most for your driving profile before we move into the numbers.

Qashqai

Driving character and dynamics

Driving character separates the two clearly: the Nissan Qashqai offers smooth, linear pull and an almost electric calm around town, but it never tries to be sporty. The Renault Arkana feels lighter and more eager to look the part, yet its hybrid powertrain can sound strained during hard overtakes and the steering never gives much feedback. For buyers who prize relaxed, effortless progress and a predictable drive, the Qashqai’s quieter delivery and steadier midrange will be reassuring. If you value style and economical cruising at moderate speeds, the Arkana’s punchy city‑hybrid behaviour and lower running costs are persuasive despite the less refined throttle response.

Arkana

Comfort and cabin feel

Cabin comfort and perceived quality reveal the trade‑offs: the Qashqai’s interior feels more modern and finished, helped by improved materials and the responsive Google system, which makes daily controls feel slick. Renault Arkana’s cabin is comfortable up front and gives clear, physical controls, but the Easy Link software feels older and the car becomes noticeably louder at higher speeds. The Arkana’s coupé roofline also reduces rear headroom and hampers rear visibility more than the Qashqai, which benefits from wider glazing and a better 360° camera setup. That combination means the Qashqai will feel like the smaller‑class premium choice inside, while the Arkana trades perceived refinement for a stronger visual impression and value‑for‑money feel.

Qashqai

Practicality and family usability

Practicality and family usability are where the Arkana and Qashqai split on real duties: Arkana offers a more generous, flat‑folding boot that swallows luggage, whereas the Qashqai’s load area can vary with its double‑floor layout and options. Both have annoyances — high load lips and some missing cargo niceties — but the Qashqai counters with wider rear doors, easy ISOFIX access and that 360° camera which makes loading children and bulky items less stressful. The Arkana’s cargo advantage is tangible for holiday packing, yet its coupé shape and lack of certain practical details (like a 12‑V socket or tie‑down points) make loading awkward at times. Families who prioritise seat access and everyday manoeuvring will prefer the Qashqai, while those who routinely carry larger loads will appreciate the Arkana’s flatter space despite the trade‑offs.

Arkana

City friendliness versus motorway behavior

City friendliness again leans to the Qashqai thanks to its EV‑like starts, e‑pedal style feel and superior cameras that halve the stress of parking and tight manoeuvres. The Arkana’s hybrid system is also city‑efficient and rewards gentle driving, but poor rear visibility and a slower camera system make urban parking more hands‑on. On long runs the Qashqai tends to be the more relaxing companion with lower cabin noise and a composed ride, whereas the Arkana is an economical cruiser until you heavy‑foot it, at which point wind and drivetrain noise climb quickly. Put simply: the Qashqai feels better for mixed commuting with regular motorway stints, the Arkana is an economical town‑and‑country car that asks you to accept a louder cabin when you push it.

Qashqai

Buyer fit and next steps

Which should you lean toward depends on priorities: choose the Nissan Qashqai if you want modern infotainment, calmer long‑distance refinement and family‑friendly usability that reduces everyday stress. Opt for the Renault Arkana if a strong visual identity, a bigger boot and a lower purchase price matter more than the last word in cabin quiet or latest software. Both cars make sensible choices—one favours refinement and tech, the other favours style and running‑cost economy—so your test drive should focus on motorway noise, rear visibility and how each handles heavy loads. Below we’ll unpack those trade‑offs with the technical details so you can match ambitions to the facts rather than the badges.

Frequently compared as well

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 …
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 …

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

Arkana

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Renault Arkana is very slightly cheaper – starting at 28,500 £ , while the Nissan Qashqai costs 29,600 £ . That’s a price difference of around 1,148 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Nissan Qashqai uses 4.3 L/100km and is only slightly more efficient than the Renault Arkana with 4.7 L/100km. The difference is about 0.4 L/100km.

Qashqai

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Nissan Qashqai offers markedly more power – delivering 205 HP compared to 143 HP. That’s roughly 62 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Nissan Qashqai is considerably quicker – completing the sprint in 7.6 s, while the Renault Arkana takes 10.8 s. That’s about 3.2 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Nissan Qashqai delivers noticeably more torque with 330 Nm compared to 205 Nm. That’s about 125 Nm more.

Arkana

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 terms of curb weight, Nissan Qashqai is only slightly lighter – 1,420 kg compared to 1,510 kg. The difference is around 90 kg.

When it comes to payload, the Nissan Qashqai carries somewhat more – 516 kg compared to 451 kg. That’s a difference of about 65 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Nissan Qashqai holds a decisive overall lead 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 £29,600
Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

  • Engine Type Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid
  • Transmission Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 158 - 205 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 4.3 - 6.8 L/100km
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Renault Arkana
Nissan Qashqai

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Renault Arkana

The Renault Arkana turns heads with its coupe-like roofline and SUV practicality, offering stylish presence without pretending to be a supercar. It feels composed and economical on everyday roads, making it a savvy choice for buyers who want flair and sensible running costs with a wink rather than a roar.

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Reviews Renault Arkana

4 (7 Reviews)
rate
Sonja
8 Apr 2026, 14:14:58

We've been driving the Arkana RS Line mild-hybrid for almost five years — and we're mega satisfied. At first everyone turned to stare. It's a good car to cover motorway miles, and fuel consumption of about 6.4 l/100 km is acceptable. Since our contract is ending, we're parting with the Arkana despite the lovely years together and switching to the Symbioz full-hybrid 160 Alpine Line. Hopefully we'll have a great time with it too.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Cesare
29 Jan 2026, 09:29:59

An excellent compromise between styling, practicality, space and fuel consumption. It’s not a sporty coupe, but practical for everyday use, with balanced purchase and running costs.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Hans Persson
19 Sept 2025, 16:05:49

An almost fully equipped car that's economical and stylish.

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.

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13. New refreshed Qashqai 2024 in fuji sunset color driving on the road in Faro, Portugal
3. New refreshed Qashqai 2024 in fuji sunset color driving on the road in Faro, Portugal
9-High
All-New Nissan Qashqai - Interior 32

Reviews Nissan Qashqai

4.9 (4 Reviews)
rate
karol
3 Jun 2026, 20:17:58

Great car — it has everything you need. Others are still learning, e.g. folding mirrors, a double trunk, and it's well soundproofed.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

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Renault Arkana
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Here’s a straightforward comparison between the Renault Arkana and the Renault Symbioz to help you decide which fits your needs. The Arkana is a production compact crossover focused on practicality and hybrid efficiency, while the Symbioz is Renault’s forward-looking electric concept showcasing …
Honda HR-V
Nissan Qashqai
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Choosing between the Honda HR‑V and the Nissan Qashqai comes down to how you balance practical space, fuel economy and driving refinement. The HR‑V shines for clever interior packaging and city-friendly practicality, while the Qashqai prioritizes comfort, tech features and a more composed on-road …
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 Symbioz
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Comparing the Nissan Qashqai with the Renault Symbioz highlights a clash between a proven compact crossover and Renault's forward-looking Symbioz concept that showcases the brand's electric and connected ambitions. This comparison will focus on how they differ in design, practicality and technology …
Mazda CX-30
Nissan Qashqai
VS
The Mazda CX‑30 feels like a premium compact with sharp handling, a beautifully finished interior and a focus on driver enjoyment, while the Nissan Qashqai answers with roomy practicality, comfort and sensible tech for everyday family life. Choose the CX‑30 if you want style and engagement; pick …
Nissan Qashqai
Skoda Karoq
VS
Choosing between the Nissan Qashqai and the Skoda Karoq is largely about whether you want a polished, tech-focused compact SUV or a straightforward, space-first family mover. Both deliver sensible packaging and efficient engines, but they differ in ride feel, interior cleverness and ownership costs …
MG ZS
Nissan Qashqai
VS
Cheap and cheerful, the MG ZS punches above its price with a roomy, gadget-heavy cabin and surprisingly sprightly electric options, while the Nissan Qashqai feels more grown-up — quieter, better driven and tougher to fault on long motorway runs. Pick the ZS if you want maximum kit for your money; …
Renault Arkana
Nissan Qashqai

Costs and Consumption
Price
28,500 - 31,900 £
Price
29,600 - 39,900 £
Consumption L/100km
4.7 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
4.3 - 6.8 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
106 g/km
co2
98 - 152 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
1,510 kg
Curb weight
1,420 - 1,624 kg
Trunk capacity
-
Trunk capacity
479 - 504 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,821 mm
Width
1,835 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
451 kg
Payload
446 - 516 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Full Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, CVT, Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
143 HP
Power HP
158 - 205 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
10.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 9.9 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
205 Nm
Torque
260 - 330 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
105 kW
Power kW
116 - 151 kW
Engine capacity
1,598 cm3
Engine capacity
1,332 - 1,498 cm3

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

The Renault Arkana is offered with Front-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.