Nissan X-trail
United States reveal for new X-trail
The new Nissan Rogue SUV – known in South Africa as the X-trail – was recently revealed in the United States and the Japanese manufacturer maintains the design of the newcomer, both exterior and interior, reflects the spirit of the vehicle – versatile, fun, edgy, adventurous, and always rogue.
Introduced just ahead of the new all-electric Ariya, the new Rogue (X-trail) is based on the new Alliance CMF-CD platform and retains signature Nissan design elements such as the floating roof and an evolved, powerful V-motion grille. Interesting new features include a unique shape for the multi-level LED headlights, LED fog lights on higher grades, and “U-shape” bodyside highlights.
Despite its seemingly larger shape, the body of the new X-trail (T33) is 38 mm shorter than the previous third generation model, and it is also 5 mm lower. Key aerodynamic features include “3D” tyre deflectors in the lower front fascia, an active grille shutter, an underbody covers to manage air flow under the vehicle and a unique “air curtain” to direct air flow from the front to the sides. It will also for the first time be available with two-tone exterior colour combinations.
“Family Hub”
Nissan states the interior of the new X-trail is a true “family hub”, designed to provide comfort and utility for everyone. Access with the Nissan Intelligent Key has been expanded to the rear doors and they can open nearly 90 degrees, making it easier to get a child-seat in or out. The “butterfly” opening front centre console allows for easy access to the second row.
The digital display integration of the new X-trail features three high-tech displays – a fullcolour head-up display, a “digital dashboard” cluster, and a large, floating touchscreen display. It also come equipped with a classexclusive Tri-zone Climate Control, and the rear load bay is now accessible through a motion-activated tailgate. A redesigned Dividen-hide system provides hidden and secure storage for essential gear.
It also features Nissan Safety Shield 360, with a wide array of safety technologies (including ten airbags in the top models), standard across the range. Intelligent Cruise Control is included as part of the available PROPILOT Assist system and navigation via Google Maps and Waze, and wireless connectivity via Apple Carplay is also offered.
According to Nissan the driving experience of the X-trail is enhanced by a new Vehicle Motion Control system, working in conjunction with the Intelligent All-wheel Drive system and Drive Mode Selector to provide individual wheel control. Three drive modes – Sport, Standard, and Eco – are available for frontwheel-drive models, and five (including Off-road and Snow) for AWD models.
New engine
In the United States, the QR25DE engine used in the previous two generations (also locally) has been replaced with a new PR25DD directinjection 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine offering 135 kw and 245 Nm of torque (up from 126 kw and 237 Nm), again paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
Details for the South African models are still to be released, but the 2.5-litre petrol model (as currently available) as well as a turbodiesel derivative may be on the cards, and possibly a hybrid model later on, as part of the electrification strategy of Nissan – with all the engine choices coupled to a CVT.
The new X-trail will be available in the United States (as the Rogue) from next month but its European launch is expected early next year. Timing for South Africa is unclear but local introduction will probably only be late in 2021.