Unique hybrid system primes Nissan X-Trail to take on big-selling petrol-electric RAV4
NISSAN Australia has opened the order books for hybrid versions of its X-Trail medium SUV, with deliveries to commence in early 2023.
Sitting alongside the new fourth-generation X-Trail’s internal combustion engine offerings due to launch toward the end of 2022, the hybrid driveline will be offered as an option on upper-spec Ti and Ti-L grades – exclusively in all-wheel guise dubbed e-4orce.
Lower-spec X-Trails with the front-wheel drive e-Power hybrid powertrain will not be available in Australia.
Pricing is yet to be confirmed, but if hybrid versions of the new Nissan Qashqai or Toyota RAV4 are any guide, expect a premium of at least 10 per cent over the 4WD Ti and Ti-L petrol X-Trail variants, priced at $42,990 and $52,990 respectively, which would see the cost of a hybrid X-Trail start around the $55,000 mark.
The e-4orce hybrid system is claimed to deliver an EV-like drive feeling and comprises a high-output battery and electric powertrain integrated with a 150kW 1.5-litre variable compression ratio petrol engine, power generator, inverter and dual e-motor system with a total output of 157kW, promising swift 0-100km/h acceleration.
Front-drive e-Power X-Trails produce a total output of 150kW whereas the e-4orce adds a 94kW motor on the rear axle.
Nissan claims the e-4orce system has 10,000 times faster rear torque response than a mechanical all-wheel-drive system. In addition, the constant torque redistribution and improved weight balance are said to improve handling and ride comfort, as well as creating the ability to automatically adapt to different road surfaces and conditions.
Its combustion engine is used only to generate electricity, the wheels driven purely by the electric motor that, according to Nissan, results in an instant, EV-like, linear pedal response that creates an exhilarating high-torque feel and agile acceleration.
The set-up also allows the petrol engine to always run within its optimal range, which improves fuel economy in urban settings.
Like Nissan’s all-electric Leaf hatchback, the e-Power system also provides a one-pedal driving mode called e-Pedal Step, which is designed to take the repetitive strain out of stop-start urban driving.
Once engaged via a switch on the centre console, the e-Pedal Step will, when the driver takes their foot off the accelerator, brake the X-Trail at 0.2g – enough to illuminate the brake lights – and reduce the vehicle’s speed down to a “creeping” speed, but not a complete stop.
Fuel consumption is yet to be formally homologated, though Nissan’s testing suggests it will be 6.1L/100km, which is considerably more than the RAV4’s official combined fuel consumption of 4.7L/100km. Maximum braked towing capacirt is 1650kg.
The Ti and Ti-L X-Trail e-Power with e-4orce will make their Australian public debut closer to their showroom arrival and reflect the equipment levels of their petrol counterparts, but will only be available in five-seat configurations.
Nissan says at this stage, there are no supply or logistical issues affecting delivery from early 2023, with the parent company recognising the hybrid X-Trail’s potential in the Australian market.
Keyword: Hybrid Nissan X-Trail set for New Year arrival