Nissan Qashqai Problems

There’s no difference between the 2015 and 2017 models, the price difference can presumably be attributed to the two years difference in age, and the difference in kilometres done.

Not significantly. If you’re interested in a current model Quashqai I would wait until just before the new model is due and take advantage of the run-out sales that will surely come.

Diesels work at their best when they're running fully warmed-up and for long periods. If you aren't doing a reasonable amount of kilometres you can have trouble with the DPF system in the car, which can become clogged and require servicing to clear it. In your situation, doing very short trips to and from work each day I would buy the petrol variant.

The Trax is good value for money and stacks up well against all comers in the class. The 1.4 turbo is the best engine, and it has a conventional auto instead of a CVT that most of its rivals have. Others to look at are the Suzuki S-Cross, Ford Kuga, Nissan Qashqai, Mazda CX-5 and Subaru XV.

I am reluctant to recommend any European car, particularly those from VW, because of the problems that have soured the ownership experience for so many people. Rather than those you name I would be looking at the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V or Suzuki Vitara.

It’s a tough call, the Qashqai gets the nod on price and for having a diesel engine option and better luggage capacity, the XV is all-wheel drive, but there’s no diesel. The Nissan by a nose.

You left out my choice, which is the Kia Sportage.

The Qashqai is the right pick because of its bigger cabin, even if the Honda has lots of flexibility in its magic seats, but I would not commit without driving the Mazda CX-5, which is the class leader.

The CX-5 is a clear winner for what you want and is virtually a weekly recipient of The Tick.