Nissan X Trail delivers value

The recently launched face-lifted Nissan X-Trail represents quite a few firsts. With the Proton X70 eating up demand in its segment, non-national brands have to push their USPs harder, and these new X-Trail models have quite a few.

Their biggest claim to fame is the hybrid power-train. SUVs are known for being more thirsty than their sedan counterparts, so it’s certainly something some buyers might want to look at.

It’s good that Malaysians have two flavours of Nissan’s new SUV flagship. Those looking for a versatile and conventional vehicle have the 2.5-litre 4WD model, while those in the market for a more high-tech and comfortable SUV have the Hybrid.

Similarities

Key features on both models include:

Forward Collision Warning
Autonomous Emergency Braking
6 air bags*
High Beam Assist
Lane Departure Warning*
Blind-spot Warning*
Rear Cross Traffic Alert*
LED headlights with ‘Boomerang’ DRL*
17″ rims in dark finish*
*Available on lower tier X-Trail variants as well
[insert Nissan X trail engine pix]

Differences

Externally there’s the ‘HYBRID’ and ‘4WD’ badging that immediately identifies each model. Pop open the powered tailgate and there’s the next difference.

The 2.5L 4WD model comes with a third row of seats that can be folded down for more luggage space. The Hybrid gets a raised boot floor with a hidden compartment.

The 2nd row of seats on the 2.5L 4WD model are similar to the ones in the pre-facelift in that they are fitted on rails. Their slide and tilting functions make things easier for those in the last row and the railing makes the 2nd row seats a little higher and less ergonomic.

The Hybrid model’s rear seats are near perfect. They’re fixed, allowing no slide or tilt adjustments, but they’re almost twice as plush as the ones in the other X-Trail models.

They’re also better contoured, more comfortable and feature a much wider and better bolstered centre armrest. The Hybrid’s instrument cluster display has much more information.

Two different power-trains are sitting under the hood. Both are 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated petrol motors paired to X-Tronic CVTs, but that’s about as far as the similarities go.

The 2-litre Hybrid model’s set up is more complex with an electric motor, a dual-clutch system between that and the transmission and energy recovery systems.

Which is Better?

In terms of performance, they’re both good. The Hybrid accelerates more aggressively when pushed, and delivers great fuel savings.

The instant torque from the electric motor is good. Its biggest disadvantages are the strange brake pedal feel and the added complexity of the hybrid system.

The 2.5L 4WD is more capable of putting its power down from a standing start, as the power bias automatically moves to the rear wheels under acceleration. This advantage fades away within a second or two, once the Hybrid finds its footing.

The 2.5L model is better at highway cruising and has a natural brake pedal feel. Nissan’s MR and QR engines are quiet and smooth, so both cars score well in terms of NVH.

The 2.5L model’s disadvantages are that it’s naturally more thirsty and it does feel a little out of place in 2019. Still, some will appreciate its relative simplicity and pleasant cruising character.

Both cars are well equipped with advanced safety systems, 6 air bags and ‘intelligent trace control’ that make the X-Trail deliver in terms of value.

These twin flagships are made for two different customers. The Hybrid is aimed at a more modern, smaller family unit. The seats in the rear are plush while the Hybrid system appeals to the eco-conscious.

The 2.5L AWD is for the more traditional buyer with a larger family. The rear seats are serviceable for children and the proven engine is Nissan’s strongest advantage.

Nissan X-Trail Hybrid Specifications