MU-X has a slight advantage, but Qashqai remains highly competitive.
Key Differences At A Glance
Performance
MU-X
(+2)
Efficiency
Qashqai
(+1)
Safety
MU-X
(+2)
Practicality
Equal
Ownership
MU-X
(+8)
Pros & Cons
๐ Overall Winner
MU-X
Pros
More powerful engine output
Stronger safety package
Better long-term ownership value
Cons
Lower fuel efficiency
Best For:Highway Driving
Qashqai
Pros
Better fuel efficiency
Cons
Less powerful engine setup
Less comprehensive safety features
Shorter warranty coverage
Best For:Fuel Efficiency
Who Should Buy What?
MU-X
Drivers who prioritise strong highway performance and overtaking power
Families prioritising stronger safety equipment
Long-term owners valuing warranty and ownership peace of mind
Qashqai
Buyers looking for better fuel efficiency
Category Breakdown
MU-X
Performance โ 12/20
Efficiency โ 8/20
Safety โ 20/20
Practicality โ 13/20
Ownership โ 20/20
Qashqai
Performance โ 10/20
Efficiency โ 9/20
Safety โ 18/20
Practicality โ 13/20
Ownership โ 12/20
Full Specification Comparison
Spec
MU-X
Qashqai
Ground Clearance
230
180
Wheelbase
2855
2665
Length
4850
4425
Width
1870
1835
Height
1825
1625
Kerb Weight
1950
1420
Gross Vehicle Weight
2800
1950
Seating Capacity
7
5
Boot Space
311
504
Towing Capacity
3000
1500
Spec
MU-X
Qashqai
Engine
1.9L Ddi Turbo Diesel
1.3L Turbocharged Petrol
Engine Type
Inline 4 Turbocharged Intercooled
Inline 4 Turbo
Displacement
1898
1332
Cylinders
4
4
Valves per Cylinder
4
4
Power
110
110
Torque
350
250
Fuel System
Common Rail Direct Injection
Direct Injection
Top Speed
175
198
0-100 km/h
11.8
9.2
Spec
MU-X
Qashqai
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic
CVT Automatic
Drive Type
4x2
4x2
Drivetrain Layout
Rear Wheel Drive
Front Wheel Drive
LSD Available
Electronic Traction Control
Electronic
Transfer Case
Single Speed
Not Applicable
Spec
MU-X
Qashqai
Claimed Mileage
14.0
16.5
City Mileage
10
12
Highway Mileage
15
17
Fuel Tank Capacity
80
55
Emission Standard
Euro 5
Euro 6
Spec
MU-X
Qashqai
Airbags
7
6
ABS
Standard
Yes
Electronic Stability Control
Standard
Yes
Traction Control
Standard
Yes
Hill Descent Control
Not Available
No
Child Safety Lock
Standard
Yes
ISOFIX Mounts
Standard
Yes
Brake Assist
Standard
Yes
Tyre Pressure Monitor
Standard
Yes
Engine Immobiliser
Standard
Yes
Spec
MU-X
Qashqai
Cruise Control
Standard
Yes
Adaptive Cruise Control
Standard
No
Lane Keep Assist
Standard
Yes
Blind Spot Monitoring
Standard
No
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Standard
No
Parking Sensors
Rear
Rear
Rear View Camera
Standard
Yes
360 Degree Camera
Not Available
No
Autonomous Emergency Braking
Standard
Yes
Spec
MU-X
Qashqai
Seat Material
Leather
Cloth
Seat Adjustment
Power Driver
Manual
Heated Seats
Not Available
No
Ventilated Seats
Not Available
No
Steering Type
Rack and Pinion Power Steering
Electric
Steering Adjustment
Tilt and Telescopic
Tilt and Telescopic
Ambient Lighting
Standard
Standard
Spec
MU-X
Qashqai
Climate Control
Dual-zone Automatic
Dual Zone Automatic
Power Windows
All Windows
All
Keyless Entry
Smart Key
Yes
Push Button Start
Standard
Yes
Wireless Charging
Standard
No
Sunroof
Not Available
No
Electric Tailgate
Power Operated
No
Spec
MU-X
Qashqai
Infotainment Screen
9-inch Touchscreen
8-inch Touchscreen
Apple CarPlay
Standard
Yes
Android Auto
Standard
Yes
Bluetooth Connectivity
Standard
Yes
Number of Speakers
8
6
Navigation System
Built-in GPS
Yes
Spec
MU-X
Qashqai
LED Headlamps
LED Projector
Yes
Daytime Running Lamps
LED
LED
Fog Lamps
LED
Front
Roof Rails
Standard
Yes
Alloy Wheel Design
18-inch Alloy
17-inch Alloy
Spec
MU-X
Qashqai
Approach Angle
23
18
Departure Angle
25
22
Wading Depth
800
300
Terrain Modes
Normal Mode
Normal and Eco
Locking Differential
Electronic Control
No
Spec
MU-X
Qashqai
Tyre Size
265/60 R18
215/60 R17
Wheel Type
Alloy
Alloy
Front Brake Type
Ventilated Disc
Ventilated Disc
Rear Brake Type
Disc
Disc
Spec
MU-X
Qashqai
Front Suspension
Double Wishbone
MacPherson Strut
Rear Suspension
5-Link Coil Spring
Multi-Link
Chassis Type
Ladder Frame
Monocoque
Spec
MU-X
Qashqai
Service Interval
15000 km / 12 months
15000 km / 12 months
Approx Service Cost
Moderate
Moderate
Battery Warranty
24 Months
2 Years
Spec
MU-X
Qashqai
Warranty Years
5
3
Warranty Kilometers
120000
90000
Roadside Assistance
5 Years
3 Years
Spec
MU-X
Qashqai
CO2 Emissions
210
145
Start Stop System
Standard
Yes
Hybrid System Type
None
None
Final Verdict
In structured scoring, MU-X emerges as the stronger overall package.
However, Qashqai may appeal to buyers prioritising different factors.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.