Nissan Qashqai N-Tec

The Nissan Qashqai is now only available in Acenta Premium, N-Connecta and N-Motion trim levels as a new car. However there are plenty of Nissan Qashqais out there on the second-hand market that carry the N-Tec branding.

The N-Tec was sold as a mid-level version of the compact crossover SUV that was focused on having all the technology you want. The N-Tec trim had equipment to boost technology and convenience, rather than luxury - that was reserved for the plusher and more expensive Tekna model.

The Nissan Qashqai N-Tec had an impressive 360-degree camera as standard, which you use on the touchscreen infotainment system. It also had Nissan's Smart Vision Pack, with a lane departure warning system, traffic sign recognition, active braking, high beam assist and front and rear parking sensors. It got sporty looks as well, thanks to 18-inch alloy wheels as standard.

Convenience features included cruise control, air-conditioning, sat-nav and Bluetooth for connecting up with your phone.

You'll find two petrol and two diesel engines in the used Qashqai N-Tec range. There's a small 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol with 113bhp, which is good for keeping costs down. It's not as slow as it sounds, but it's punchy enough and fairly smooth. The diesel versions are good for motorway trips as they're pretty economical, and they suit the Qashqai well because they're punchy. The 1.5-litre dCi 110 diesel engine is capable of returning up to 74.3mpg, according to the official figures. It's also cheap to tax.

Good points

The Qashqai is a good all-round SUV choice as a family car, and the N-Tec trim fits that theme - it has what you need but isn't as expensive as the higher-spec Tekna version. The 360-degree camera and safety kit are great to have and the sat-nav and cruise control are convenient and useful. The Qashqai in general is a good buy for those who want an SUV because it's decent at lots of things.

Bad points

The Qashqai is an all-rounder so if you have a specific need, it can be a bit lacking. For example, a Mazda CX-5 is better to drive, a Skoda Karoq is more spacious and a Renault Kadjar is better value. Yet if you want a Qashqai then N-Tec is a great choice as it balances equipment with value for money.

What you get

• Alloy wheels
• Folding rear seats
• Electric folding wing mirrors
• Rear parking sensors
• Tyre pressure sensors
• Front fog lights
• Auto climate control
• Leather steering wheel
• Height adjustable driver's seat
• AUX stereo input
• DAB Radio
• Cruise control
• Sat nav
• Stop/Start
• Automatic wipers
• Reversing camera
• Bluetooth

Recommended optional extras

• Spare wheel

Verdict

Our choice of Nissan Qashqai would be a 1.5-litre diesel version in N-Tec trim, as it provides the best balance of ability. It's economical but punchy, and good value. This comes with a caveat, though - the petrol models are much better for those who don't tend to do longer trips and spend more time around town.