Tried and tested over time, the Nissan X-Trail is a great sport utility vehicle (SUV) with more than enough space for family outings. It’s comfortable and refined and is capable of completing long journeys with ease. There are various model options and now the X-Trail has been treated to an array of major updates. This enduring vehicle remains one of the world’s most popular SUVs.
The Updates
Featuring a range of key specification changes, including the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android AutoTM2, now standard across the range, the new X-Trail continues to build its reputation. This latest model has also been equipped with Nissan’s next-generation in-vehicle infotainment system, including a new a 7.0-inch touchscreen with updated graphics.
Adding to the model’s existing and comprehensive safety package, Intelligent Driving Alert is now available with the ST-L grade and above, part of Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility technology, which is designed to make driving safer and easier. The Intelligent Driving Alert monitors input patterns during a period of driving to establish a baseline. After comparing subsequent driving characteristics relative to that reference point, the vehicle is able to detect and alert the driver when it recommends the time has come to take a break. This is an interesting development; essentially it monitors the driver for weariness.
The Nissan X-Trail is available with 2.0L and 2.5L petrol engines, alongside a 2.0L turbo-diesel power unit. The 2.0L petrol engine boasts 140bhp of power and 200Nm of torque, while the more powerful 2.5L alternative has 166bhp of power and 226Nm of torque. The turbo-diesel has 171bhp of power and a mighty 380Nm of torque available from only 2,000rpm. Not only does this deliver strong acceleration but also excellent fuel economy, using from 6.0L of fuel per 100km travelled on the official combined cycle.
Both four-cylinder petrol engines are efficient and responsive, we learn. The 2.0L unit features Nissan’s DIG (‘Direct Injection Gasoline’) technology and twin variable timing control to deliver strong fuel economy and plenty of torque. The 2.5L engine is available in all three model grades – ST, ST-L and Ti – and offers a strong blend of performance and efficiency, consuming as little as 7.9L/100km on the combined cycle. All have generous 60L fuel tanks.
The two-wheel-drive-only 2.0L model uses a smooth-shifting six- speed manual transmission, whereas all 2.5L variants (available in both 2WD and 4WD) are mated to Nissan’s Xtronic CVT (constantly variable transmission) with an added manual mode. This transmission’s broad gear ratio coverage and low-friction design help deliver strong acceleration and fuel economy.
All Xtronic-equipped X-Trail models come fitted with an ECO mode button, located on the dashboard. This function maximises fuel economy by controlling the engine and transmission operation to help avoid rapid acceleration by the driver; ideal for those long motorway drags.
The four-wheel-drive equipped versions have Nissan’s advanced Intelligent 4x4 system to deliver excellent traction in a variety of driving conditions. Controlled by the driver using a simple centre console-mounted rotary dial, Intelligent 4x4 has three settings: 2WD mode, AUTO mode and LOCK mode; the latter for sticky situations. Both 2WD and 4WD variants come fitted with Hill Start Assist. This automatically keeps the vehicle’s brakes applied when taking off from an incline to help prevent the driver from rolling backwards when setting off. A good safety feature. The 4WD X-TRAIL variants are equipped with Hill Descent Control which uses the car’s ABS braking system to control the vehicle’s speed at approximately 7km/h when traversing particularly steep downhill terrain.
On or off-road, the Nissan X-Trail has proved over time that it’s a fine family vehicle that can also tackle the rough stuff when required. The X-Trail presents a strong proposition for those in search of a mid-sized SUV. Get in touch with us here at MHH Japanese Cars for more details.
