What they said when the Nissan X-Trail was new... (2001)
NISSAN has taken a long time to catch up with rivals, but now it has a good chance of overtaking them in the Sports Utility Market.
The makers of the pugnacious Patrol have developed the soft-road X-Trail, and while it does not have the mud plugging potential of its big stablemate it is much more civilised than the Terrano.
Outwardly and inwardly the X-Trail is very modern in appearance and it also has one of the simplest all-wheel-drive systems with a switch-operated drive transmission selection system.
There are six versions of the X-Trail, three each with 138bhp 2.0 petrol or 112bhp 2.2 litre turbo diesel engines, and I tested the mid-range £19,000 2.2Di Sport. The Sport model has six air bags, cloth seats, single disc CD player while the £1,245 cheaper entry level S versions only get a radio and twin front airbags. The SE+ costs £20,900 and is the leather-trimmed version with six airbags, multi-disc player, heated mirrors and £750 optional traction control.
The turbo-diesel engine is capable of getting the X-Trail to over 100 mph and it covers the 0-60mph dash in a little under 12.5 seconds but its greatest achievement is the 40mpg it returns, thanks to its six-speed gearbox. It’s a flexible and willing engine but not particularly quiet for a modern diesel unit and its noise levels when pushed detracted from the refinement behind the wheel.
Gearchanges, steering and brakes are all good, and the secondary controls convenient, but the centrally mounted instruments take a little getting used to. The heating and ventilation system is very comprehensive and efficient.
There’s an enormous amount of oddments space and luggage space is also very good. This, combined with a lot of passenger room and good access all round, will delight many families who may be squeezing into other, smaller SUVs. Kids will love the high riding position and excellent visibility.
We were unable to try the X-Trail in really deep mud but it coped with the modest amounts which most owners will encounter and its on-road manners are vice-less and reassuring with good ride both on and off road. In this area alone, the X-Trail can hold its own against many estates of lesser capacity and ability.
The Nissan X-Trail is a significant advance for the marque and you could say X marks the spot for future sales success.
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