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10 September 2025 Nissan Qashqai j10 engines
The first generation Nissan Qashqai (J10) revolutionized the crossover segment in 2007 and quickly established itself as a popular alternative to classic estates and SUVs. During the seven-year production period, the engine range comprised various petrol and diesel units, which were characterized by continuous further development and adaptation to stricter emission standards. The technological evolution of the Nissan Qashqai j10 engines reflects the shift towards more efficient and environmentally friendly powertrains.
Nissan Qashqai j10 engines - market launch and first successes (2007-2010)
The first generation Qashqai launched with a sophisticated engine program that included both petrol and diesel variants. The reliability of the early J10 engines proved to be solid, with typical mileages of 250,000 to 300,000 kilometers with proper maintenance. Major repairs are usually due between 150,000 and 200,000 kilometers, with the 2.0 dCi diesel engine considered the absolute pinnacle of this generation. The technical innovations focused on the balance between performance and consumption, while the market positioning as a practical family cruiser set new standards.
Nissan Qashqai j10 petrol engines first generation (2007-2010)
The petrol engine range started with two proven units from the Nissan family. The 1.6-liter engine with 114 hp (HR16DE) was the entry-level engine and offered sufficient power for city driving, but showed its limits when driving on the freeway. The timing chain occasionally proved to be a problem with this engine after 120,000 kilometers and the ignition coils, which could fail after just 80,000 kilometers.
The 2.0-liter petrol engine with 141 hp (MR20DE) was the top variant and impressed with its harmonious power delivery and smooth running. This engine is considered to be more reliable and durable, with the main problems usually only occurring after 180,000 kilometers. Frequent weak points are the plastic intake manifold and occasionally the CVT automatic transmission with the corresponding equipment.
Nissan Qashqai j10 diesel engines first generation (2007-2010)
The diesel sector was dominated exclusively by the 2.0 dCi engine with 150 hp (M9R), which established itself as a genuine long-distance runner. This unit from the Renault-Nissan alliance impressed with its powerful torque of 320 Nm and moderate fuel consumption of around 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers. The mileage regularly reached 350,000 kilometers and more, which made the engine a favorite for frequent drivers.
Typical problem areas of the 2.0 dCi only become apparent after high mileages: The turbocharger can show signs of wear from 200,000 kilometers, while the dual-mass flywheel usually needs to be replaced between 180,000 and 220,000 kilometers. The injection system proves to be robust, but the glow plugs can occasionally cause problems after 150,000 kilometers.
| Engine | Power (PS) | Consumption (l/100km) | Typical weaknesses | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6 HR16DE | 114 | 7,8 | Timing chain, ignition coils | Average |
| 2.0 MR20DE | 141 | 8,5 | Intake manifold, CVT gearbox | Good |
| 2.0 dCi M9R | 150 | 6,5 | Turbocharger, flywheel | Very good |
Nissan Qashqai j10 engines - facelift and Euro 5 adaptation (2010-2014)
The facelift of 2010 not only brought visual changes, but also important engine modifications to meet the Euro 5 emissions standard. The reliability of the revised engines remained at the usual high level, with mileage even increasing slightly. Maintenance intervals have been extended to 20,000 kilometers, while major repairs are still only due after 180,000 to 220,000 kilometers. The 2.0 dCi with 150 hp remained the first choice for demanding users even after the facelift, supplemented by improved petrol engines with optimized efficiency.
Nissan Qashqai j10 petrol engines facelift (2010-2014)
The petrol engines received subtle revisions to optimize fuel consumption and reduce emissions. The 1.6-litre engine retained its 114 hp, but benefited from optimized engine management and improved fuel treatment. Fuel consumption fell by around 0.3 liters per 100 kilometers, while the known weak points remained largely unchanged.
The 2.0-litre petrol engine underwent a more comprehensive overhaul with optimized combustion chambers and adapted valve control. The power output remained at 141 hp, but the maximum torque increased slightly to 198 Nm. This version is considered more mature and has fewer problems with the intake manifold, as Nissan made improvements to the plastic material.
Nissan Qashqai j10 diesel engine facelift (2010-2014)
The proven 2.0 dCi engine underwent a careful evolution to Euro 5 conformity. In addition to an optimized exhaust gas aftertreatment system, the unit was given a refined injection system and adapted turbocharger geometry. The power output remained constant at 150 hp, while the torque was limited to 320 Nm.
The reliability of the facelift diesel even exceeds the already high standards of the previous version. Problems with the turbocharger occur less frequently as Nissan has optimized lubrication and cooling. The dual-mass flywheel is more robust and the first signs of wear are usually only to be expected after 200,000 kilometers. Only the more complex exhaust gas aftertreatment system can occasionally require maintenance.
| Engine | Power (PS) | Fuel consumption (l/100km) | Typical weaknesses | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6 HR16DE Facelift | 114 | 7,5 | Timing chain, ignition coils | Good |
| 2.0 MR20DE Facelift | 141 | 8,2 | CVT gearbox, intake manifold | Good |
| 2.0 dCi M9R Facelift | 150 | 6,2 | Exhaust aftertreatment | Very good |
Conclusion: The best Nissan Qashqai j10 engines of all generations
The engine range of the Nissan Qashqai j10 developed over seven years of production into a mature and reliable offering that satisfied both petrol and diesel drivers. Continuous development led to improved fuel economy and lower emissions without compromising the rock-solid reliability. The diesel engines in particular established themselves as the benchmark for long-distance capability and economy in the crossover segment.
- Best Nissan Qashqai j10 gasoline engine:
The 2.0 MR20DE with 141 hp after the facelift offers the optimal combination of performance, smoothness and reliability for gasoline lovers.
- Best Nissan Qashqai j10 diesel engine:
The 2.0 dCi M9R with 150 hp is considered the reference for efficiency and longevity across all model years, especially in the facelift version from 2010.
- Long-distance champion:
The 2.0 dCi with 150 hp after the facelift combines the lowest consumption with the highest reliability and easily achieves mileages beyond the 300,000 kilometer mark.
For all Nissan Qashqai j10 engines you will find high-quality spare parts and wear components at AUTODOC at reasonable prices.
