Nissan X-TRAIL Road Test

Nissan X-TRAIL

While TREK customers have Nissan’s proven ALL-MODE 4x4 system, which is generally ‘on-demand’ or selectable via a switch. SPORT and AVENTURA, on the other hand have the latest version, ALL-MODE 4x4-i. It incorporates more sensors for extra stability on road and increased traction off road. The ‘i’ or intelligent part means the inclusion of Downhill Drive Assist (DDS) and Uphill Start Support or USS and the whole system works in combination with ESP, TCS Traction Control and ABS with EBD. Using a rotary knob on the centre tunnel, AUTO, 2WD (front) and Lock can be selected making the transition between settings very easy.

The AVENTURA eXplorer eXtreme, test car housed the 2.0 dCi engine. The original X-TRAIL only offered one diesel but demand has led Nissan to offer the 2.0 intercooled, turbo-diesel in two outputs; 150- and 173PS. We had the higher output version, which also produces 360Nm of torque at 2,000rpm, although, 90 per cent of that is available at just 1,750rpm, making it great for towing.

It takes 10.0 seconds to complete the 0-62mph sprint and the top speed is 124mph. The lower gears are quite short but once the X-TRAIL is in third gear it feels like a different car and the torque is still readily available in 6th gear at motorway speeds.

The fuel consumption figures are not the best in the world but remain reasonable at 30.4mpg (u), 44.8mpg (e-u) and 38.2mpg for the combined, while the CO2 emissions are measured at 198g/km. Both of the diesels have a self-regenerating, particulate filter that cleans itself periodically. As well as the 2.0-litre petrol unit, there is a 2.5-litre petrol, which has been refined and improved since appearance in the original X-TRAIL and is available in both SPORT and AVENTURA models.

All engines come mated to a six speed manual transmission but the 2.5 engine can be ordered with Continuously Variable Transmission or CVT and the 2.0 diesel, with a 6-speed automatic ‘box. Once again, these options don’t apply to the TREK.

The X-TRAIL used to be more workhorse than family car but the new one exhibits a much more refined attitude, not only in the tidier, more stylish interior or the very comfortable seats, but also in the more practical innovations. All in all, the new X-TRAIL seems to punch above its weight and without losing any of its original identity. That should please old and new customers, alike.

Nissan X-TRAIL