Explore the newly relaunched Nissan X-Trail, a 7-seater SUV that aims to compete with established rivals like Skoda Kodiaq and Toyota Fortuner, offering a blend of design, performance, and features.

Nissan X-Trail: Design and Dimensions

The Nissan X-Trail is immediately identifiable as a Nissan SUV at first glance. Key design elements include Nissan’s V Motion front grille in chrome, angular split headlamps and tail-lamps, and a floating effect for the roof. Nissan's engineers have also made use of several aero elements, such as air curtains in the bumpers below the headlamps that help channel the air away from the tyres, and the active grille shutters in the lower air dam that open when cooling is needed.

Along the sides, there’s a prominent shoulder kink on the front and rear fenders, and the attractive 20-inch alloys – the largest in the class and a unique selling point (USP) for the X-Trail – fill the wheel arches well. At the rear, the upright tailgate houses the number plate, along with a chunky faux skid plate. Overall, the X-Trail is a handsome-looking SUV featuring sharp lines and an upright stance, blending aspects of both the boxy looks of earlier generations and the curvy design of its third-gen predecessor.

As for its dimensions, the Nissan X-Trail measures 4,680mm in length, 1,840mm in width, and 1,725mm in height, making it shorter and narrower, yet taller than the Skoda Kodiaq, its main competitor. The SUV has a 2,705mm wheelbase, boasts a generous 210mm ground clearance, and is equipped with 255/45 R20 tyres. Available in three striking colours – Diamond Black, Champagne Silver, and Pearl White – the X-Trail undoubtedly catches the eye.

Nissan X-Trail: Interior and Features

Stepping inside, the X-Trail features a neat and straightforward dashboard design that remains attractive. However, some may consider it slightly subdued for a vehicle in this segment. The material quality is commendable, with a good mix from leatherette to gloss-black trim.

A significant downside is the small, outdated 8.0-inch touchscreen, which feels inadequate compared to more modern contenders. The X-Trail does include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 360-degree camera, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone auto climate control, and a panoramic sunroof, apart from safety features like 7 airbags, traction control, and hill-start assist.

Despite being well-equipped, the X-Trail lacks numerous desirable features found in both its competitors and higher-spec variants overseas, including leather upholstery, powered front seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Nissan has hinted that future imports may offer better equipment levels.

There is ample storage space throughout the cabin, although the glove box could be larger. Notably, the X-Trail's three-row seating provides flexibility for passenger and cargo configurations. While front and second-row seating is plush, the challenge arises when accessing the third row, which proves cramped and best reserved for smaller passengers.

Nissan X-Trail: Powertrain and Driving Impressions

Under the hood, the Nissan X-Trail is powered by a 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder, turbo-petrol engine that produces 163hp and 300Nm of torque. Integrating fuel-saving 12V mild-hybrid technology and an innovative variable compression turbo, this powertrain sends power to the front wheels via a shift-by-wire, 8-step CVT automatic gearbox.

Despite the seemingly unexciting specs, the X-Trail's powertrain impresses in practice. It delivers smooth power across the rev range with three selectable drive modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport, adapting throttle and gearbox responses accordingly. The advanced CVT transmission is notable for its responsiveness and ability to mimic traditional gear shifts, making for a pleasurable driving experience.

Nissan X-Trail: Ride and Handling

Riding on stylish 20-inch alloys, the X-Trail surprises with its refined ride quality. It excels at absorbing bumps, often feeling mature and composed at highway speeds. Handling is predictable, maintaining good grip during cornering, although noticeable body roll is present. The braking system is robust, with disc brakes on all wheels providing commendable stopping power.

Nissan X-Trail: Price and Verdict

Pricing is crucial for Nissan as it prepares to introduce the X-Trail to the Indian market. With a starting price anticipated above Rs 45 lakh, it positions itself against the likes of the Skoda Kodiaq and Jeep Meridian, maintaining a competitive edge against more established players like the Toyota Fortuner.

In conclusion, the Nissan X-Trail offers a refined mix of quality, ride comfort, and performance, solidifying its position as a brand-builder for Nissan in India. Although it lacks certain segment features, it aims to remind consumers of what Nissan can provide in the midsize SUV market.