Nissan Qashqai awarded five-star Euro NCAP safety rating
The 2014 Nissan Qashqai has received the top five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP, with strong results in adult and child occupant protection.
Nissan’s 2014 Qashqai has secured a five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP, following the latest round of crash testing. This result places the new-generation crossover among the leading models in its segment for safety, with strong scores across all major categories. The Qashqai’s performance in these tests highlights both its structural integrity and the effectiveness of its safety technologies, making it a significant contender for buyers prioritising safety.
Overview of the 2014 Nissan Qashqai Euro NCAP Rating
Detailed Safety Scores by Category
The 2014 Qashqai achieved an 88 percent score for adult occupant protection. Euro NCAP’s assessment found that the only notable shortfalls were in the chest area during the front offset and side pole impacts, where protection was rated as “Adequate.” Whiplash protection for front-seat occupants was classed as “Marginal.” Despite these areas for improvement, the overall adult safety score is among the highest in its class, reflecting robust crash performance and effective restraint systems.
In the child occupant safety category, the Qashqai received an 83 percent rating. The car provided good protection for both 18-month and three-year-old dummies in dynamic tests, with the restraint systems performing as intended. Euro NCAP also noted the Qashqai’s ability to accommodate a wide range of child seats, which is an important practical consideration for family buyers and adds to the model’s appeal as a family crossover.
Pedestrian protection was assessed at 69 percent. Euro NCAP highlighted the front edge of the bonnet and the windscreen pillars as areas with a higher risk of injury, rating protection in these regions as “Poor.” However, other areas of the bonnet performed better, allowing the Qashqai to achieve a solid overall score in this category. This result indicates that while the Qashqai offers some protection for pedestrians, there is still room for improvement in certain impact zones.
Safety Assist Features and Technology
Safety assist technology contributed to a 79 percent score in the Euro NCAP assessment. The tested Qashqai model included electronic stability control, seatbelt reminders, speed assistance, lane support, and autonomous emergency braking for interurban speeds. These features are increasingly standard in the segment and played a significant role in helping the Qashqai meet Euro NCAP’s criteria for a top rating. The inclusion of these systems demonstrates Nissan’s commitment to both active and passive safety measures.
The tested vehicle for this assessment was a 2014 Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dCi Acenta, equipped with a full suite of safety assist features. This version of the Qashqai benefits not only from advanced safety technology but also from a new engine lineup, updated exterior design, and improved cabin materials, reflecting Nissan’s broader efforts to enhance the overall appeal of the model.
Euro NCAP Testing Protocols and Qashqai’s Market Position
Euro NCAP’s safety testing protocols have become more demanding in recent years, with stricter requirements for both crash performance and active safety features. Achieving a five-star rating under these protocols is a significant accomplishment, and the Qashqai now joins a select group of crossovers that have met this standard. For buyers, especially families, this rating confirms the Qashqai’s credentials as a safe choice in a crowded segment.
Nissan’s focus on active safety systems, as well as structural crash protection, has paid off in these independent tests. The Qashqai’s combination of occupant protection, child safety, pedestrian mitigation, and comprehensive safety assist technology makes it a competitive offering for those seeking maximum reassurance on the road. The five-star Euro NCAP rating is likely to influence purchasing decisions, particularly among safety-conscious consumers.
Summary Table: 2014 Nissan Qashqai Euro NCAP Ratings
| Category | Score (%) | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Occupant | 88 | Adequate chest protection in some impacts, marginal whiplash protection |
| Child Occupant | 83 | Good protection for 18-month and 3-year-old dummies, flexible child seat compatibility |
| Pedestrian | 69 | Poor protection at bonnet edge and windscreen pillars, better elsewhere |
| Safety Assist | 79 | Includes ESC, seatbelt reminders, speed assistance, lane support, AEB |
Implications for Buyers and Nissan’s Safety Strategy
The strong Euro NCAP result underlines the Qashqai’s suitability for families and safety-focused drivers. Nissan’s investment in both passive and active safety systems, alongside improvements in vehicle design and materials, has contributed to the Qashqai’s strong showing. As safety ratings become a more prominent factor in car purchasing decisions, this five-star award strengthens the Qashqai’s position in the competitive crossover market. For those considering a new family car, the Qashqai’s proven safety credentials are a key point of reassurance.
