The Nissan X-Trail has always had a reputation for being a tough all-rounder. Well, in tune with the times, things are changing: The typically distinctive styling continues to project a reassuring sense of prominence and robustness, but without all-wheel drive initially, although an all-wheel drive version is imminent. This latter variant will have a new all-wheel drive system designed to work with Nissan’s electrified power-trains called ‘e-4ORCE’ (please stop with the text-speak, manufacturers) which will deliver reassuring traction and confident acceleration in all conditions, they say, thanks to Nissan's most advanced all-wheel control technology yet.
On The Outside
This fourth-generation X-Trail still exudes that outdoors appeal that will be fine on simple trails as well as on the black-top. New design elements such as the floating roof and ‘V-motion’ grille augment striking headlights that appear moulded within the bodywork of the front bumper, all with combined daytime running lights and indicators nestled along the shut-line of the bonnet (hood).
From the side, powerful wheel arches at the front and rear give the X-Trail real road presence, whilst at the base of the doors, an inset feature brings a sense of fluidity to the sheer surfaces of the doors. Wrap-around lights complete the rear three-quarter aspect while split rear lights ensure a wide aperture for the boot (trunk).
Key aerodynamic features include "3D" tyre deflectors in the lower front fascia, an active grille shutter to control air flow into the engine compartment, special A-pillar shaping, underbody covers to manage air flow under the vehicle and a unique "air curtain" that precisely directs air flow from the front to the sides of the X-Trail.
On The Inside
The cabin sets a new standard for ambience, distinctive design and enhanced usability, say the company. It’s certainly fresh and modern with a choice of five- or seven seats. Enhanced with new premium materials, smart features and considered detailing, the interior offers cutting-edge design and practicality throughout.
Extensive attention has been paid to the ergonomic and tactile quality of the switch gear and buttons to give them a high quality feel. Customer research has clearly shown customers’ preference for easy-to-use core functions, so the X-Trail has simple, intuitive heating/air-conditioning controls, as well as buttons that govern the central screen functions, such as audio and navigation.
The top level of the floating centre console layout features the e-shifter, the drive mode selector and twin cup holders, as well as the 15w wireless charge pad for smartphones. There is a combined elbow rest for front-seat occupants, which has a “butterfly” opening, to reveal a cavernous storage space for valuables. The side opening elements allow easy access to the storage area for rear-seat passengers, thanks to a rear-hinged lid with additional storage beneath the centre console.
The rear doors open a full ninety degrees to allow easy access to the back, especially in the seven-seater. The second row of seats splits in a 60:40 configuration, plus there is a central hatch so long items such as skis can be easily transported without the need to drop either section of the second row of seats. The second row of seats can also slide forward to maximise the boot space.
Optionally, second-row passengers can have dedicated controls for the heating/air-conditioning system plus, of course a steady supply of USB power to keep electronic devices on the go.
When the two rear seats are not in use, the resulting boot space with powered tailgate puts the X-Trail among the leaders in its category for luggage space, with a total capacity of 585 litres. The improvements in the utility of the luggage area, we learn, make loading baggage easier and storing small items more convenient.
To enhance comfort and make driving more fun, the X-Trail offers an advanced infotainment system with a broad portfolio of connected services including effortless integration of smartphones, in-car Wi-Fi for up to seven devices, Nissan Connect Services and a dedicated app with which to interact with and monitor the vehicle, All compatible with streaming and telephone services.
A new high-definition, fully electronic 12.3 inch TFT multi-information screen offers a choice of configurable layouts to display navigation, entertainment, traffic or vehicle information, all controlled from a new tactile dial switch on the steering wheel. An innovative new 10.8-inch Head-Up Display provides the biggest-in-segment image size. Key navigation, driver assistance and road information are projected onto the windscreen within the driver’s line of vision.
The Power
On this occasion, we would like to emphasise the sensible benefits of this Nissan ‘e-POWER’ drive-train. With EV range and charging still an impediment, at least for long-distance users, the Nissan system strikes exactly the right note, embracing the best of electric car and good old ICE technology. All manufacturers should look at this system and think hard about this being the way forward.
Exclusive to Nissan, e-POWER is a unique approach to electrification, offering the EV-drive feeling without the need to recharge. The system is comprised of a high-output battery and power-train integrated with a variable compression ratio petrol engine, power generator, inverter and 150kW front electric motor. This unique power-train means that power to the wheels comes only from an electric motor, which results in an instant, linear response to the accelerator.
IN detail, this set-up has a 1.5 litre Variable Compression Ratio turbo petrol engine, with a final system power output of 201bhp (204PS / 152kW) equivalent. The petrol engine is used solely to generate electricity, whilst the wheels are completely driven by the electric motor. This means the engine can always run within its optimal range, leading to superior fuel efficiency in urban settings. “Linear tune”, which governs the operation of the petrol engine, ensures that it’s spinning at an appropriate speed relative to road speed, avoiding the “rev-up” effect of traditional hybrids under hard acceleration.
Thanks to the pure electric motor drive, there’s no delay as with an internal combustion engine or traditional hybrid. The instant response delivers an exhilarating high torque feel and agile acceleration to make overtaking or merging onto a highway easier and more confidence-inspiring.
e-Pedal Step
On average, seventy percent of drive time is said to be spent in suburban areas. On this basis, Nissan have developed a ‘one pedal’ driving experience called e-Pedal Step. Designed to take the repetitive strain out of stop-start urban driving, where the driver is frequently moving their foot between the accelerator and brake, e-Pedal Step allows drivers to accelerate and brake using only the accelerator, the system activated by a switch on the centre console and once engaged, the accelerator will deliver acceleration as usual.
Upon release of the accelerator, e-Pedal Step will brake the X-Trail at 0.2g, enough to illuminate the brake lights, and reduce the speed down to a “creeping” speed, not a complete stop. This ensures low-speed parking manoeuvres are as smooth as possible. It sounds great; let’s hope that drivers adapt to the idea quickly!
For those drivers not yet convinced, Nissan will also optionally offer a 12v mild-hybrid variant via the use of a turbocharged 1.5 litre variable compression ratio engine, powering the wheels in the traditional fashion. It will be offered only in two-wheel drive configuration, with power to the wheels being transmitted via the Xtronic stepped continuously variable transmission. In driving scenarios with relaxed driving and light acceleration, the engine switches to high compression ratio for optimised fuel efficiency, while in situations where more performance is needed, the compression ratio is adjusted to a low level.
To cap it all, Nissan have built a new suspension and steering design plus ‘Pilot Assist’ and all the usual safety tech we have come to expect and then some. For example, there’s now a central front airbag that deploys between the front seats for extra protection in the event of a shunt. Essentially, this is a legendary car that has had the mother of all make-overs to carry the brand forward. Find out more about this latest incarnation of the Nissan X-Trail from us here at MHH, exporting prestige cars to global destinations.
