It’s usual in the Northern Hemisphere that, in high Summer, car manufacturers will be biding their time, waiting for the Autumn launches and announcements about forthcoming vehicles in 2025. News still comes out however and a couple of talking points from the Japanese brand Nissan, is the use of their e-4ORCE (see what they did there?) electric technology in the latest all-wheel drive X-Trail N-Trek is being highlighted as is the return of the performance arm of the brand, NISMO.
This company has of course been at the forefront of the electrification of cars and vans as can be recalled by the now venerable Leaf EV (electric vehicle) one of the first of its type on the market and a car that we here at MHH International have previously exported from the UK to satisfied customers globally. Potential car buyers living in Kenya, New Zealand, Ireland, the Caribbean and, in fact, most ‘Right-Hand-Drive’ nations will find that our comprehensive service is very straightforward. You can read all about it here.
Nissan X-Trail N-Trek
Nissan’s long-established and now electrified family SUV takes a further step into the future with the introduction of this new N-Trek variant (see our photos), aimed at adventurous families or indeed anyone with a hankering for the great outdoors.
Slotting into the X-Trail range between the N-Connecta and premium Tekna grades, N-Trek adds design elements that enhance the model’s sense of no-nonsense robustness. Crucially, there are new protective lower bumpers front and rear, with a gunmetal finish and integrated LED fog lamps. New 18 inch diamond-cut gloss black alloy wheels combine with gloss black wing mirrors and dark roof rails and trim to give the N-Trek a stealthy, purposeful stance.
Inside, new water-resistant, wipe-clean upholstery reflects the adventurous spirit of N-Trek buyers, who are more likely to return to their car after sporty activities outdoors in all weathers – so whatever the activity, trail running, mountain biking or just splashing about in muddy puddles with the kids, owners can jump into their N-Trek with less concern for the upholstery.
To complement the added robustness of the X-Trail’s five- or seven-seat interior, the N-Trek comes with rubber floor mats and a reversible boot-liner. Naturally, the X-Trail’s existing and optional wide range of accessories is also compatible, including tow-bars, roof bars, bike racks, and a cargo area organiser. This new model comes with various colour options, including two-tone, which seems to be making a comeback.
e-4ORCE & e-POWER
The addition of the N-Trek to the X-Trail line-up brings a new dimension of appeal to Nissan’s iconic family SUV. The model is exclusively available with Nissan’s pioneering e-POWER and e-4ORCE power-trains, which use a very efficient turbocharged three-cylinder, 1.5-litre engine with variable compression ratio technology to generate electricity and charge the car’s battery.
On the e-POWER two-wheel-drive variant, the battery powers a single motor connected to the front wheels, while the advanced e-4ORCE all-wheel drive power-train employs a motor at each axle. The e-4ORCE system can adjust power application 10,000 times per second according to the available grip, maximising traction on slippery surfaces, a vital feature in tricky off-road conditions.
The X-Trail’s e-POWER and e-4ORCE units deliver a smooth, seamless drive reminiscent of a pure electric vehicle, combined with the confidence to tackle challenging environments on or off-road, all without the need to recharge. Now, with the N-Trek’s purposeful and practical updates, the X-Trail is even better suited to doing battle with nature, no matter the conditions.
The brand motto for the X-Trail N-Trek sums it up: ‘Let’s Get Dirty’. The idea seems to be that the expression captures the spirit of a core group of potential off-roaders; folk who embrace adventure, the great outdoors and want to use their vehicle to enjoy time and adventures together. The X-Trail N-Trek has been designed for just that. It’s good looking too, thanks to unique N-Trek design details.
The Return Of NISMO
Some time back the legendary and prestigious Nissan, the GT-R, was withdrawn form the European market as the sports car was unable to meet emission standards. This writer had the chance to drive this car in standard form with its hand-built engine and it was, frankly, astonishing in its power and handling finesse. The NISMO variant even managed to improve on automotive perfection. It seems now that, in NISMO guise, this car could make a comeback thanks to electrification, thus achieving compliance. We’ll wait and see.
For now though it is confirmed that Nissan will premier a new and sporting NISMO version of its popular Ariya crossover. This car is fully-electric and, with its aerodynamic design, premium handling and a more dynamic suspension, the Ariya NISMO is engineered to bring thrill and precision to the roads. Delivering higher performance thanks to tuned vehicle dynamic control, in combination with high grip tyres, the Ariya NISMO is also equipped with a fine-tuned e-4ORCE system for better power and torque distribution to the all four wheels.
MHH International can offer a varied selection of fine current model Nissan X-Trail vehicles and other models including some with the e-4ORCE technology on board. See our website for more details and don’t hesitate to get in touch with your queries.