Sportage II (KM) vs Qashqai J10: which is better?
Kia Sportage II (KM) (2004–2010) vs Nissan Qashqai J10 (2006–2013): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Kia Sportage II (KM)
Nissan Qashqai J10Specifications
| Kia Sportage II (KM) | Nissan Qashqai J10 | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2004–2010 | 2006–2013 |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.0 | 2.0 |
| Power, up to | 141 hp | 141 hp |
| Torque, up to | 184 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | CVT |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 350 mm | 4 315 mm |
| Width | 1 800 mm | 1 780 mm |
| Height | 1 695 mm | 1 615 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 630 mm | 2 630 mm |
| Ground clearance | 195 mm | 200 mm |
| Fuel tank | 58 L | 65 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 16 475 ₸ | ≈ 16 475 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Kia Sportage II (KM)
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Hyundai/Kia Beta II 2.0 engine (G4GC): timing belt wear
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Beta II 2.0 (G4GC)): timing belt wear; valve cover gasket leak.
Nissan Qashqai J10
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- High ground clearance: 200 mm
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine Nissan MR20DE/DD (2.0): oil consumption with mileage
- Gearbox Jatco JF011E (CVT): pressure valve and pump wear
Engine (Nissan MR20DE/DD (2.0)): oil consumption at higher mileage; catalytic converter breakdown on early engines.
Gearbox (Jatco JF011E (CVT)): pressure valve and pump wear; belt and pulley wear; overheating when wheels spin.
Which one to choose
- Qashqai J10 — if you care more about: torque, ground clearance, fuel tank.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Sportage II (KM) or Qashqai J10?
Sportage II (KM): up to 141 hp, Qashqai J10: up to 141 hp.
Which has more ground clearance?
Sportage II (KM): 195 mm, Qashqai J10: 200 mm.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Sportage II (KM) — about 16 475 ₸, Qashqai J10 — about 16 475 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.