Due for launch as we write is the new Nissan X-Trail, with cleaner styling modelled very much on that of the larger Pathfinder, plus a whole lot of practical touches to make it more appealing.
A hugely important car for Nissan, the X-Trail will be built at nine different manufacturing sites around the world for a vast array of markets, with other market versions also to come.
The new styled X-Trail retains a number of signature cues from the old model, such as the “boomerang” rear lights, structured headlights with LED daytime running lamps, and the characteristic D-pillar shape. LED headlights – for both high and low beams – are standard on high grade models, as are19 inch alloy wheels.
Inside, premium features include chrome, geometric metallic and piano black finishes. Options include cloth fabric covering plus full leather with contrasting stitch accents. The spacious interior has theatre-style seating and the option of two extra seats to make room for seven inside.
Practical touches include rear side doors that open to almost 80 degrees – far wider than normal – to allow not just easy access, but also to ease the loading and unloading of a child’s safety seat. Middle row seat comfort has been improved thanks to extra knee room generated by the longer wheelbase and the new front seats having more heavily sculpted seat backs.
The middle row seats recline and slide while, where fitted, the third row folds forward to increase luggage space.
Helpful touches include, for example, a large between-the-seats console box. The box itself is large enough to take an iPad or 10 inch tablet.
The versatility pioneered in the previous model goes further in new X-Trail thanks to a smart and innovative double load floor providing flexible storage options. The cargo area can be portioned into upper and lower areas in a simple single-handed move. In its top most position, the board can hold up to 10kg of luggage, or 75kg in its lower position. This split cargo solution enables the user to store, for example, a pushchair and large items below, while creating a fully usable upper load surface for smaller, lighter items.
In addition, access to the luggage area has also been made as easy as possible with remote operation of the power tailgate.
Fully connected, X-Trail is the first model to benefit from the latest generation NissanConnect in-car navigation, information and entertainment system. Drivers will also benefit from a comprehensive suite of assistance features that make up the X-Trail’s Nissan Safety Shield system.
In its latest form, NissanConnect has evolved to offer Smartphone connectivity, with a large, 7-inch colour touch screen.
The latest generation satellite navigation integrates with Google will reveal a host of useful information from weather forecasts to the location of fuel stations, hotels, restaurants and many other points of interest.
The send-to-car function also allows drivers to plan a trip at home and send it to their in-car NissanConnect system at the click of a button. The system includes Bluetooth audio streaming and mobile phone integration as well as aux-in and USB slots.
In addition to mobile phone integration, the system also includes Bluetooth audio streaming. The driver also benefits from one of the most advanced meter displays yet seen, with five inch TFT colour display incorporating no fewer than 12 graphic displays accessible on rotation offering advice and warnings covering such things as average and actual speeds, navigation turn-by-turn instructions, audio content, traffic sign recognition, eco driving advice and torque distribution settings in 4WD mode.
In keeping with the previous generation model, the new X-Trail adopts Nissan’s electronic 4WD system, All Mode 4x4i. Controlled via a rotary switch on the centre console, it offers a choice between two-wheel drive, Auto mode or Lock offering permanent four-wheel drive.
In the “default” Auto mode, the system constantly monitors throttle opening, engine speed and torque to anticipate wheel spin and to distribute torque between front and rear axles as needed, at speeds of up to 80 km/h.
Above that speed, the system reacts to wheel spin, again shifting drive rearwards to restore traction as required. For tricky conditions and at low speeds, Lock gives new X-Trail permanent 4WD, while drivers also have the option of a 2WD only version.
Four other electronic systems are included: two are world firsts and a third is currently found on the premium Infiniti M.
The two world firsts are Active Ride Control and Active Engine Brake. Active Ride Control monitors the road surface to detect undulations which could potentially upset the pitch of the car body and alters the damping to compensate. Active Engine Brake, meanwhile, harnesses the power and controllability of the Xtronic transmission to add a degree of engine braking while cornering or when decelerating to a standstill. The benefits are greater braking control and enhanced feel with less pedal effort.
The third system, pioneered in the premium segment, is Active Trace Control. By using on-board sensors to monitor speed, steering angle, throttle opening and braking effort, Active Trace Control brakes wheels individually, as required, to reduce understeer and help the driver steer a safer path through bends: it is particularly effective on slippery, wet roads.
Finally new X-Trail benefits from Uphill Start Support and Advance Hill Descent Control.
Lower fuel consumption has been achieved by reducing weight wherever possible, even though the new X-Trail has a larger surface area than the previous model. The tailgate, for example, is largely plastic, saving 7Kg.
A great deal of attention has been paid to the car’s aerodynamics with carefully shaped door mirrors, and even a spoiler that covers the exhaust box and rear panel.
By reducing power sapping friction in its drivetrains, new X-Trail provides excellent performance from the latest generation of downsized engines, providing the pace of a bigger powerplant with the economy and emissions of a smaller one.
Further details in our next issue.
