New Honda HR-V vs Nissan Qashqai: verdict
The growing family SUV class found its genesis in the Nissan Qashqai, but now the latest evolution faces pressure from the new Honda HR-V...
Our verdict
If you’re a company car driver, it’s hard to look past the new HR-V, because your benefit-in-kind tax bills will be so much lower. And even if you’re a private buyer – as more people reading this will be – the financial savings it offers over the Qashqai are big enough to be tempting.
The trouble is, the HR-V isn’t a very practical choice, aside from its clever fold-up rear seats. Plus, we can’t emphasise enough how noisy its engine is.
So, yes the HR-V will be better for your bank balance, but the Qashqai is the car that will be easier and more enjoyable to live with. For that reason, we reckon it’s worth the extra it costs if you’re buying outright or on finance.
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1st - Nissan Qashqai
For Great driving position; classy interior; more practical; very well equipped; stronger performance; much quieter
Against More expensive, even with discounts; not that efficient; slightly firmer low-speed ride; oddly weighted steering
Recommended options None
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Read our full Nissan Qashqai review >>
Find Nissan Qashqai deals >>
2nd - Honda HR-V
For Cheaper to buy, finance or run as a company car; excellent fuel economy; clever rear seats; reassuring handling
Against Incredibly noisy engine; small boot; tight rear head room; uncomfortable central rear seat; dated infotainment
Recommended options None
What Car? rating 3 stars out of 5
Read our full Honda HR-V review >>
Find Honda HR-V deals >>
Specifications: Honda HR-V
Engine 4cyl, 1498cc, petrol, plus two electric motors
Peak power 129bhp at 6000rpm
Peak torque 187Ib ft at 4500rpm
Gearbox 1-spd automatic
0-60mph 9.4sec
30-70mph 9.6sec
Top speed 106mph
30-0mph 9.2m
70-0mph 46.2m
Noise at 30mph 61.5db
Noise at 70mph 68.6db
Kerb weight 1401kg
Tyre size (std) 225/50 R18
Fuel tank 40 litres
CO2 emissions 96g/km
Specifications: Nissan Qashqai
Engine 4cyl, 1332cc, turbo, petrol
Peak power 156bhp at 5000rpm
Peak torque 199Ib ft at 1800-3750rpm
Gearbox CVT automatic
0-60mph 8.8sec
30-70mph 8.7sec
Top speed 124mph
30-0mph 7.8m
70-0mph 42.6m
Noise at 30mph 60.5db
Noise at 70mph 66.2db
Kerb weight 1580kg
Tyre size (std) 235/45 R20
Fuel tank 55 litres
CO2 emissions 146g/km
Test weather conditions Dry
Cars pictured
Honda HR-V iMMD eCVT Advance Style with Premium Sunlight White Pearl two-tone paint (£750)
Nissan Qashqai 1.3 DiG-T MH 158 Tekna+ Xtronic with Ceramic Grey metallic paint (£745)
