Test drive Nissan X-Trail: complete change
In its new revision, the classic SUV has become a modern symbiosis of an SUV and a crossover.
Times change, and with them the attitude of the audience. In its first two generations, the X-Trail has been a bridge between the brand's classic SUVs and increasingly popular SUV models, with its angular lines and outspoken, rugged character that clearly set it apart from its main market rivals. However, when developing the third generation of the model, the Japanese company took a completely new course - from now on, the model will face the difficult task of inheriting both the current X-Trail and the seven-seater Qashqai +2.
X-Trail inherits two models from this line at once. Nissan
The similarities between the X-Trail and Qashqai are not limited to design - the two models share a common technological platform, and the body of the older brother is increased by a total of 27 centimeters. The increased wheelbase and overall length of the X-Trail has a particularly favorable effect on rear space - in this regard, the car is among the champions in its category. Another big draw in favor of the X-Trail is the extremely flexible interior design - the possibilities for transforming "furniture" are unusually rich for a representative of this class and can easily compete with the performance of a van. For example, the rear seat can be moved horizontally by 26 cm, folded completely or into three separate parts, the middle of which can serve as a convenient armrest with holders for glasses and bottles, and even the front passenger seat can be folded down. when it is necessary to transport especially long objects. The nominal volume of the luggage compartment is 550 liters, which is to be expected and there are a number of practical solutions, such as a double bottom. The maximum load capacity reaches an impressive 1982 liters.
A significant improvement over its predecessor can be seen in the quality of the materials used inside the vehicle – while the X-Trail's interior ambiance has been strictly functional so far, it has become much nobler with the new model. The modern infotainment system is already familiar from the Qashqai, as is the rich array of assistance systems.
With front or dual gearbox
Road behavior strikes a good balance of pleasant driving and reasonably safe cornering behavior with relatively little body lean. Customers can choose between front- or dual-wheel drive, and it makes sense that the latter option is more recommended for anyone looking for optimal traction on slippery surfaces. Heavy off-road testing isn't quite to the taste of the X-Trail, but it's still worth noting that the model has two centimeters more ground clearance than the Qashqai. Two transmission alternatives are also available to customers - a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable X-Tronic.
Until next year, the engine range will be limited to one unit - a 1,6-liter diesel engine with 130 hp. power and maximum torque of 320 Nm. The engine handles a relatively heavy car much better than its paper specs suggest - traction is solid and performance is satisfying, albeit without sporting ambition. The only serious drawback of this drive is a slight weakness at the lowest revs, which becomes noticeable on steep climbs. On the other hand, the 1,6-liter engine scores valuable points with its modest fuel thirst. Those who want more power will have to wait until next year, when the X-Trail gets a 190-hp petrol turbo engine, a more powerful diesel version may appear at a later stage.
CONCLUSION
The new X-Trail is significantly different from its predecessors: angular design has given way to sportier forms, and in general, the model is now closer to modern crossovers than to classic SUV models. The X-Trail is a formidable competitor to models such as the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, with a huge variety of assisting systems and extremely functional interior space. However, having a wider selection of drives will help it perform even better.
Text: Bozhan Boshnakov
Photo: LAP.bg.
