Nissan X-Trail vs MG QS
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 X-Trail starts from $37,750 before on-road costs, while the MG QS opens at $46,990. That makes the Nissan X-Trail the more affordable entry point by $9,240.
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 $41,525 and $51,689 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Nissan X-Trail by roughly $1,425 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Nissan X-Trail and MG QS hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 91% for the Nissan X-Trail and 88% for the MG QS.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The MG QS packs more ADAS features with 7 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 6 in the Nissan X-Trail.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the Nissan X-Trail and 7 in the MG QS. The MG QS adds a 360-degree camera that the Nissan X-Trail misses.
Feature Showdown
The Nissan X-Trail features a 8-inch touchscreen, while the MG QS gets a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Nissan X-Trail stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the MG QS. The MG QS counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, panoramic roof, power tailgate and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Nissan X-Trail lines up producing 135kW and 244Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8 seconds.
The MG QS responds with a 2.0L Turbo Petrol making 153kW and 360Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels.
The MG QS has the clear power advantage at 153kW vs 135kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Nissan X-Trail measures 4,680mm long on a 2,705mm wheelbase, 303mm shorter than the MG QS at 4,983mm (2,915mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the MG QS generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 205L in the Nissan X-Trail and 203L in the MG QS, giving the Nissan X-Trail a 2L advantage. The MG QS seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the MG QS leads with a 2,000kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m diameter
Good
Based on 11.0m 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 $2,109/year for the Nissan X-Trail and $2,394/year for the MG QS. That is a $285 annual difference in favour of the Nissan X-Trail.
Estimated annual total: $2,109 (Nissan X-Trail) vs $2,394 (MG QS). The Nissan X-Trail saves you roughly $285 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Nissan X-Trail) vs 10 years / 250,000km (MG QS). The MG QS has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Nissan X-Trail if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Nissan's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the MG QS if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The Nissan X-Trail and MG QS trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The Nissan X-Trail will save you roughly $285 a year in fuel. The MG QS adds peace of mind with a longer 10-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 X-Trail and MG QS?
The Nissan X-Trail is the cheapest at $37,750 before on-road costs. That undercuts the MG QS by $9,240.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Nissan X-Trail uses the least fuel at 7.4L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Nissan X-Trail and MG QS all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Nissan X-Trail has the largest boot at 205L.
Which can tow the most?
The MG QS has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The MG QS has the longest warranty at 10 years / 250k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The MG QS makes the most power at 153kW.
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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