
The differences between the 2017 and 2016 Qashqai models lie in their exterior and interior designs. Below is an introduction to the distinctions between these two Qashqai models: Exterior Differences: The 2017 Qashqai features a fashionable design with a comfortable texture, incorporating the V-motion family language, which gives it a more refined and trendy appearance. The 2016 Qashqai offers a stronger sense of ride comfort, with just the right balance of support and softness, providing a more comfortable driving experience. Interior Differences: The 2016 Qashqai has slightly weaker power and an outdated interior, making its design appear overly conservative. The 2017 model, while maintaining a trendy steering wheel design, still retains a central console style from several years ago.

I've driven both the 2016 and 2017 Qashqai models, and the biggest difference lies in their exterior design. The 2017 version features a wavy front grille instead of the more angular one on the 2016 model, giving it a sportier look. The headlight assembly was also redesigned, offering slightly higher brightness, which makes nighttime highway driving more noticeable.
The interior saw significant changes: the 2017 model upgraded its central display from 5 inches to 7 inches, added CarPlay support for easier smartphone navigation connectivity, and improved sound system quality. The chassis tuning was slightly adjusted, making rides over speed bumps less bumpy and rear-seat comfort better.
While the powertrain remained largely unchanged, the ECU tuning in the 2017 model made acceleration smoother and more responsive. Space-wise, both models comfortably accommodate five passengers. The tire tread pattern was slightly modified in the 2017 version for better wet-road grip.
Maintenance costs are similar, but the 2017 model holds higher resale value due to being newer, making it a more cost-effective purchase in the used car market.

The 2017 Qashqai has made significant improvements in safety compared to the 2016 model. As someone who has driven for many years, I appreciate that the 2017 version added a blind spot monitoring system, which provides alerts when changing lanes, greatly reducing the risk of rear-end collisions. In city traffic jams, the automatic braking function reacts faster, ensuring timely stops if pedestrians suddenly appear. The wheels and suspension have been fine-tuned, resulting in less vibration on bumpy roads, so kids in the back seat don’t complain. The infotainment system has been upgraded with more accurate voice recognition—just say the navigation destination aloud, a feature the 2016 model lacked. The fuel tank capacity remains the same, but the 2017 model’s optimized aerodynamics save about 0.5 liters per 100 km in real-world driving. The steering system is lighter, making turns easier. There are new exterior color options, with a brighter blue standing out. Maintenance parts are interchangeable, but the 2017 design has fewer minor issues. Overall, the driving experience feels more stable and reassuring.

I noticed that the 2017 Qashqai has smoother power tuning and much quieter start-stop. Unlike the 2016 model which occasionally shakes during cold starts. The interior soundproofing materials have been thickened, making highway driving quieter. The maintenance technician said the parts are basically unchanged.

I chose the 2017 Qashqai mainly for its significantly improved interior. The seats have been upgraded with leather edging, making long 3-hour drives comfortable. The rear space remains spacious, perfect for family trips. The infotainment system operates smoothly, unlike the 2016 model which was a bit sluggish. The added Bluetooth quick connection makes switching songs convenient. The steering wheel is slightly lighter, making city driving effortless. The air vents have been fine-tuned for faster and more balanced heating/cooling. The new wheel design prevents dust buildup. Gear shifts are smoother with minimal lag. Fuel efficiency has been optimized for savings. Overall comfort is a notch higher.

The 2017 Qashqai slightly outperforms in terms of economy. For my daily commute, it consumes less fuel compared to the 2016 model, thanks to optimized aerodynamics and ECU adjustments. In real-world testing, it saves about half a tank of gas per week. Its resale value is a few hundred dollars higher due to being a newer model. It comes with additional features like smartphone connectivity, making daily use more convenient. The wheel design includes anti-slip treatment, providing better control in rainy conditions. Engine parts are interchangeable, keeping maintenance costs similar. The improved air conditioning system cools the cabin faster in summer. Enhanced sound insulation reduces driving fatigue by minimizing noise. Its more stylish exterior earns compliments from friends for being trendier. Overall, these subtle upgrades justify the slight price difference.


