Nissan's latest Qashqai has gone more upmarket regarding its features and pricing, but how does the newcomer's infotainment system compare with those found in the Audi Q3 and Volvo XC40?
With pricing now placing the new Nissan Qashqai firmly in the firing line of products such as the Volvo XC40 and Audi Q3, we decided to compare the newcomer’s infotainment system with its more premium rivals. With both the Nissan and Audi having different options in terms of infotainment, we have decided to use the best systems available in each product in order to make the comparison fair.
Nissan Qashqai
The new Qashqai has a massively upgraded infotainment system versus its predecessor, with a 12.2-inch unit that features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality as well as a 360-degree surround view camera and integrated navigation. There is also a 7.0-inch multifunction display housed within the instrument cluster and a Bose sound system.
Volvo XC40
The XC40 was one of the first products to sport a portrait-mounted infotainment system and digitised instrument cluster. The Sensus system was a catalyst for many of the systems we see in premium products now in 2022, but it was most certainly in need of an update, which came recently in the form of a new Google-based operating system called IVIS.
The 9.0-inch primary screen has been retained, as has the digitised instrument cluster, however, the system now sports a better resolution and functions such as Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play within the system itself. There is a Bowers & Wilkins sound system, AM/FM reception, USB inputs, Bluetooth connections and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. With built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, you can also update the system over the air from the comfort of your garage.
Audi Q3
The Q3 comes with a 10.1-inch MMI Navigation Plus infotainment screen in the centre console which is also fully integrated with the 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit. The system comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, USB C ports, integrated navigation, the Audi phone box and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. The impressive aspect of Audi’s system is how configurable it is, allowing the user to have three different displays in the instrument cluster.
Verdict
It would appear that the Nissan is simply outclassed by the systems in both the Volvo and the Audi, which both feature fantastic infotainment solutions, however, our choice would be the MMI system in the Q3 thanks to its superb resolution, ease of use and customisation options.
Sean NurseWith a lifelong passion for cars, bikes, and motorsport, Sean knew that attaining a degree in journalism would allow him to pursue his passion, which was to be a motoring journalist. After graduating in 2012, Sean was awarded a bursary from the SAGMJ which allowed him to work for a variety of motoring publications. This was a dream come true for Sean, and after a year of gaining vital industry experience, he was hired as a motoring journalist at a local newspaper and worked his way up to editor. In 2020, Sean joined the AutoTrader team and counts himself lucky to wake up and genuinely love what he does for a living.View News & Reviews
Keyword: Nissan Qashqai vs Audi Q3 vs Volvo XC40: Which one has the best infotainment system?