Nissan’s X-Trail SUV has truly gone to the dogs
Four-legged family members are the priority for new Nissan SUV concept.
Nissan’s British division has created what it reckons is the ultimate dog-friendly SUV.
Based on the family-sized X-Trail, the 4Dogs concept has a boot that’s been transformed to provide a bespoke travel space for two animals.
It’s not just about the drive. The 4Dogs has equipment to keep canines clean and comfortable after long walks. Owners can wash them off with the 360-degree pull-out shower, then swap to the dog dryer which delivers a jet of air to wet fur.
There’s a slide-away ramp so dogs can walk up into the boot, which allows owners to stay completely mud-free. An integrated drying system can supply warm air into the boot space.
The dogs can settle down into the luxurious bed, help themselves to a drink from the nospill water bowl or take a snack from the smart dog treat dispenser. Safety in transit is taken care via a clip-on harness hook.
Driver and front seat passenger can easily keep an eye on their pets using "dog-cam" technology. Owner and dog can see each other via the seven-inch dashboard display and a new 10-inch LCD screen installed in the boot. The owner can also talk
reports.
to the dog via an audio link.
Attachments for the shower and dryer are stored in a pull-out utility drawer, easily accessible at the front of the boot.
New side compartments have been added to ensure the area remains clutter-free, and can be used for storing treats, waste bags and a lead. The X-Trail 4Dogs also features a dog guard above the rear seats – a Nissan accessory already available.
Finally, the whole boot has been upholstered in premium wipe-clean leather so any stray dirt or pet hair can easily be cleaned or removed.
Nissan engineered the X-Trail 4Dogs concept following a survey of more than 1300 dog owners. It was carried out by The Kennel Club, the UK’s largest and bestknown organisation for promoting dog health and welfare.
Research revealed that 99.9 per cent of owners consider their pet to be part of the family. A similar number (98.7 per cent) use their cars to transport their dogs.
Almost 90 per cent would buy a car that boasts dog-friendly features and 88.7 per cent transport their dog in a car at least once a week
Over 90 per cent transport their dogs in the car for journeys that last 10 minutes or more and over half (54.7 per cent) would like their vehicles to be more easily accessible for their dogs.
The 4Dogs canine bed, water bowl and treat dispenser can all be removed to create a usable load space when the dog is not with the family. The car’s spare wheel is also still accessible.