Nissan X-Trail review
By Motor Match • 25/10/2023
The Nissan X-Trail, the largest SUV in Nissan's range is back! The third generation has been released - here's what we think!
What is it?
Nissan’s line-up and sales are dominated by two main models – the Qashqai and Juke. Because of their huge popularity, it can make its other models feel a little lost, but actually, there are some gems in its range that shouldn’t be forgotten.
One of these is the X-Trail, which is the largest SUV that Nissan sells in Europe and is the only car available from the firm that you can get with seven seats. Now back for a third generation, it brings more technology and a new hybrid powertrain, but is it any good?
What’s new?
Nissan has been somewhat of a pioneer when it comes to electric cars, but until recently, it hadn’t dabbled in other emissions-reducing technologies.
The X-Trail helps form the next part of its strategy, with this SUV being available as standard with various electrified powertrains. Still, the highlight is Nissan’s bespoke e-Power hybrid setup that aims to replicate the driving experience of an EV.
What’s under the bonnet?
There are no diesel versions of the Nissan X-Trail available these days, and instead, there’s a choice of hybrids. All models feature an automatic gearbox too.
Kicking things off is a 161bhp 1.3-litre mild-hybrid, but it’s the e-Power model that is expected to be the most popular. Featuring a 1.5-litre petrol engine with twin electric motors that directly drive the wheels, our car is four-wheel-drive, though a front-wheel-drive model is available.
It puts out 210bhp, allowing for a 0-60mph time of seven seconds. In terms of fuel economy, Nissan claims 42.2mpg and 152g/km CO2 emissions, though the two-wheel-drive will be more efficient.
What’s it like to drive?
The X-Trail is firmly targeted at the family market, and it nails all the areas that matter in this respect. It’s particularly refined and comfortable, even on our test car’s larger 19-inch alloy wheels.
The hybrid system works well too, and feels smoother than many of its hybrid SUV rivals that are noisier and jerkier, such as the Toyota RAV4. There’s not really any lag, and performance is fairly brisk as well. Though the e-4orce four-wheel-drive system isn’t decided for extreme off-roading, it’s surprisingly capable on muddier surfaces and helps to appeal to those living in more secluded areas.
How does it look?
Nissan has successfully injected some extra appeal into this latest X-Trail. The overall look isn’t massively different to its predecessor, but the toned-down chrome means it doesn’t appear quite so brash. There’s the trademark V-shaped grille that all Nissan SUVs have, while the split headlights look great too.
The X-Trail looks purposeful and rugged too, with silver underbody areas and chunky plastic cladding really making it look the part. Regardless of version, all feature smart alloy wheels too.
What’s it like inside?
Nissan has really stepped up the interior finish on this latest X-Trail, especially in the case of the higher-spec models. Previously it felt a bit cheap and cluttered, but this new car is a vast improvement, with our model using a 12.3-inch widescreen touchscreen, as well as brown dashboard elements.
There’s plenty of space on offer too. Unlike some of its rivals, the X-Trail doesn’t come with seven seats as standard, rather a third row is a £1,000 extra. They’re not the roomiest but even if you occasionally need to carry extra passengers, they’re worth having. But treat the X-Trail as a large five-seater and it offers loads of space, and is certainly a step up from the Qashqai.
What’s the spec like?
All X-Trails come by and large with plenty of equipment, including LED headlights and adaptive cruise control, though we’d skip the entry-level Visia as it doesn’t get a touchscreen. That comes with the Acenta, however, along with a reversing camera and keyless entry.
The mid-range N-Connecta gains a 360-degree camera, a large 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital dials of the same size, while the Tekna brings a head-up display and electric boot. At the top of the range, the Tekna+ comes with 20-inch alloy wheels, a Bose sound system and quilted leather seats.
Verdict
The X-Trail feels like a particularly complete SUV, and arguably the best model that Nissan makes. This latest model feels a big step up in terms of quality, while the e-Power hybrid system is a great addition.
Combined with its reputation for value, spaciousness and ruggedness, this is a family SUV that deserves to be high up on any shortlist.
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