X-Trail is a likeable crossover
NISSAN’S latest X-Trail is more a replacement for the previous Qashqai+2 than for the former model of the same name.
For a start, it looks almost identical to the Qashqai from a distance, even though it’s actually larger in every direction when close to.
It’s a hugely likeable crossover which was only available with the Renaultsourced 1.6 dCi 130bhp engine at launch.
There is now a 2.0-litre with 177bhp, but I drove the 1.6, which is already proving the biggest seller.
As with other crossovers from most makers now, many models are two-wheel drive but I drove the four-wheeldrive range-topping Tekna, which has the option of seven seats for those who need them.
The smooth and reasonably quiet engine drives the front wheels the majority of the time, only bringing the rears into play when sensors detect loss of traction.
But in heavy weight mud-plugger tradition, it also has a centre differential lock to give maximum traction when needed in ice, snow or off-road.
I managed just under a real 40mpg without trying too hard, so with careful driving the low 40s should be quite easily attainable.
Big, comfortable seats have loads of adjustment and there is plenty of legroom in the back. But the two seats in the boot, which lift up out of a flat floor, are only suitable for children.
All the models in the range seem well-equipped, but of course, I was driving the range-topper, and so it came with all the bells and whistles, including heated electric leather seats, keyless entry and starting, cruise control, powered hatch, parking sensors and a rear camera, remote controls on the steering wheel and a very good DAB stereo.
All in all, the X-Trail is a fine family 4x4, but despite probably having pretty good off-road ability, most will never go anywhere near the flattest of fields.
The Nissan X-Trail 1.6 dCi Tekna costs £32,200.