Nissan X-Trail: The Nissan X-Trail has carved its niche among the burgeoning mid-size SUV plethora with a mix of practicality, comfort and light off-road ability.
The vehicle is now in its fourth generation and it keeps getting better with time and it carries its name with confidence while maintaining the same attributes that have made it one of the most popular vehicles in all major markets.
Design and Presence
The new X-Trail adheres to the latest Nissan design theme featuring the trademark V-motion grille, split-level LED headlights, and a beefed-up body.
However, its styling is hardly ground-breaking, with the X-Trail fitting somewhere between style and rural robustness.
A floating roof effect, created by blacked-out pillars and available two-tone paint schemes, adds visual interest to what is otherwise a fairly typical SUV shape.
Inside space is provided lots of thought has gone into the ergonomics and the interior is tipped with materials that would be impressive at a higher price point.
The multi-tiered dashboard with its contrasting stitching is a step up from previous generations of the truck.
And hard-wearing materials in the places where the whole family will take its toll are complemented by soft-touch surfaces in key contact points.
Practical Versatility
The X-Trail’s strength is its family-friendly approach to transportation. The flexible seating options include a sliding and reclining second row, so owners can decide whether they want to prioritize passenger comfort or cargo space.
Seven-seat options have occasional-use third-row seating: it’s a tight squeeze even for kids but it means some welcome flexibility for parents.
Competitive for the class is cargo capacity, and with a wide-opening powered tailgate available on upper trims, getting bigger items back there is a cinch.
A Place For Everything With its revolutionary Divide-N-Hide cargo system, the 2016 Nissan Rogue has a spot for all your stuff – put down the adjustable floor and look at how many packs of napkins you can fit.
Powertrain and Performance
In most markets the X-Trail is offered with a choice of a non-turbo 2.5-liter petrol engine and Nissan’s game-changing e-Power hybrid system.
The latter cycle is where a gasoline engine acts more as a generator to charge batteries, which then directly send juice to electric motors turning the wheels — a process that enables seamless acceleration and more fuel efficiency and can reduce range anxiety.
An optional Intelligent 4×4 system with terrain selection modes adds reassuring capability in poor weather or light off-road conditions – though the X-Trail’s focus is still very much on road comfort over serious off-road traction.
The well-tuned suspension soaks up the city’s blemishes well but it keeps a handle on body motions over twisty roads.
Technology and Safety
The centrally positioned touchscreen infotainment system is capable of wireless smartphone integration and accepting over-the-air updates, but the interface isn’t as user-friendly as some rivals.
Most trims come standard with Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite of safety features, which includes automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
ProPILOT Assist, which comes standard on upper trims, provided good semi-autonomous highway driving help, keeping its distance from cars in front and steering within well-drawn lanes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Excellent interior flexibility with smart storage solutions
Responsive and smooth e-Power hybrid drivetrain available
A smooth ride, even on rough roads
Complete safety equipment even in the standard equipment version
Family friendly practicality all the way through
More competent for light off-roading than the more standard rivals
Cons:
Conservative design might not turn heads in parking lots
Infotainment interface is slow to respond compared to class rivals
Third-row seating for occasional use or children only
Regular gas engine is just ok for performance
Some rivals have less wind and road noise at highway speeds
Top trim levels encroach on luxury-brand pricing
Nissan X-Trail: The Verdict
Nissan X-Trail There’s no secret to the X-trail’s success, it does what any Utilitarian family vehicle should / practical versatility, cushy ride and comfortable footing then won’t let you down.
It doesn’t do anything outstanding, but its rounded approach to performance and versatile, adult-friendly design keep it interesting in a competitive segment for mid-size SUVs.
But for anyone wanting a vehicle that can do weekday chores without feeling like a lumbering oaf around camp on the weekend, the X-Trail is a seriously strong overall package with substance before style.