I recently had the privilege of driving the 2023 Nissan Qashqai ST-L for several days from Melbourne airport to Geelong, and around inner city Melbourne, and enjoyed getting firsthand experience with this vehicle. Being a Tasmanian resident, my usual driving backdrop consists of serene, less congested roads. Additionally, I am usually an electric vehicle driver, so my expedition on Melbourne’s bustling highways in a petrol car were an interesting comparison, especially with the Qashqai.
What stood out immediately was the level of comfort and ease this SUV provided even in unfamiliar and busier terrains. The Qashqai ST-L is a small SUV that offers surprisingly ample space both for passengers and cargo. Such generous space allocation makes it an appealing option for a novated lease family car. The interior felt roomy, and the car’s boot space was notably impressive, with split seats increasing cargo options.
Ensuring driver comfort, the Qashqai ST-L comes equipped with seat controls that offer precise adjustments, and I found the seat dimensions and headrest to be very comfortable.
Plugging my phone into the Android Auto system was effortless, thanks in part to the illuminated USB port in the center console – a small but appreciated detail. The 8-inch touchscreen provides access to vehicle controls and to a myriad of apps. Navigating using Google Maps on the touchscreen made the journey much easier, and access to my Spotify kept me entertained. For the Apple enthusiasts, CarPlay is also available.
Considering its suite of attributes, it’s clear that the Nissan Qashqai ST-L stands as a formidable option for a novated lease vehicle. Its blend of reliability, safety, and comfort makes it versatile – a quality indispensable for a novated car, whether they’re navigating city streets or covering longer distances.
Safety, often the paramount concern for many, shines in the Qashqai.
Features like blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking are not just checkboxes but active utilities. During my drive, I observed these features in action. While some safety nudges might take a bit of acclimatising or require adjustments in settings, their presence underscores Nissan’s commitment to driver safety.
One minor challenge was the initial engagement of the cruise control. But once active, it expertly maintained a consistent speed and safe distance from fellow highway travelers.
In sum, the 2023 Nissan Qashqai ST-L seems to seamlessly merge form with function, making it a worthy contender as novated lease family car. It’s easy to see why it was named Drive 2023 Small SUV of the Year. Whether you’re accustomed to tranquil Tasmanian roads or the bustling highways of Melbourne, the Qashqai promises a drive that’s both enjoyable and efficient.
