Nissan X-Trail review

Pros: Well-built, smooth drive, seven seat option

Cons: Could be more efficient, price walk to seven seater

 

 

The fourth generation X-Trail is an evolution of styling with the same rugged charm as previous versions but just a bit more modern and muscular. It has kerb appeal when you compare it to rivals like the Skoda Kodiaq, the Peugeot 5008, the Hyundai Santa Fe, and the Kia Sorento. Nissan’s smart new ‘V-motion’ grille features at the front framed by slim LED headlights and LED daytime running lights. 18-inch alloy wheels come as standard, while top of the range SVE models are distinguished by a 19-inch set and a chrome finisher to the front and rear bumper. There’s also the option of a contrasting black roof for even more contemporary style.

 

 

The X-Trail’s new interior feels more modern and upmarket than before with a simple, minimalist layout and the brand’s latest high-tech features. Made in Japan, the X-Trail’s cabin looks solidly built with good quality materials. There’s lots of standard safety equipment as well as dual zone climate control and a reversing camera. The mid-range SV Premium is the one to have because it adds Nissan’s full digital instrument cluster and more impressive 12-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay. SV Premium models also add an electric sunroof that floods the cabin with light. Top of the range SVE models add synthetic leather seats, wireless smartphone charging and a Bose sound system.

 

The X-Trail performs well as a family SUV with rear doors that open almost to 90 degrees. There’s lots of headroom and legroom for adult passengers too. The rear seats can also slide and recline a bit. Seven seat models offer a third row of seats that are fine for children.

 

There’s a little more boot space than before in five seat (560 litres) and seven seat (465 litres) versions but a Skoda Kodiaq is bigger overall. 60/40 split folding rear seats come as standard, but SVE models get a 40/20/40 split and a powered tailgate.

 

 

The Nissan X-Trail’s new lightweight platform introduces hybrid to the range for the very first time. Nissan’s new ‘e-Power’ hybrid technology works a bit differently to other hybrids by using a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine to generate electricity to charge a battery that powers the electric motor to drive the wheels.

 

In operation, the new X-Trail is impressively smooth and refined over the tarmac. Engine noise is well subdued from the cabin with just a touch of wind and road noise at high speeds. It's largely a comfortable cruiser though it does feel firm over manhole covers and other imperfections in the road surface. Five seat versions get 201hp while seven seat models come as standard with 211hp and all wheel drive. The X-Trail feels more compact and agile than many rivals from behind the wheel and is very responsive. One pedal driving is possible through the e-Pedal step and there is also an EV mode that’s best suited to short bursts of low-speed city driving.

 

Fuel economy is okay but nothing remarkable for such an innovative hybrid system. Nissan claims consumption of about 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres for the seven seat X-Trail but consumption was higher in real world driving.

 

 

The five seat Nissan X-Trail goes on sale priced from €45,995 in SV trim and there is a considerable price walk to seven seat models (from €54,995) – though they do come as standard with Nissan’s ‘e4orce’ all-wheel drive. SV Premium starts from €48,995 for the 5-seater and from €57,995 for the 7-seater. SVE starts from €52,995 for the 5-seater and from €61,995 for the 7-seater.

 

 

The new Nissan X-Trail has really stepped up in design and quality, making it one of the most desirable SUVs on the market today. The new e-Power hybrid makes the X-Trail far smoother and more refined to drive, though real world consumption is nothing remarkable. But for buyers looking for a big, well-built family SUV with a hybrid powertrain that doesn’t have to be charged, the new X-Trail e-Power has plenty going for it.