Nissan Dualis / Qashqai Review
2014-2023
The Nissan Dualis and its successor, the Nissan Qashqai (J10 & J11 Series), are staple urban crossovers in Kenya. Renowned for their elevated driving position, smooth suspension tuning, comfortable cabin layout, and fuel-efficient 1.2L to 2.0L engine options, they offer an accessible entry point into luxury crossover ownership.
*This score is awarded by our team of expert reviewers after extensive testing of the car
What’s good
- Comfort-tuned suspension: Absorbs Nairobi estate speed bumps and potholes smoothly.
- Sub-2,000 cc KRA duty advantage: 1.2T and 2.0L engines qualify for 25% excise tax rate.
- All-Mode 4x4-i option: Selectable AWD mode provides extra traction on slippery wet murram roads.
What’s not so good
- CVT responsiveness: Xtronic CVT requires regular fluid servicing to avoid sluggishness under load.
- Rear legroom: Best suited for young families or medium-height passengers on long journeys.
Most popular: Dualis 20G / Qashqai 1.2 DIG-T / 2.0L N-Connecta
5 doorsPetrol, DieselAutomatic, Manual, CVT
At a glance
- Model
- Nissan Dualis / Qashqai (J10 / J11 / J12 Series)
- Production years
- 2014–2023
- Body type
- SUV / Crossovers
- Seating capacity
- 5
- Fuel types
- Petrol, Diesel
- Engine sizes
- 1,197 cc (1.2T) / 1,997 cc (2.0L)
- Transmission
- Automatic (CVT / 6-Speed Manual)
- Drivetrain
- FWD or All-Mode 4x4-i
- Ground clearance
- 188 mm
- Source market
- UK / Japan (RHD)
Fuel consumption
Manufacturer / import-market figures: 15.2 km/L (2.0L) / 17.5 km/L (1.2T). Tank: 65 L (about 988 km combined). Real-world use varies with load, traffic and altitude.
Running cost
- City driving
- KES 1,773 / 100 km
- Highway driving
- KES 1,261 / 100 km
- 1,000 km a month
- KES 14,932
- Full tank (65 L)
- KES 14,752
Based on petrol at KES 226.96/L, 15-10-2026 to 14-11-2026. Combined economy unless stated.
Work out a trip cost →Trims & variants
20G / N-Connecta / Tekna
- Setup
2.0L naturally aspirated petrol (144 hp / 200 Nm), Xtronic CVT, FWD or 4x4-i, 15.2 km/L combined.
- Why it gets shipped
The core volume seller in Kenya, balancing comfortable power for highway overtaking with sub-2.0L import duty savings.
Package tiers
Package options for JDM and UK imports.
| Package | Level | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| 20G / Acenta | Executive base | 17-inch alloys, fabric seats, dual-zone climate control, and touchscreen display. |
| N-Connecta / Tekna | Flagship luxury | 19-inch diamond-cut alloys, panoramic glass roof, 360-degree Around View Monitor, and leather upholstery. |
About the Nissan Dualis / Qashqai
Kenya enforces an 8-year age limit from manufacture month and right-hand drive compliance. In 2026, 2019 to 2023 J11 facelift and J12 Qashqai models enter cleanly inside the legal import window, while earlier J10 Dualis units remain popular on the local pre-owned market.\n\nWith engine sizes ranging from 1,197 cc (1.2L DIG-T) up to 1,997 cc (2.0L MR20DD), all variants sit strictly under 2,000 cc. This qualifies the Dualis / Qashqai for Kenya Revenue Authority's standard 25% excise duty tax bracket, keeping customs clearing costs low.
Disclaimer
Tax figures are estimates based on October 2026 KRA schedules. Always verify specific chassis CRSP entries with your clearing agent prior to purchase.
