CR-V all day long. The Qashqai isn't terrible, as forum members can vouch for, but going by stats, it is much less reliable than the Honda.

Buying a used car is always a gamble, so reduce your odds as much as possible by going for something known to be reliable rather than hoping you end up lucky in a Qashqai (which, under the skin, is really just a Renault Megane).

Also, unless you need diesel due to mileage (generally regarded as being 15k + per annum) or for towing a caravan, stick to petrol.

I’d stick with a large petrol engined hatch or estate like an Accord, Avensis, Mazda 6 or Mondeo. A petrol Vauxhall Zafira is another good value family wagon.

That would probably make more sense. Assuming the OP isn't after the 7 seats of the Qashqai + 2 as the CR-V only has 5. Because they are less 'trendy', you'd get a younger example of the above for the same money. Can't imagine a Mondeo not having enough space for anyone who needs a 5 seater, though the higher seating position of an SUV (or an MPV like a Zafira) makes it easier to get young kids into and out of child seats.

The Nissans were about as much fun as kitchen appliances.

Kitchen appliances can be fun. My washing machine plays a tune after it's finished :)