Nissan Dualis/Qashqai+2 Review

When it made its debut, the Nissan Dualis single-handedly invented the compact crossover sector. Since then, it has gone from strength to strength, and spawned a whole host of rivals, including the Skoda Yeti and Mazda CX-5. However, unlike many of its competitors, the Nissan is available as a practical seven-seater. Revealed in 2008 and facelifted in 2010, the Dualis+2 is slightly longer than the standard car, but shares its decent driving dynamics and low family car running costs.

Dualis+2 1.6 dCi n-tec+

Engines, performance and drive

Despite its high-riding stance, the Dualis+2 feels most at home on tarmac. Accurate steering, strong body control, decent grip and a comfortable ride mean the Nissan is remarkably car-like on the move. Yet it combines this agility with a high-set SUV driving position that gives a commanding view of the road. What’s more, there’s the option of a four-wheel drive version for owners that do want to head off-road. The 1.6-litre and 2.0-lite petrol engines are thirsty, so for most owners the smooth and frugal 1.5-litre, 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre dCi diesels will be the best bet. A slick five or six-speed manual gearbox is standard on most models, while the four-wheel drive versions are only available with an automatic transmission (a CVT on the 2.0-litre petrol and a traditional auto on the 2.0-litre diesel).

Interior, design and technology

At a glance, the Nissan Dualis+2 is almost identical to the five-seat version, which means you get the same chunky SUV inspired styling cues and raised ride height. However, take a closer a look and you’ll spot the seven-seater’s extended wheelbase and longer rear overhang. All versions get alloy wheels, while range-topping n-tec+ and Tekna models benefit from rear privacy glass and silver roof rails. Inside, the Nissan’s dashboard looks a little dated, plus it can’t match the Skoda Yeti for upmarket appeal. Yet while some of the materials feel a little low rent, the cabin is robustly constructed and well-equipped, with air-conditioning and Bluetooth featuring across the range.

Practicality, comfort and boot space

With its seven-seat layout, the Dualis+2 is a more versatile choice than compact crossover rivals such as the Peugeot 3008. Yet it’s worth bearing in mind that the seats in the third row are cramped, and when they’re in place there’s virtually no space for luggage. However, in five-seat form the Dualis+2 boasts a generous 450-litre load bay, while a sliding second row bench allows you to increase either legroom or boot space. What’s more, the rest of the cabin is crammed with useful storage, including a 14-litre glovebox, deep door bins and a lidded cubby in the centre console.

Reliability and Safety

The five-seat Nissan Dualis scored a five-star EuroNCAP rating, so there’s every reason to expect the Dualis+2 to be equally strong in a crash. All versions benefit from six airbags, ESP and active head restraints, while LED daytime running lights are an extra cost option. Nissan has a well-earned reputation for reliability, and the Dualis is one of its most dependable models.