Larger, comprehensively more modern Nissan X-Trail hits family SUV sweet spot

2023 Nissan X-Trail Review
2023 Nissan X-Trail Review
2023 Nissan X-Trail Review
2023 Nissan X-Trail Review
2023 Nissan X-Trail Review
2023 Nissan X-Trail Review
2023 Nissan X-Trail Review
2023 Nissan X-Trail Review
2023 Nissan X-Trail Review
2023 Nissan X-Trail Review
2023 Nissan X-Trail Review
2023 Nissan X-Trail Review
2023 Nissan X-Trail Review
2023 Nissan X-Trail Review
2023 Nissan X-Trail Review

We like

Hushed ride, sorted suspension, fluid driveline, clean HMI, spacious and comfortable seating, impressive safety score, cabin flexibility and wide-opening doors

Room for improvement

Unattractive engine note, roof-mounted rear centre seatbelt mount, some wind rustle, tyre thrum on larger diameter alloys, CVT can be slow to ‘kick down’

Overview

NISSAN really knows how to stretch out the product cycle of its vehicles, and the previously generation X-Trail was a prime example.

Launched in 2013, the T32-series X-Trail served longer than most within its segment, losing popularity over time to slip further from consumers’ minds, and further down the sales ladder.

But Nissan is confident its new-generation mid-size family hauler can turn all that around – and rightly so. The fourth-generation X-Trail is entirely new, slightly larger, and comprehensively more modern than the vehicle it replaces. It’s also more expensive.

Priced from $36,750 plus on-road costs for the base grade ST two-wheel drive five-seater, the least-expensive X-Trail is now $6000 dearer than the outgoing entry point to the range.

A seven-seat version of the same model will set you back $39,790 + ORC while at the other end of the scale, the new range topping Ti-L AWD five-seater is pitched at $52,990 + ORC, a cool $6875 on top of the previous Ti 2.5 flagship.

Between those two are the ST-L in 2WD and AWD at $43,190 and $46,290 respectively, the latter a seven-seater. A step up the range takes us to the penultimate Ti AWD five-seater at $49,990. All prices before on-road costs. Full specification and pricing details are available here.

Offsetting the price hikes somewhat is additional equipment as standard across the range and an impressive ANCAP safety rating. All X-Trail variants include auto emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection, rear AEB with pedestrian detection and cross-traffic alert, lane departure prevention and adaptive cruise control.

Soon, the X-Trail will also be offered with a hybridised driveline featuring an efficient motor-generator system combined with a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine that provides energy to a small battery, which directly feeds a 140kW/330Nm electric traction motor driving the front wheels.

It’s just part of the flexibility the fourth-generation X-Trail’s new CMF-C/D platform – which it shares with the smaller Qashqai, Mitsubishi Outlander and Renault Austral – and is something we’re likely to see in local showrooms from next year.

For now, however, the X-Trail range features a revised 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that delivers a 9kW lift in power and an 18Nm increase in torque (to 135kW and 244Nm) when viewed against its predecessor.

All variants are paired exclusively to Nissan’s X-Tronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) with the optional multi-mode all-wheel-drive system offering driver-selectable Eco, Standard and Sport modes linked to five bespoke traction modes and algorithms to suit conditions such as bitumen, dirt, ice and snow.

Towing capacity jumps 500kg to a useful 2000kg.

Nissan’s new X-Trail competes in the bustling sub-$60K medium SUV segment against a strong field of rivals including the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5, Mitsubishi Outlander, Skoda Kodiaq, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4 and Volkswagen Tiguan.

Driving Impressions

The X-Trail had a bit of catching up to do in levelling the best in this segment. After all, there are some excellent mid-size SUVs on the market, and many that are a whole lot newer than Nissan’s outgoing contender.

Of course, that has now changed, and the new model is now as good – or better – than most of its segment contemporaries.

It might not be the most advanced vehicle on the market and it may not offer the latest driveline technology. But it does the ‘family friendly’ side of SUV ownership very well and is a vehicle we believe ticks a lot of boxes for its price.

There’s a thoughtfulness to the X-Trail’s design that nails the family brief. Wide-opening doors, flexible cargo and seating arrangements, dozens of storage cubbies and cup holders, kid-friendly seat anchorages and charging ports, and a safety rating that resets the mould for vehicles in this class, particularly when looking at ANCAP’s child occupant protection criteria.

Beyond that, the X-Trail offers comfortable seating with space for four adult passengers, or the driver and up to sixkids. The third row of seating is tight but will get you out of a pickle during the school run and is far easier to get in and out of than many in this class, with access from either rear door.

It’s also an adult-friendly SUV that is easy to operate and interact with. Trying to concentrate with traffic, kids, dogs, to-do lists and so on means there’s precious little time to wrap your head around a complex and complicated HMI (human-machine interface).

Fortunately, the X-Trail’s interface is straightforward and entirely logical. You don’t have to go digging through menus to access what it is you’re looking for. The menu system is user-friendly, and the screens are large enough to read at a glance.

That doesn’t mean the X-Trail’s technology offerings are basic. Beyond the infotainment array and digital dash (in higher grades), the level of driver assistance and safety aids are cooperative and vigilant.

Nissan’s ProPilot active safety and driver assist tech suite covers all the bases you’d expect, providing a friendly safety net that works with you as you drive, instead of being another unwanted distraction. Against ANCAP’s test criteria, the Nissan X-Trail scored one of the highest safety assist results on record at 97 per cent.

On the road, the X-Trail feels competent, if a little uninspiring. The carryover engine is acoustically unattractive, particularly when pushed, and delivers solid but not sparkling performance. In everyday situations, however, the driveline is impressively fluid.

Step-off acceleration is impressive, as is the response to throttle when pulling away from corners (roll-on acceleration).

But we did notice that the CVT can be slow to respond when heavier throttle inputs are required, such as when overtaking.

Likely this is a result of the vehicle being economically tuned; even at the hands of journos and in hilly terrain the variants we sampled average out at 8.4 litres per 100km (official combined consumption figures are 7.4L/100km for 2WD variants and 7.8L/100km for those with AWD.

The X-Trail offers an impressively sorted ride/handling blend that irons out most surface imperfections – including sharp-edged speed humps and potholes. Thankfully, there is also little degradation of ride when choosing larger diameter wheels, a trait many of the X-Trail’s competitors have failed to master.

Compared to its twin-under-the-skin Mitsubishi Outlander, the Nissan X-Trail also offers more accurate steering that feels far better suited to urban driving. There’s less wheel twirling when parking, and a connected feeling with the car at higher speeds we feel has most bases covered.

Like the Outlander, the X-Trail offers confident braking and a clean pedal action. The level of assistance offered is just right for the job, too, which should give drivers who may consider the X-Trail “too big” the extra confidence they need while acclimatising to the car.

In terms of noise isolation, the X-Trail ranks very well. There is little in the way of mechanical noise (unless under heavy acceleration) and road hum is well attenuated.

We did, however, note a little wind rustle off the wing mirrors when travelling at freeway speeds and found the tyre thrum from the larger wheels fitted to Ti and Ti-L grades was evident, but not a deal breaker by any stretch.

And that perhaps sums the X-Trail up very well. It mightn’t be the most exhilarating drive or offer the most dazzling cut-through technology, but it is completely inoffensive, entirely sensible and offers what we’d consider to be exceptionally good value for money.

Live with the car and we’re certain you’ll appreciate the level of thought that’s gone into making it the best Nissan X-Trail we’ve yet to sample – and perhaps one of the most suitable, family-focused vehicles in its class.

Keyword: 2023 Nissan X-Trail Review

CAR'S NEWS RELATED

Made-in-India Nissan Magnite AMT launched in South Africa

Nissan offers three variants of the Magnite AMT in South Africa: Visia, Acenta and Acenta Plus, priced from R234,900. Nissan has launched the Magnite AMT in South Africa. The crossover will be manufactured at the brand’s Oragadam factory near Chennai. Nissan offers three variants of the Magnite AMT in ...

View more: Made-in-India Nissan Magnite AMT launched in South Africa

Next-Gen Nissan Juke And Qashqai EVs To Be Made In The UK: Report

UK media claim Nissan will announce on Friday that its Sunderland plant will make future all-electric Juke and Qashqai SUVs.

View more: Next-Gen Nissan Juke And Qashqai EVs To Be Made In The UK: Report

Automatic crossovers competing against the new Nissan Magnite EZ-Shift

What’s available The competitors Renault Kiger 1.0 Zen auto Suzuki Ignis 1.2 GLX auto Suzuki Fronx 1.5 GL auto Chery Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5 LiT auto The most affordable automatic crossovers from other brands Kia Sonet 1.5 LX auto Toyota Urban Cruiser 1.5 XR auto Haval Jolion 1.5T Premium ...

View more: Automatic crossovers competing against the new Nissan Magnite EZ-Shift

Nissan to build electric versions of two best-selling crossovers, the Juke and Qashqai

Nissan plans to build electric versions for two of its best-selling crossovers in the UK. According to a new report, Nissan will build an electric Juke and Qashqai at its Sunderland factory. The report from Sky News Wednesday claims Nissan will announce the new electric crossovers on Friday. Citing ...

View more: Nissan to build electric versions of two best-selling crossovers, the Juke and Qashqai

Researchers are recycling old Nissan Leaf batteries using… bacteria?

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland are investigating a method to recover the metallic content of batteries with engineered bacteria. The new method involves processing spent Nissan Leaf batteries into a “leachate” — a liquified battery slurry — and combining that slurry with said microbes. The method ...

View more: Researchers are recycling old Nissan Leaf batteries using… bacteria?

Honda and Nissan slash rates to keep pace with BYD, EVs in overseas markets

Japanese automakers are scrambling to avoid being squeezed out of the market by BYD and other Chinese EVs. Honda and Nissan are the latest to slash rates in overseas markets to boost demand. It’s no secret that Japanese automakers are some of the biggest laggards as the industry transitions ...

View more: Honda and Nissan slash rates to keep pace with BYD, EVs in overseas markets

List of museums & factory tours every petrolhead must go to

Here’s a list of 13 museums every auto enthusiast must visit. BHPian JDMBOI recently shared this with other enthusiasts. Here is a list of museums & factory tours every petrol-head must go to, so fasten your seat belt and grab some drink because it’s going to be a long ...

View more: List of museums & factory tours every petrolhead must go to

Most affordable crossover from every brand in South Africa

A dominant force Alfa Romeo Tonale Audi Q2 BAIC Beijing X55 BMW X2 BYD Atto 3 Chery Tiggo 4 Pro Citroen C3 Fiat 500X Ford Puma Haval Jolion Honda WR-V Hyundai Venue Jaguar E-Pace Jeep Renegade Kia Sonet Mahindra XUV300 Lexus UX Maserati Grecale Mazda CX-3 Mercedes-Benz GLA MINI ...

View more: Most affordable crossover from every brand in South Africa

Tesla, Audi, And Nissan EVs Have Minimal Winter Range Loss

R400,000 single cabs competing with the new Mahindra Pik Up Karoo

Throwback Thursday: The BenSopra Nardó Special 380SX

Nissan Magnite AMT Becomes Most Affordable Auto SUV in SA

New Nissan Magnite EZ-Shift now on sale – The most affordable two-pedal SUV in South Africa

Nissan wants to build a Ford Ranger Raptor rival

Nissan's $250 Nismo Pajamas Will Help You Catch More Zzzs

This 1998 Nissan Stagea 260RS Autech Is The Skyline GT-R Station Wagon That Nissan Refused To Build

The Nissan Stagea 260RS Autech Version Is A Skyline GT-R Wagon

Nissan Magnite AMT introductory pricing extended till Nov 30

R530,000 SUVs that rival the new Chery Tiggo 7 Pro Max

Throwback Thursday: The Liberty Walk R35

OTHER CAR NEWS

; Top List in the World https://www.pinterest.com/newstopcar/pins/
Top Best Sushi Restaurants in SeoulTop Best Caribbean HoneymoonsTop Most Beautiful Islands in PeruTop Best Outdoor Grill BrandsTop Best Global Seafood RestaurantsTop Foods to Boost Your Immune SystemTop Best Foods to Fight HemorrhoidsTop Foods That Pack More Potassium Than a BananaTop Best Healthy Foods to Gain Weight FastTop Best Cosmetic Brands in the U.STop Best Destinations for Food Lovers in EuropeTop Best Foods High in Vitamin ATop Best Foods to Lower Your Blood SugarTop Best Things to Do in LouisianaTop Best Cities to Visit in New YorkTop Best Makeup Addresses In PennsylvaniaTop Reasons to Visit NorwayTop Most Beautiful Islands In The WorldTop Best Law Universities in the WorldTop Richest Sportsmen In The WorldTop Biggest Aquariums In The WorldTop Best Peruvian Restaurants In MiamiTop Best Road Trips From MiamiTop Best Places to Visit in MarylandTop Best Places to Visit in North CarolinaTop Best Electric Cars For KidsTop Best Swedish Brands in The USTop Best Skincare Brands in AmericaTop Best American Lipstick BrandsTop Michelin-starred Restaurants in MiamiTop Best Secluded Getaways From MiamiTop Best Things To Do On A Rainy Day In MiamiTop Most Instagrammable Places In MiamiTop Interesting Facts about FlorenceTop Facts About The First Roman Emperor - AugustusTop Best Japanese FoodsTop Most Beautiful Historical Sites in IsraelTop Best Places To Visit In Holy SeeTop Best Hawaiian IslandsTop Reasons to Visit PortugalTop Best Hotels In L.A. With Free Wi-FiTop Best Scenic Drives in MiamiTop Best Vegan Restaurants in BerlinTop Most Interesting Attractions In WalesTop Health Benefits of a Vegan DietTop Best Thai Restaurant in Las VegasTop Most Beautiful Forests in SwitzerlandTop Best Global Universities in GermanyTop Most Beautiful Lakes in GuyanaTop Best Things To Do in IdahoTop Things to Know Before Traveling to North MacedoniaTop Best German Sunglasses BrandsTop Highest Mountains In FranceTop Biggest Hydroelectric Plants in AmericaTop Best Spa Hotels in NYCTop The World's Scariest BridgeTop Largest Hotels In AmericaTop Most Famous Festivals in JordanTop Best European Restaurants in MunichTop Best Japanese Hiking Boot BrandsTop Best Universities in PolandTop Best Tips for Surfing the Web Safely and AnonymouslyTop Most Valuable Football Clubs in EuropeTop Highest Mountains In ColombiaTop Real-Life Characters of Texas RisingTop Best Beaches in GuatelamaTop Things About DR Congo You Should KnowTop Best Korean Reality & Variety ShowsTop Best RockstarsTop Most Beautiful Waterfalls in GermanyTop Best Fountain Pen Ink BrandsTop Best European Restaurants in ChicagoTop Best Fighter Jets in the WorldTop Best Three-Wheel MotorcyclesTop Most Beautiful Lakes in ManitobaTop Best Dive Sites in VenezuelaTop Best Websites For Art StudentsTop Best Japanese Instant Noodle BrandsTop Best Comedy Manhwa (Webtoons)Top Best Japanese Sunglasses BrandsTop Most Expensive Air Jordan SneakersTop Health Benefits of CucumberTop Famous Universities in SwedenTop Most Popular Films Starring Jo Jung-sukTop Interesting Facts about CougarsTop Best Hospitals for Hip Replacement in the USATop Most Expensive DefendersTop Health Benefits of GooseberriesTop Health Benefits of ParsnipsTop Best Foods and Drinks in LondonTop Health Benefits of Rosehip TeaTop Best Air Fryers for Low-fat CookingTop Most Asked Teacher Interview Questions with AnswersTop Best Shopping Malls in ZurichTop The Most Beautiful Botanical Gardens In L.A.Top Best Mexican Restaurants in Miami for Carb-loading rightTop Best Energy Companies in GermanyTop Best Garage HeatersTop Largest Banks in IrelandTop Leading Provider - Audit and Assurance In The USTop Best Jewelry Brands in IndiaTop Prettiest Streets in the UKTop Best Lakes to Visit in TunisiaTop Highest Mountains in Israel