Nissan X-TRAIL Review

Nissan X-TRAIL

On the subject of good, non-optional extras, all X-TRAILs have Bluetooth connectivity integrated into the audio system. Once set up your Bluetooth-enabled, phone can be kept in a pocket or bag, while the system automatically recognises its presence. Calls are made or answered via the buttons on the steering wheel and caller ID is displayed on the audio screen.

Due to the increasing popularity of satellite navigation systems, the instrument cluster has been moved back behind the steering wheel, to make room for a screen in the centre stack. It has meant the loss of the dash-top storage bin but this has been replaced by another box, just above the central tunnel, which is capable of holding ten CD cases. Cooled and heated cupholders are positioned in strategic places, the most sensible of which are lidded and at the extremes of the dashboard, at the base of the A-pillar, near the air-vent.

There are three rim levels; TREK, SPORT and AVENTURA, with the latter two further extended by means of upgrades. The TREK is available with either a 2.0-litre petrol engine or a 2.0dCi, diesel with prices of £18,795 and £20,395. For that you get 16-inch alloys, powered windows, front and rear; powered, adjustable door mirrors, climate control air conditioning, a single CD/radio with four speakers and the aforementioned Bluetooth and floor systems.

SPORT is a big step up in terms of specification, accordingly, the prices range from £20,695 to £22,595. On the list are 17-inch alloys, a rake-and reach-adjustable steering column complete with leather-clad steering wheel and secondary audio controls. Other gains include heated door mirrors, front foglights, automatic headlights and wipers, a huge panoramic sunroof, cruise control and a 6-CD autochanger with two extra speakers.

SPORT eXpedition adds an intelligent key system, DVD satellite navigation and a rear parking camera. But then the SPORT eXpedition eXtreme goes a step further by swapping the existing roof rails for boxy runners that are tapered at the front, where the extra spotlights are inset.

AVENTURA is the top grade, X-TRAIL, priced between £22,695 and £24, 595. The AVENTURA has everything the SPORT has but more, in the form of leather upholstery, powered and heated front seats, a stylish titanium finish, centre console, powered folding door mirrors and a tailgate, entry guard.

Instead of eXpedition, the first AVENTURA upgrade is called eXplorer but appears to add the same items, while the AVENTURA eXplorer eXtreme has the strange Extreme roof rails, which can be bought separately for £425, except for TREK customers. The lights have a separate switch and only illuminate when the headlights are on full beam. They do their job well but should only be used for night-time off-roading and not lighting up the local high street, tempting as it is.

Nissan X-TRAIL