Nissan has a long-running reputation for producing 4x4s and SUVs, with the brand in more recent years pioneering the idea of a crossover – a model that blurs the boundaries between a regular hatchback and an SUV.
These models have been key to Nissan’s success, and in fact, in 2023, the brand only sells one car that isn’t an SUV - the Leaf.
Nissan’s SUV line-up has changed quite considerably over the past year, with the introduction of various electric and hybrid models too. Let’s take a look at the range of Nissan SUVs available today and the model that might suit you best.
Juke
If you like the idea of an SUV, but don’t need a significant amount of space or anything too big, it will be the Juke that will appeal most. First introduced in 2010, it was an immediate hit and stood out thanks to its particularly funky styling.
The latest second-generation model arrived a few years ago, bringing an evolved – but no less eye-catching – design, more technology and greater interior space. While the Juke launched with a 1.0-litre petrol engine, the line-up expanded in 2022 to include an efficient Hybrid model capable of delivering 55.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 115g/km.
Qashqai
The Qashqai is the car that started the crossover craze all the way back in 2007, and ever since this mid-size model has remained hugely popular – in fact, it was the UK’s most popular new car in 2022. An ideal model for families, the Qashqai offers plenty of interior space, lots of safety kit and a very easy driving experience that will suit both urban driving and longer motorway journeys.
The Qashqai is only available these days with some form of electrification – either as a mild-hybrid or with a recently-introduced e-Power system that delivers impressive efficiency for a non-plug-in model. Nissan claims 53.3mpg and 119g/km CO2 emissions. Like the Juke, the Qashqai is also designed, engineered and produced in the UK, making it a true ‘British’ model.
X-Trail
If you need more interior space than what the Juke and Qashqai offer, it’s worth taking a look at the X-Trail. It’s been a part of Nissan’s range since 2000 and in that time has evolved from being more of a rough-and-ready 4x4 into a practical family crossover. These days it’s Nissan’s only model that’s available with seven seats, with a third row of chairs available as a £1,000 option.
Four-wheel-drive versions are also available, and while the X-Trail doesn’t try to be a proper 4x4, it adds extra security and capability to this SUV. It also adopts Nissan’s latest technology, as well as an e-Power hybrid model that’s available with the new e-4ORCE four-wheel-drive system.
Ariya
Last but most certainly not least is the Nissan Ariya, which arrives as the firm’s first electric SUV. Bringing an elegant coupe-like design, the Ariya is arguably Nissan’s best-looking car in years, while having a high-quality and advanced cabin that’s capable of rivalling the established premium brands.
The Ariya is also good to drive, and unsurprisingly as its new flagship, boasts all of Nissan’s latest technology. Various powertrains are available - with some including Nissan’s e-4ORCE system - while the large 87kWh battery option has a range of up to 329 miles.
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