First Drive: Is the updated Nissan X-Trail still one of the best family SUVs around?

What is it?

Now in its fourth generation, Nissan has opted to give its current car a facelift ahead of the arrival of an all-new version in the coming years. The upgrade brings refreshed styling, updated technology and a new N-Trek trim aimed at buyers with an active lifestyle. But is it enough to compete with the likes of the Skoda Kodiaq and Peugeot 5008? We’ve been to Barcelona to find out.

What’s new?

Inside there is also a new steering wheel, revised trim finishes and improved technology. Nissan has also done away with its old mild-hybrid petrol engine offering and all cars now come powered by e-Power hybrid system, which felt smooth and efficient on the roads around Barcelona.

What’s under the bonnet?

When it comes to specific engine choices, buyers have the option of a 204bhp front-wheel-drive model or a more powerful 213bhp e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive version, which also unlocks the option of seven seats. On the performance front, the standard car can do 0-62mph in 8.0 seconds, dropping to 7.0 seconds in the all-wheel drive version.

What’s it like to drive?

Overall, it is clear that the X-Trail has been designed with ride comfort in mind over performance and the suspension does a good job of soaking up potholes and rough surfaces without feeling overly soft at motorway speeds. Wind and road noise are also well suppressed, making the X-Trail accomplished over longer distances.

How does it look?

The X-Trail still manages to look both rugged and bold without being too in-your-face about it. At the front end, Nissan’s trademark V-shaped grille is comfortingly familiar while its tall stance and chunky proportions give the car plenty of road presence.

What’s it like inside?

Up front, all models come with dual 12.3-inch displays –a digital driver’s display and central touchscreen – while higher trims add Google Built-In infotainment and a head-up display. Meanwhile, there is plenty of adjustment in the driving position, visibility is good and passenger space is generous, even for a car of this size.

What’s the spec like?

At the top of the range, Tekna models gain 20-inch alloys, a Bose sound system, a head-up display and a digital rear-view mirror.

One area where the X-Trail does fall short though is boot capacity. In five-seat mode the Nissan offers just 575 litres of space – well short of the 910 litres in a Skoda Kodiaq and the 916-litre boot of a Peugeot 5008.

Verdict

Overall, this facelifted X-Trail is a small step up compared to what was already a very competitive package. Limited boot space aside, the X-Trail is incredibly practical, while also feeling comfortable, smooth and economical to drive.

While the changes may not shift the dial too much, and the X-Trail may lack the outright excitement of some of its rivals, as an everyday option, it is certainly one worth considering.