Ford Kuga vs Nissan Qashqai: Which family SUV is for you?

Choosing a used SUV can feel a bit like navigating a maze. With so many great options out there, how do you find the one that’s just right? Two of the most popular choices are the Ford Kuga and the Nissan Qashqai. Both are brilliant family cars, but they offer slightly different things.

Deciding between them can be tough, but don't worry, we're here to help. We’ll break down the key differences to make your decision a little easier. In this family SUV comparison, we'll look at:

• Which car is more fun to drive?
• How do they look on the outside?
• Which has the better interior and tech?
• Which is more practical for daily life?
• How do their running costs compare?

Which offers the better driving experience?

How a car feels on the road is a big deal. Do you want something that feels sporty and responsive, or are you after a smooth and relaxing ride?

The Ford Kuga is well-known for being great fun to drive. It handles corners with confidence and feels stable on the road, with very little body roll. Its steering is sharp and responsive, making it enjoyable on twisty country lanes and just as capable on motorways or busy city streets. Many models come with different driving modes (like Eco or Sport) so you can adjust the car's feel to suit your journey.

On the other hand, the Nissan Qashqai puts comfort first. Its suspension is designed to soak up bumps and potholes, giving you a smooth and settled ride, which is a real bonus on less-than-perfect roads. The steering is light, making it a breeze to park and navigate through tight city traffic. While it’s incredibly comfortable, some might find it doesn't have the same sporty edge as the Kuga on winding roads.

How do the exteriors compare?

First impressions count, and both these SUVs have their own distinct style. Your preference will likely come down to personal taste.

The Ford Kuga has a sportier, more athletic look. With its sharp lines, bold front grille, and sleek, aerodynamic profile, it has a strong road presence. If you opt for a higher-spec trim like the ST-Line, you get even more sporty details, including larger alloy wheels and a rear spoiler that give it an extra dash of flair.

The Nissan Qashqai goes for a more refined and sophisticated style. It has a sleek, modern silhouette with a distinctive V-shaped grille that feels both bold and elegant. Higher-end trims like the Tekna+ add premium touches such as chrome details and stylish alloy wheels, giving the car a polished, upmarket feel that looks right at home in the city.

What about the interior and technology?

Inside, both cars are designed to be practical and user-friendly, with comfortable seats and plenty of handy storage spots.

The Ford Kuga’s interior is modern and functional. It features Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system on an 8-inch touchscreen, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, so connecting your phone is simple. Go for a higher trim and you might find features like a digital driver’s display, ambient lighting, and heated seats. Passengers in the back will appreciate the generous legroom and adjustable seats.

The Nissan Qashqai often feels a bit more tech-focused inside. Many models come with a slightly larger 9-inch touchscreen with Nissan's own infotainment system, which also supports smartphone integration. Top-tier models can feel quite luxurious, with features like a panoramic sunroof, soft quilted leather seats, and a premium Bose sound system. However, the trade-off is slightly less rear legroom compared to the Kuga.

Which is more practical?

For a family SUV, practicality is everything. You need a car that can handle school runs, weekly shops, and holiday road trips with ease.

This is where the Ford Kuga really shines. It has one of the largest boots in its class, offering 526 litres of space. The rear seats are also very flexible, sliding back and forth to prioritise either legroom or boot space. They also fold down almost completely flat, making it easy to load bulky items. It’s a very versatile choice for families with lots to carry.

The Nissan Qashqai, while still practical, is a bit smaller. Its boot offers a still-respectable 504 litres of space. Its slightly more compact overall size can be a real advantage, making it easier to park in tight spots and manoeuvre in the city. It has plenty of clever storage cubbies inside, but families might find the Kuga’s extra boot space and flexible rear seats more useful.

How do the costs compare?

Running costs are an important factor for any car owner. While the exact price of a used car depends on its age, mileage, and condition, the Qashqai is often slightly cheaper to buy.

When it comes to day-to-day running, both cars offer a range of efficient petrol, diesel, and hybrid engines. The fuel economy (MPG) is broadly similar, so you won’t see a huge difference at the pumps. Insurance groups are also comparable, though specific quotes will depend on your personal circumstances and the exact model you choose. Both have a five-star NCAP safety rating, which is great peace of mind for any driver.

Final thoughts: Kuga or Qashqai?

So, which of these excellent used SUVs should you choose? It really depends on what you value most in a car.

The Ford Kuga is the perfect choice if you want a practical family SUV that’s also genuinely fun to drive. Its spacious and flexible interior makes it incredibly versatile for family life, while its sharp handling ensures you’ll enjoy every journey.

The Nissan Qashqai is ideal if your priorities are comfort, refined style, and a car that’s easy to live with in the city. Its smooth ride, high-tech features, and premium feel in top trims make it a fantastic all-rounder.

Whichever you lean towards, you’ll be getting a brilliant car. Why not explore our range of used Ford Kuga and Nissan Qashqai models to find the perfect one for you?