The latest Ford Kuga is the third generation of the company's popular family SUV, and a key rival to the Nissan Qashqai. Like all the best crossovers, the Kuga blends the style and practicality of an SUV with the cost-efficiency and ease of use of a traditional hatchback. The current Kuga was introduced in 2020 with a range that includes a plug-in hybrid version.
Often credited with creating the 'crossover' genre, the Qashqai has been a dominant force in the family car market since the launch of the original model in 2006. Over the years, it has evolved into a more SUV-like vehicle while maintaining front-wheel-drive efficiency, and like the Kuga is now in its third generation.
Ford Kuga vs Nissan Qashqai
Practicality
CarGurus experts rate both the 2020- Ford Kuga and the 2021- Nissan Qashqai with 4 out of 5 stars in terms of practicality.
Inside the Kuga, you'll find ample space for a family of four or five. The high driving position offers excellent visibility, although thick front pillars can be a minor hindrance at junctions. There's generous head and legroom for both tall and smaller-stature drivers, with lumbar adjustment for driver's seats, even in the base Zetec model. However, some may find the dash finish lacking in premium materials.
In the rear, adults can sit comfortably, especially with the sliding seats all the way back. The boot provides competitive space at 475 litres with the rear seats in place, albeit this drops to 411 litres for the PHEV plug-in hybrid model.
On the whole, the Qashqai is equally as practical with ample legroom and headroom for rear passengers. While lacking sliding seats for versatility, it compensates with a flat-folding 60/40 split rear seat and a spacious 504-litre boot. A variable-height boot floor adds convenient hidden storage or can be used to divide the boot into different space. The driving position is elevated, providing an SUV feel, despite the Qashqai's hatchback-like driving dynamics.
Driving Impressions
CarGurus experts rate the Ford Kuga with 4 out of 5 stars and the Nissan Qashqai with 3 out of 5 stars for their driving manners.
While not as nimble as the smaller Puma, the Kuga impresses with direct and well-weighted steering. It handles corners with enthusiasm, managing body roll effectively. The suspension offers a plush ride, smoothing over most bumps. The star is the plug-in hybrid, offering brisk acceleration and excellent fuel efficiency. Other engine options include petrol and diesel variants, the latter providing a focus on fuel economy for high-mileage drivers. Front-wheel drive is the norm, although the Kuga is also available with 4WD in certain trim levels.
The Qashqai's dynamic prowess may not match the Kuga's, but it provides a relaxed and effortless driving experience. The mild-hybrid petrol engines offer punchy performance, although they require higher revs for responsiveness. The innovative E-Power hybrid model delivers a smooth, electric-like driving feel. The steering is light but responsive, and the ride comfort impresses, even with larger wheels. Overall, the Qashqai offers a reassuringly easy and confident drive, aligning with its family-focused appeal. It's just not quite as much fun as the Ford.
Technology and Equipment
Both the Ford Kuga and the Nissan Qashqai receive 4 out of 5 stars from CarGurus experts for technology and equipment.
The Kuga comes generously equipped, even in the base Zetec model, which includes air-conditioning, a heated windscreen, electric windows, and front and rear parking sensors. Higher trims like Titanium Edition and ST Line Edition add advanced features like LED headlamps, a powered tailgate, climate control, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system is intuitive, featuring an 8.0-inch touchscreen compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Safety features, including autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist, are standard across the range.
The Qashqai offers an 8-inch touchscreen without Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for lower trims, and a 9-inch version with those smartphone systems for N-Connecta and above. While the graphics may not be as sharp as some rivals, the system remains user-friendly and includes key features. If infotainment is important to you, it's worth noting that the E-Power model of the Qashqai introduces a new infotainment system with improved graphics and a lag-free experience.
Running Costs
It's another tie when it comes to running costs, with CarGurus experts rating both the Ford Kuga and Nissan Qashqai with 4 out of 5 stars.
The Kuga PHEV is a standout choice for company car drivers due to its low BIK tax, thanks to a substantial electric range and low CO2 emissions. Private buyers may find it expensive but still cost-effective for low daily mileage drivers with access to charging. Elsewhere in the range fuel economy varies, with diesel models offering excellent real-world efficiency for those who do a high annual mileage. Insurance costs are reasonable, with the entry-level petrol being the most affordable to insure.
The Qashqai offers competitive pricing, and fuel economy is acceptable if not outstanding. Expect 35-40mpg in normal driving from petrol models, or 40-45mpg from the E-Power. Perhaps the biggest drawback in this comparison is that Nissan does not offer a plug-in hybrid version of the Qashqai, meaning it won't be as attractive as a company car. The same applies to the lack of a diesel engine, which might make high mileage drivers look elsewhere.
Reliability
While it's still a bit too early to gauge the third-generation Kuga's reliability, the previous generation earned a decent reputation, often placing in the middle for owner satisfaction and reliability. Ford's warranty is a little meagre by today's standards; it offers a three-year, 60,000-mile warranty, which is shorter than some competitors such as Hyundai and Kia, although a match for Nissan.
Similarly, reliability data for the current generation of Qashqai is limited. The previous model finished 28th and 30th (for petrol and diesel models respectively) out of the 39 cars in its class in the 2022 What Car? Reliability Survey, which isn't terribly encouraging. Nissan's reliability record as a brand also isn't as strong as you might perhaps expect. In the 2022 What Car? Used Car Reliability Survey it ranked 25th out of the 32 manufacturers included. Mind you, that's still ahead of Ford, which finished 27th.
Verdict
This is a close-run comparison, with both the Ford Kuga and Nissan Qashqai earning an overall ratings of 4 out of 5 stars.
The Kuga offers an engaging driving experience, spacious interior, and cost-effective plug-in hybrid option, all helping to make it an appealing package. While it may have some minor interior finish issues, it's an excellent all-rounder for families and company car drivers.
The Nissan Qashqai impresses with its style and technology, providing a practical and competitively priced option. However, the lack of more efficient engine choices might deter some buyers. The innovative E-Power hybrid is interesting, but can't match the Kuga diesel for long distance efficiency or the Kuga PHEV as a company car.
Without wishing to sit on the fence, both of these cars are good options. The Kuga's broader engine range including that plug-in hybrid model makes it the more obvious choice for company car drivers in particular. For everybody else, the Qashqai's more modern styling and larger boot might prove impossible to ignore.
Choose 2020- Ford Kuga if:
- You value an engaging driving experience with a range of engine options, including a cost-effective plug-in hybrid.
- Interior flexibility is important, and you'd value the ability to slide the rear seats to trade legroom for luggage space.
- You are a company car driver seeking low BIK tax and excellent fuel efficiency, particularly with the plug-in hybrid model.
Search for a 2020-2023 Ford Kuga on CarGurus
Choose a 2021- Nissan Qashqai if:
- You desire a stylish and technologically advanced family SUV with competitive pricing.
- You don't mind the absence of plug-in hybrids or diesels.
- You value having a more spacious boot.
Search for a 2021-2023 Nissan Qashqai on CarGurus