The new Nissan X-Trail bends style, performance, technology, and practicality

The Nissan X-Trail is a cherished family SUV in South Africa that flaunts striking aesthetics, robust capabilities, and state-of-the-art features. With constant improvements from the Japanese automaker, it has now entered its fourth generation, incorporating several enhancements that enhance its visual appeal and interior desirability.

Improving the 2023 Nissan X-Trail’s exterior looks are a V-motion grille, LED headlights, boomerang-shaped daytime running lights, and an aerodynamic bumper. The dynamic side profile features 17 or 18-inch alloy wheels (depending on the trim level), LED taillights, a roof spoiler, a shark fin antenna, and a chrome-finished dual exhaust system.

Nissan offers five- and seven-seat layouts. Inside, the 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system (flagship model) is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is customisable, while a 10.8-inch head-up display provides vital information to minimise the chances of distracted driving. The cabin boasts leather-accented materials, an electrically adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support, heated front seats, and flexible second and third-row seating configurations. Besides, various storage compartments, cup holders, and USB ports are available for your convenience.

The power comes from a 2.5-litre petrol engine that pumps out 135 kW and 244 Nm of torque. The mill pairs with either a six-speed manual (base model) or an electronically-controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that offers smooth acceleration. The SUV features front-wheel drive (AWD is available) and a selectable four-wheel drive mode for enhanced stability and traction. Nissan claims a fuel economy rating of 8.3 L/100 km (combined). You can wait for the e-Power hybrid X-Trail if that doesn't satisfy you. It is slated for a 2024 release in South Africa, featuring a 1.5-litre petrol engine, a battery pack, and an electric motor, generating instant torque and reduced fuel consumption, emissions, noise, and vibration. A diesel variant with 5.3 L/100 km fuel economy is also available for South African customers.

If you floor the pedal, the new X-Trail can achieve a maximum speed of 190 km/h (petrol) and 180 km/h (e-Power hybrid).

The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system for 4WD Acenta Plus integrates with the NissanConnect app for remote access to functions like door locks, engine control, fuel level, and tyre pressure.

The all-new X-Trail comes equipped with the ProPILOT+ suite comprising adaptive cruise control, lane keep/ change assist, and traffic jam assist. Intelligent emergency braking, pedestrian/cyclist detection, rear emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind spot intervention, lane departure warning, lane intervention, rear cross-traffic alert, high beam assist, and hill start assist are also standard affairs. Besides, six airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and an immobilizer system enhance passenger protection.

Boasting 585 litres of boot space in the five-seat versions and 485 litres in the seven-seat variants, you can expand it to 1,396 litres by folding down the second and third-row seats. The second-row seat features a 40/20/40 split, and the third-row has a 50/50 split, offering flexibility in cargo space. With a flat floor and low-loading lip, you can load items easily. Storage compartments, cup holders, and USB ports are conveniently placed throughout the cabin, including a cooling glove box and door pockets with bottle holders. The towing capacity is up to 1,500 kg with a braked trailer and 750 kg with an unbraked trailer, complemented by a 100 kg roof rail system. Its 210 mm ground clearance and 19-degree approach angle enable it to tackle rough terrains.

The entry-level 2023 Nissan X-Trail costs R649,900, the 2WD Acenta goes for R709,900, while the top-of-the-line Acenta sets you back at R759,900. These prices include a 3-year/90,000 km service plan and a 6-year/150,000 km warranty. Contact your local Nissan dealership to learn more or schedule a test drive. (Prices correct at time of publication.)

Are you a big fan of cars? If you love knowing about the changes and updates to vehicle models, visit the MotorHappy Blog to read our reviews of the latest cars to hit South Africa’s roads.

Imagery was sourced from www.nissan.co.za