Honda HR-V VS Nissan Qashqai
Honda HR-V
Likes
- Seriously good-looking inside and out
- Affordable price tag for grade level
- Easy to drive in the city
Dislikes
- Missing features you'd expect for top model
- Safety could and should be better
- Engine gets whiny on open roads
Nissan Qashqai
Likes
- Attractive design inside and out
- Strong yet frugal performance in e-Power
- ICE version’s athleticism
Dislikes
- e-Power still not available in cheaper grades
- Requires 95 RON premium unleaded
- No spare wheel in Ti-L e-Power
Summary
Honda HR-V
Like many car brands, Honda is storming the hybrid field. The new HR-V brings with it a hybrid powertrain and external facelift but is it enough to keep it competitive in the small SUV segment?
As with any cosmetic surgery you may wonder whether the facelift has been successful.
No tricks – I’ll tell you straight up the new external design might be what you’re looking for if you’re on the hunt for a small SUV that doesn’t look like it moonlights as an Uber for Mr Big Ears (a Noddy reference for any youngsters out there).
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We're testing out the top hybrid model, the L, to see what else this urban dweller gets right and what it sometimes gets wrong.
| Safety rating | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.5L |
| Fuel Type | — |
| Fuel Efficiency | 4.3L/100km |
| Seating | 4 seats |
Nissan Qashqai
Sometimes you wait ages for a new Nissan SUV to arrive, and then suddenly two come along in quick succession.
We’re talking about the third-generation Qashqai, which has already been facelifted inside and out after barely two years on sale in Australia.
But the real difference – and it’s something that may make you reconsider buying a Mazda CX-30, Subaru Crosstrek or even an Audi Q3 – is what’s behind the car.
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- Sleeping giant awakens: New Japanese car making powerhouse takes shape as Honda and Nissan merger progresses but will Mitsubishi make it a trio to tackle BYD, Toyota, MG and more?
- Is this the compact hybrid 4WD that Nissan needs in Australia? 2025 Nissan Kicks crossover SUV destined for Japan with Australia potentially in its sights as it emerges as possible rival to Hyundai Kona, MG ZS and Kia Seltos: Report
It’s something any new small SUV buyer won’t want to miss.
Let’s go!
| Safety rating | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.3L |
| Fuel Type | 95 Ron |
| Fuel Efficiency | 6.1L/100km |
| Seating | 5 seats |
Verdict
Honda HR-V7.8/10
The Honda HR-V e:HEV L offers a respectable driving experience in the city but compared to its rivals, it’s features list and safety don’t always stack up. It sort of straddles the fence between basic and lux at times, which is an odd place for a top-model to be but its sharper styling will win hearts and the cabin is still practical.
Nissan Qashqai8.5/10
The Qashqai is a rare case of being beyond the sum of its parts.
While far from perfect, the small SUV manages to be a high-quality, enjoyable, spacious, dynamic and very economical (in e-Power guise) proposition. Its upmarket aspirations aren’t overly ambitious.
But much more than that, the MY25 facelift gains the very welcome backing of Nissan in a way that no other car company currently offers across the board, making it an essential entrant on every small SUV shortlist.
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with accommodation and meals provided.
Design
Honda HR-V
The small SUV segment can often be littered with odd-looking cars that highlight pillowy or severely angular body-shapes (lookin' at you C-HR) but the HR-V offers something stylish and modern instead.
The 2025 HR-V has a sharper design that accentuates the coupe styling, slim LED headlights and crisp-looking grille. A feature highlight is the eye-catching full-length tail-light treatment which makes the design pop at the back.
The interior is gorgeous with a streamlined dashboard that features just the right number of buttons and dials for those who want more tactility in a world where screens rule.
While the technology screens are on the smaller end, they look great against the synthetic leather trims and soft touchpoints that are liberally splashed throughout the cabin.
The cockpit is driver-orientated with everything within reach and easy to use while on the go. The steering wheel looks sporty and feels wonderful.
Everything looks well-built and feels solid; it's a cabin you’ll be pleased to spend time in.
Nissan Qashqai
Now in its third iteration since 2007 (the original was launched in Australia as the Dualis), today’s generation switches to a global Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance architecture dubbed CMF-CD.
Designed and engineered in the UK as before, it is still very recognisably a Qashqai despite growing in all dimensions. And why not – consistently strong demand has seen the series become one of the best-selling British vehicles of all time.
To keep the weight from ballooning, aluminium is used in the doors, bonnet and front guards, for a 60kg saving, while body-in-white stiffness improves by 41 per cent.
For the MY25 facelift, the Nissan has gone for a more premium look and feel inside and out.
A dramatically themed nose adopts quite the LED light show, flanking a 3D-effect grille inspired by traditional Japanese Samurai shield design.
More up-spec models gain new, body-coloured side mouldings, as well as fresh alloy wheel styles, with the continuing 18 and 19-inch items now joined by quite striking 20-inch ones that fill out the mudguards nicely.
From the rear, you might also notice the now-clear tail-light lenses with different LED motifs. Otherwise, that’s essentially it for the MY25 Qashqai’s exterior changes.
The ambience also enjoys a lift inside.
Practicality
Honda HR-V
For a small SUV, the cabin is large. Both seating rows feature excellent access with the 195mm ground clearance not eliciting one grunt from my occupants (even the oldies).
Head- and legroom is decent in both rows but taller passengers might brush the ceiling on bumps when seated in the back.
The only area that lacks this feeling of space is the boot, as it only has 304L of capacity available when all seats are in use and that's on the tiny side compared to its rivals. The Kia Niro has 425L which rivals some sedans!
Seat comfort is best in the front where thick padding and a longer cushion offer more comfort on a longer journey, despite lacking lumbar support.
The rear seats are harder and shorter and you should expect some big stretches from adults after a road trip. However, the directional air vents and other amenities keep it from feeling too basic on comfort.
There are lots of storage options with a glove box that's large enough to fit a manual with room to spare, a small middle console, two large 'stacked' shelves in front of the gearshift, four cupholders, four drink-bottle holders and two map pockets that also feature a device holder large enough to fit my iPhone 15 Pro Max.
The HR-V has 'Magic' seats in the rear which means the base can fold up or the backs can be folded flat. It’s a cool feature that opens up extra storage options.
The technology is simple to use and responsive. The touchscreen multimedia system has built-in satellite navigation, the Honda Connect app, wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. The CarPlay is easy to set up and maintains a steady connection.
Charging options are good with a single USB-A and three USB-C ports, as well as, a 12-volt socket but you miss out on a wireless charging pad despite the L being the top grade.
Nissan Qashqai
The Qashqai is roomier than previous generations, thanks to a 19mm wheelbase stretch, improving the proportions as well as entry/egress, rear-seat legroom and cargo capacity compared to the older design.
But while that’s the same as last year’s model, a boost in materials and trim across the grades underlines the Nissan’s European heritage. It’s also said to be quieter, due to more sound-deadening in the firewall.
The N-Design cops some smart suede covering on the dash, which seems very posh, while the passenger side of the fascia has been slightly redesigned to give it a squared-off look.
Instrumentation remains clear and concise, with plenty of configuration to match an increase in ambient lighting choices in the more-expensive grades, while all Qashqais including the ST now feature the larger of the central display options – in this case a 12.3-inch touchscreen.
Otherwise, it's the usual, quality third-gen Qashqai fare inside. That translates to great seats, a decent amount of space up front, excellent storage, and intuitive (and most welcome) buttons and controls.
We’re also glad that the panoramic roof, where fitted, retains a solid cover. Other brands should pay attention to this.
This is a very user-friendly interface experience.
On the other hand, rear vision is limited, while the overall design is beginning to look a little dated compared to fresher rivals. It’s still easy on the eye, though.
Moving back, the (non-reclinable and non-slidable) rear seat is fairly spacious for most needs, given this is a small SUV. Taller occupants may find that knee room is limited. Otherwise, amenities abound, including a centre armrest with cupholders, overhead grab handles, air vents and (extra) USB-C ports.
Finally, out back, while the e-Power version of the Qashqai does lose up to 100L of cargo capacity compared to the ICE version (which ranges from 479L to 504L depending on the size of the alloys), the N-Design (404L) does boast a temporary spare wheel – a super bonus in a hybrid SUV – while the Ti-L e-Power (452L) doesn’t, oddly.
Meanwhile, under the bonnet, things remain interesting.
Price and features
Honda HR-V
There are three HR-V variants available, starting with the petrol base-model Vi X, moving to the mid-spec e:HEV X and on to the top-grade e:HEV L; which is the model on test here.
The L is priced from $42,900, drive-away (2000, NSW postcode), which positions it as the most affordable compared to its similarly graded rivals. The Kia Niro HEV GT-Line is $55,487, drive-away, and the Toyota C-HR Koba is $55,180, drive-away.
Despite having a much higher price tag, the rivals sport a few extra features including electric front seats, ventilated front seats, larger media screens, wireless Android Auto, a wireless charging pad and upgraded sound systems... just to name a few.
Oh, and the HR-V is only a four-seater, so the rivals also boast a fifth seating position.
That being said, the L isn't a total lump in the features department and the standard equipment is still pretty good (just not full-bodied like it's rivals).
The L comes with synthetic leather and cloth mixed upholstery and trims, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Technology includes a 9.0-inch touchscreen multimedia system with satellite navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, six-speaker sound, the 'Honda Connect' app, a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, one USB-A port, three USB-C ports, a 12-volt socket and Bluetooth connectivity as well as AM/FM and digital radio.
Practicality feels well-rounded with keyless entry and start, rain-sensing windscreen wipers, dusk-sensing headlights, dual-zone climate control and a powered tailgate.
Nissan Qashqai
Here’s a fun fact.
The just superseded Qashqai was actually meant to debut way back in 2020, but the pandemic delayed it for Australia until the 2023 model year.
That’s why this new facelift has arrived so soon.
Now, prices rise by about $300 over last year’s amounts, meaning that the range commences from $34,665 (all figures are before on-road costs).
While they remain significantly higher than cheap Chinese equivalents like the Chery Omoda 5, GWM Haval Jolion and MG ZS, the latest Qashqai more or less lines up with quality Japanese and Korean rivals like the CX-30, Crosstrek, Toyota Corolla Cross, Honda’s HR-V and ZR-V, Hyundai Kona and Kia Seltos.
That said, Nissan is mimicking some Chinese brands with an “introductory offer”, with the lowest ST and ST-L grades discounted by $2000 and $1000 respectively – but only until April 30.
This is the cheapest that this-generation Qashqai has ever been, and that’s without factoring in the extra features that the MY25 models gain.
All grades now include a large touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, auto walkaway unlocking and a new three-year connected app subscription, offering remote functionality, security alerts, location services and somesuch.
There’s also a host of advanced driver-assist technologies as standard. More on those in the Safety section below.
Result? You could now happily live with the base model and not feel like you should have studied harder at school! And the ST-L, adding 18-inch alloys, a surround-view monitor, phone charger, sat-nav and front parking sensors, is now very nicely equipped from $38,665.
Meanwhile, the intriguing, EV-first hybrid model marketed as e-Power switches from the previous Ti spec (widescreen digital instrumentation, powered driver’s seat, heated front seats, PVC/leather upholstery, ambient lighting, 19-inch alloys, roof rails, and all from $42,965) to more-luxurious Ti-L guise (boasting 20-inch alloys, glass roof, massaging front seats and more), with only a slight price bump. From $48,165 (internal combustion engine, or ICE) and $52,365 (e-Power).
Keep in mind that the new sporty N-Design from $54,365 is e-Power-only, so no ICE equivalent exists for now, and serves as the Qashqai’s racy-looking flagship.
To refresh, Nissan pitches e-Power against more-conventional hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), including the C-HR HEV, HR-V e:HEV, ZR-V e:HEV, Kona N-Line HEV, GWM Jolion Hybrid and MG ZS Hybrid+.
Disappointingly, however, and despite previously hinting at it otherwise, the company hasn’t imported a lower-spec Qashqai e-Power to Australia.
That all said, value remains the name of the game for the MY25 version. And it isn’t even the most compelling thing about Nissan’s latest European small SUV.
Let’s check out what’s changed on the outside.
Under the bonnet
Honda HR-V
The L is a hybrid which combines a 1.5L four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor and together they produce up to 96kW of power and 253Nm of torque.
Which is plenty to make the L feel like a zippy city car but on the open road, the engine has a tendency to over-rev and can get whiny going up a hill, which may be a by-product of the continuously variable auto transmission.
Nissan Qashqai
Nothing's changed under the bonnet, which means that you still receive a 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol internal combustion engine (ICE), driving the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Renault, Mercedes-Benz and others also employ this unit. In Qashqai for Australia, it produces 110kW of power at 5500rpm and 250Nm of torque between 1600-3750rpm.
Alternatively, the e-Power hybrid consists of a 1.5-litre, three-cylinder petrol turbo engine with variable compression ratio, that charges a 2.1kWh lithium-ion battery, to power the electric motor to also drive the front wheels.
This means that, rather than having a gearbox, it uses a single-speed reduction-drive transmission.
The e-Power engine alone makes 116kW and 250Nm, while combined power and torque outputs are 140kW and 330Nm respectively.
Along with eco, standard and sport driving modes, the e-Power adds the choice of a one-pedal driving function, that acts as a dynamo to slow the car down (not to a full stop, mind) while providing some additional battery recharge.
E-Power, then, remains as an easy yet effective stepping stone between a regular hybrid and a full EV. And you won’t need to plug it in, ever.
Note, however, that the e-Power’s braked towing capacity is halved from the ICE version’s 1500kg.
Keeping all that under control is a MacPherson style strut-front and multi-link rear suspension set-up.
Efficiency
Honda HR-V
The HR-V L has a low combined (urban/extra-urban) fuel cycle figure of just 4.3L/100km which is not far off the 4.0L/100km claims of its rivals. Combined with the 40L fuel tank, you have a theoretical driving range of up to 930km, which is pretty darn good!
After doing a lot of urban driving, with a couple of longer trips thrown in, my real-world usage came out at 5.1L, which is isn't too far off the claimed figure, is still a good result overall and computes to a range in excess of 780km.
Nissan Qashqai
Nissan claims the ICE and e-Power Qashqais average between 5.8 and 6.1 litres per 100km, and 4.8L/100km, respectively.
Brimming the 55L fuel tank, expect a theoretical range of up to about 940km (ICE) and 1140km (hybrid) between refills for the latter.
These figures translate to CO2 ratings between 134 and 138 grams per kilometre (ICE) and 112g/km (hybrid) – not too bad for a small-ish hybrid SUV that weights up to 1732kg (kerb).
Note, though, that they have a thirst for more-expensive 95 RON premium unleaded petrol.
So much for the theory.
On our 200km or so launch loop in the ICE version of the Qashqai, we managed a frankly disappointing 10L/100km, although the engine was very new and tight, whilst the e-Power delivered an extremely respectable 5.5L/100km.
That’s a hard figure to ignore, particularly when you consider how much more oomph electrification brings.
Driving
Honda HR-V
The HR-V L is an SUV perfectly suited to city life. Its power delivery is responsive around town, allowing for quick bursts when needed and the well of power feels deep until you get onto the open road. And as mentioned, that’s when it’s let down a bit.
The HR-V has a tendency towards mild understeer in quicker sweeping bends but is otherwise surefooted on the road. The suspension is firm, and you’ll notice the bumps here and there, but ride comfort still manages to be okay most of the time. Also road noise isn’t too high around town.
The visibility is great until you’re trying to look out of the back window and have a passenger to your left or a car seat installed. A digital rearview mirror would have been quite welcome in these scenarios.
Like most small SUVs the HR-V is easy to park and it’s small enough to be your best friend in a tiny car park. However, the reversing camera doesn’t reflect the grade level as the quality of the feed isn’t the best.
Nissan Qashqai
So, what's the MY25 Qashqai like from behind the wheel?
Given that there have been no changes mechanically, it's no surprise to learn that the Nissan feels the same to drive compared to last year's model.
In the e-Power, this means ultra-smooth and near-silent acceleration, at least initially, backed up by a surge of instant torque, highlighting the EV-first powertrain at play here.
And while you do notice the petrol engine chiming with an oddly consistent drone to help replenish the battery, it isn’t too loud or unpleasant. And the extra muscle it provides helps make the hybrid Qashqai a rapid point-to-point machine.
Responsive steering is another plus point, for engaging and precise handling. And, unlike most hybrids and some EVs, the e-Power somehow manages to avoid the dreaded dead/wooden brake-pedal syndrome, and instead delivers reassuringly progressive stopping abilities.
However, in one example of the N-Design e-Power wearing the standard 20-inch wheel/tyre package, we experienced a dramatic weight shift when attempting a fast left-right turn through a roundabout, causing the rear to break traction and swing out slightly. The stability control immediately prevented a spin, staving off any potential whoopsies, but it was disconcerting, especially as this happened on a hot, dry day.
In contrast, the standard 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine versions felt altogether lighter and more athletic – no shock given their 200kg advantage compared to e-Power equivalents. And that manifests itself in a car with greater agility, a little bit more control, and ultimately a more fun small SUV to drive.
The ICE Qashqai is also quite a quick thing, as long as you're willing to prod the pedal a bit longer and harder, since it doesn’t enjoy the electric motor assistance (or real-world economy) of its hybrid sister. You’d also be hard pressed to pick it as a CVT, unless you fang it.
From an overall model-range point of view, on the 20-inch wheel Ti-L and N-Design grades, the suspension feels fairly compliant, at least on the roads we tested them on, balancing comfort and control. The larger alloys do make the ride feel a bit firmer over some surfaces, but never harsh or crashy. The Euro Nissans provide pleasing refinement.
Credit, too, for the company bothering to expertly road tune the software. The electronic driver-assist systems work with and not against the driver, intervening with a level of nuance that roundly shames the many ill-sorted Chinese SUV alternatives in this area – including more-expensive EV models. No paranoid chimes, incessant buzzes or obtrusive wheel tugging here to annoy, distract and infuriate.
Indeed, dynamically, the Qashqai is right up there with many premium European SUVs costing much more.
If it wore an Infiniti badge rather than a Nissan one, nobody would bat an eyelid. Worth the premium over cheaper, less complete alternatives? We think so.
Safety
Honda HR-V
The HR-V has a four- out of a possible five-star ANCAP safety rating from testing done in 2022. It only features six airbags and its individual assessment scores aren’t as high as its rivals.
In fact, both the rivals I’ve mentioned performed much better and have additional safety features to boot, including safe exit assist, 360-degree view camera systems and rear occupant alert. Which the HR-V misses out on.
The top model HR-V benefits the most in safety compared to the lower grades and includes blind-spot monitoring, front fog lights, forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping aid and departure warning, traffic sign recognition, intelligent seatbelt warning, adaptive cruise control and a reversing camera as well as front and rear parking sensors.
Some notes, though. The lane departure and keeping aids seem to 'activate' whenever they feel like it. I had them come on more on unmarked roads than marked.
The adaptive cruise control can be too sensitive at times and having the car slam on brakes when you're passing a parked car on the highway going 100km/h is a scary experience to say the least.
The HR-V has AEB with car, pedestrian, and cyclist detection which is operational from 5.0 to 100km/h (170km/h for car).
Being a four-seater, you only get two ISOFIX child seat mounts and two top-tether anchor points and while it is easy to fit a child seat in, the top of it wipes out your rearview vision.
The safety is pretty disappointing as it lets down an otherwise solid SUV.
Nissan Qashqai
Even though the pre-facelift model scored a five-star ANCAP crash-test rating, there are some differences between the cheaper and more expensive Qashqais when it comes to technology.
Namely that, for Nissan’s Pro-Pilot active lane-keep assist tech, a surround-view camera, front parking sensors and an alarm, you’ll need to stretch to the Ti grade and up.
Otherwise, all models include the expected driver-assist safety systems, including autonomous emergency braking (AEB) fitted front and rear with pedestrian, cyclist and back-over detection, lane-keep assist systems, blind-spot warning, adaptive cruise control, a driver fatigue monitor, auto high beams, traffic sign recognition, rear parking sensors, anti-lock braking system with brake assist, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, hill-start assist, stability control, traction control and seven airbags with front-to-rear curtain as well as front-centre occupant protection.
The e-Power also adds a vehicle approach sound for pedestrians and cyclists. Note, too, that Nissan’s AEB kicks in from 5-130km/h, pedestrian and cyclist AEB from 10-80km/h, and the lane support systems work between 60-250km/h.
Finally, ISOFIX child-seat latches are fitted to outboard rear seat positions, while a trio of top tethers for straps are included across the rear bench.
Ownership
Honda HR-V
Honda offers the HR-V with a five-year/unlimited km warranty and an eight-year battery warranty which is on the lower end considering it's rivals can get up to seven-years unlimited km warranty now.
The five years capped-priced servicing program offers excellent value, however, as services are a flat $199, which is great for the class.
Servicing intervals are at every 12 months or 10,000km, whichever occurs first and that should be fine for the average city dweller. But it could get annoying if you put higher than average kays on your car every year.
Nissan Qashqai
Finally, we've saved the biggest and best MY25 Qashqai news for last.
While the regular five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty continues, if you choose to have it serviced at a Nissan dealer, that extends to 10 years and 300,000km, and includes roadside assistance.
The petrol versions are due for a service every 15,000km/12 months, but the e-Power hybrid variants are due for a check every 10,000km/12 months.
Furthermore, you only pay $399 per service for the first five years, and that represents a saving of over $1050 compared to the pre-facelift Qashqai.
Collectively, they make this warranty scheme the best in the industry. Nice work, Nissan. A rare 10/10 for you in this segment.