Nissan has confirmed pricing and specifications for the MY26 QASHQAI, which arrives in New Zealand April 2026 equipped exclusively with the brand’s most advanced e-POWER technology – featuring key powertrain components manufactured in Australia.
The Nissan QASHQAI for 2026 arrives in its most efficient and technologically advanced form yet, with Nissan’s innovative ‘hybrid re-invented’ e-POWER system across the entire QASHQAI range, says Nissan.
Key highlights include:
- All-new e-POWER lineup
- New 5-in-1 powertrain with high-pressure cast aluminium components manufactured at Nissan Casting Australia Plant in Dandenong (VIC, Australia)
- 23% Improved fuel economy of 4.1L/100km (NZ WLTP) vs. MY25 5.3L/100km
- 26% Improved CO₂ emissions reduced from 124g/km to 92.7g/km
- +10kW boost in Sport Mode for more responsive performance
- New entry grade ST-L e-POWER from NZD $53,990
- NEW N-Design grade with unique exterior and interior styling as a launch limited edition
- Enhanced Digital Around View Monitor with 3D 8-point views, Skeleton Hood and T-Junction support
- Nissan’s all e-POWER lineup reflects the brand’s commitment to delivering the latest technologies to New Zealand customers.
“The new QASHQAI delivers the real-world efficiency of e-POWER to New Zealand consumers in a right-sized package that’s further optimised across multiple fronts,” said Nissan New Zealand’s Country Manager, Jenni Martin.
2026 Nissan Qashqai: e-POWER: “Hybrid Re-Invented”
e-POWER is Nissan’s electrified system that delivers an EV-like driving experience without the need to plug in. Unlike traditional hybrids, 100 percent of driving power comes from an electric motor, while a petrol engine generates electricity on demand.
2026 Nissan Qashqai: The e-POWER advantage
Nissan claims the e-POWER system has the following advantages:
- 100% electric motor drive – wheels are only powered by the electric motor
- No plug-in required – the advanced 1.5L turbocharged engine generates electricity on-demand
- Refuel at any petrol station
- Instant acceleration – no gear changes, no power lag
- Regenerative braking – converts kinetic energy back to electrical energy
2026 Nissan Qashqai: New Generation e-POWER
The new generation e-POWER system in the MY26 QASHQAI saw Nissan engineers achieve excellent efficiency, refinement and performance through the all-new 5-in-1 powertrain architecture.
In this case, the ‘5-in-1’ designation refers to the integration of five powertrain components – the electric motor, generator, inverter, increaser and reducer – into a single, compact unit.
This innovation reduces weight and complexity while improving energy transfer efficiency between components, says the company.
Paired with Nissan’s completely redesigned 1.5-litre turbocharged engine featuring proprietary Strong Tumble and Appropriately stretched Robust ignition Channel (STARC) combustion technology, the new powertrain achieves 42% thermal efficiency, allowing the engine to convert more of each unit of fuel into mechanical power and less into wasted heat – improving fuel economy, reducing emissions, and increasing overall power output.
The UK specification MY26 QASHQAI’s range capability was recently demonstrated when Nissan UK engineers completed the iconic Land’s End to John O’Groats journey – a distance of over 1,300km, further than Auckland to Wellington and back – on a single tank of fuel, with range to spare.
2026 Nissan Qashqai: Design
Across the range, the front grille of the QASHQAI has been updated to create a more striking first impression. It now consists of dozens of high gloss, three dimensional comma-shaped elements painted in high gloss black paint which appear to float in the space between the lip of the bonnet and the numberplate holder.
New headlights bring a sense of purpose and presence, and an even sharper look, claims Nissan. Below the main lens the daytime running lights consist of five small lenses which are the same shape as the “commas” of the main grille.
At the rear, the red lighting elements now consist of four individual elements which echo the shape of the front grille “commas”. They appear to float in the lens housing and are now a distinctive shade of red, known as “super red”, and bring a sense of elevated precision. The lenses are now clear, to allow a better view of the lighting elements.
The N-DESIGN grade is a new addition to the QASHQAI line-up, available for a limited time only as a launch edition. On the exterior, the lower body portion below the doors and the wheel arches are now body-coloured, while new 20-inch alloy wheels, gloss-black mirror covers and black roof rails all deliver added on-road presence.
2026 Nissan Qashqai: Interior
The Nissan QASHQAI’s interior has been enhanced, including the new patterned materials that adorn the centre console around the gear selector and the decoration insert between the upper dashboard and glovebox.
For upper grades, there is a new application of synthetic suede on the dashboard, door inserts, door armrests, and centre storage console lid.
Another new dimension to the elevated life-on-board feeling is the addition of ambient lighting from the Ti grade, giving an array of different colour options.
Updated seat trims have also been introduced, most notably synthetic suede leather accents∞ on the QASHQAI N-Design.
2026 Nissan Qashqai: Grade Lineup & MSRP Pricing:
Prices below are MSRP and do not include all costs relating to driveaway pricing.
- ST-L e-POWER: NZ$53,990 (new entry grade)
- Ti e-POWER: NZ$56,990
- Ti-L e-POWER: NZ$62,990
- N-Design e-POWER: NZ$62,990 (new launch special edition)
2026 Nissan Qashqai: Enhanced Technology Features
Beyond the powertrain improvements, the MY26 QASHQAI’s technology overhaul begins from the entry ST-L grade, now fitted with a 12.3-inch central touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay & Wireless Android Auto and enhanced technology features designed to make parking and manoeuvring even easier.
Enhanced Digital Around View Monitor (standard across all grades):
- 3D 8-Point Around View>: Virtually rotate the vehicle and select from eight different camera angles for improved parking and manoeuvring
- Skeleton Hood View: Provides visibility of obstacles at wheel and ground level, ideal for navigating narrow spaces where precise positioning is essential
- T-Junction View: Wide-angle forward view that increases visibility at intersections with poor sightlines or blocked visibility
The MY26 QASHQAI Ti grade and above also receive enhanced ProPILOT driver assistance with the ability to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes, updated lane keeping assist functionality, and improved display graphics.
Standard Equipment Highlights
The MY26 QASHQAI retains the comprehensive standard specification that has made it a favourite with New Zealand buyers:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Digital Around View Monitor (3D 8pt fixed) with Skeleton hood and T-Junction views
- Wireless smartphone charging
- Comprehensive Nissan Intelligent Mobility Safety suite
- Intelligent Key with Walk Away Lock and Approach Unlock
- Dual-zone climate control
2026 Nissan Qashqai: Availability
The MY26 QASHQAI will be available through Nissan’s national dealer network in New Zealand from April 2026.
For more information, check out www.nissan.co.nz
