Nissan Qashqai vs Mahindra Scorpio N
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Nissan Qashqai starts from $34,665 before on-road costs, while the Mahindra Scorpio N opens at $48,990. That makes the Nissan Qashqai the more affordable entry point by $14,325.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $38,132 and $53,889 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The Nissan Qashqai features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the Mahindra Scorpio N gets a 8-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mahindra Scorpio N counters with wireless charging and Sony audio that the Nissan Qashqai does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Nissan Qashqai uses a Petrol producing 110kW and 250Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.8 seconds.
The Mahindra Scorpio N responds with a 2.2L mHawk Turbo Diesel making 129kW and 400Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels.
The Mahindra Scorpio N has the clear power advantage at 129kW vs 110kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Nissan Qashqai measures 4,425mm long on a 2,665mm wheelbase, 237mm shorter than the Mahindra Scorpio N at 4,662mm (2,750mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mahindra Scorpio N generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the Mahindra Scorpio N leads with a 2,500kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 1,000kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.6m diameter
Good
Based on 10.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,853/year for the Nissan Qashqai and $2,052/year for the Mahindra Scorpio N. That is a $199 annual difference in favour of the Nissan Qashqai.
Estimated annual total: $1,853 (Nissan Qashqai) vs $2,052 (Mahindra Scorpio N). The Nissan Qashqai saves you roughly $199 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Nissan Qashqai) vs 7 years / 150,000km (Mahindra Scorpio N). The Mahindra Scorpio N has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Nissan Qashqai if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, or prefer Nissan's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mahindra Scorpio N if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Mahindra's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The Nissan Qashqai and Mahindra Scorpio N trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The Nissan Qashqai will save you roughly $199 a year in fuel. The Mahindra Scorpio N adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Nissan Qashqai and Mahindra Scorpio N?
The Nissan Qashqai is the cheapest at $34,665 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Mahindra Scorpio N by $14,325.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Nissan Qashqai uses the least fuel at 6.5L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
The Nissan Qashqai has the highest ANCAP rating at 5 stars.
Which can tow the most?
The Mahindra Scorpio N has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Mahindra Scorpio N has the longest warranty at 7 years / 150k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Mahindra Scorpio N makes the most power at 129kW.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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