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Next-generation Nissan X-Trail specifications revealed
Big digital displays and more tech herald the local reveal of the next-generation, mid-sized SUV, Nissan X-Trail.
Nissan has detailed the specification of the four-tier Australian range of its fourth-generation X-Trail, due later in 2022.
The look and performance is an evolution of the existing model, with the mid-sized SUV now riding on a new chassis, which it shares with the Mitsubishi Outlander that went on sale last year.
The adage, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” applies here: Nissan has sold more than 270,000 X-Trails in Australia since 2001. You don’t want to stray too far from that winning formula.
That said, Nissan will be competing against the hugely popular Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5. The sales race over the next 12 months will be fascinating, given it will likely come down to vehicle availability rather than overall market acceptance.
The interior update is the key to Nissan’s success and top-spec versions of the X-Trail pick up a 12.3-inch infotainment display and semi-autonomous “ProPilot” software.
Pricing will be announced closer to the vehicle’s local launch, but expect it to cost from $35,000 before on-road costs for the base two-wheel-drive version.
Safety gear across the range now includes autonomous emergency braking with cyclist and pedestrian detection, rear cross-traffic alert emergency lane-keeping, and blind-spot warning and intervention.
The 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine carries over, though outputs are marginally up to 135kW (a lift of 9kW) and 245Nm (up 19Nm).
Overseas models are available with a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol that cranks out 150kW of power and 305Nm, while also trimming fuel use by better than 0.7 litres over 100km.
Towing capacity with the 2.5-litre engine has risen by 500kg to a neat two-tonnes.
A continuously variable transmission continues as the only available Australian transmission.
The clever and versatile rear cargo storage has been retained on all but the base version, with Nissan claiming 16 different configurations for the dual-panelled floor.
Nissan has also adopted a stubby electronic gear shifter to free up space on the centre console, along with an electronic park brake.
The X-Trail’s revised all-wheel-drive system now includes Eco, Standard and Sport modes linked to five traction modes to suit conditions such as bitumen, dirt, ice and snow, backed by a hill-descent control switch.
In terms of dimensions, the new X-Trail is now wider and taller than the outgoing model, while being a fraction shorter than its predecessor.
The model line-up runs like this:
Nissan X-Trail ST
Default kit on the entry level X-Trail includes an eight-inch infotainment screen with Apple and Android smartphone connectivity, 17-inch alloy wheels and a rear parking camera and rear sensors.
The safety suits includes AEB, traffic sign recognition and cruise control.
Nissan X-Trail ST-L
This version adds Nissan’s “ProPilot” software including lane-keep assist and a 360-degree camera, along with 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, front parking sensors, split-fold rear seats with fore-aft adjustment and leather-look upholstery, privacy glass and fog lights.
Nissan X-Trail Ti
The leather gets more genuine in the Ti, the wheels lift another inch to 19s, and there’s a power-operated tailgate and three-way climate control, along with the obligatory sunroof at this price point.
The interior tech also earns a boost, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen with satnav, wireless phone charging, a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display and a head-up display.
Nissan X-Trail Ti-L
The flagship version adds full leather upholstery with memory seating, rear sunshades, a hands-free tailgate, 10-speaker Bose sound system and remote engine start.
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