Updated Nissan X-Trail is a competent and practical family SUV

What’s new?

At a glance, the changes to the X-Trail seem rather limited. A light nip-tuck has refreshed the SUV’s exterior, while the cabin has also had a bit of work done.

Available as either a five- or seven-seater, the X-Trail should prove a popular choice with families who regularly have to cart groups of children around. Improved safety features will also add to the big Nissan’s appeal, as will the new ProPilot autonomous drive technology that the Japanese manufacturer will be rolling out on the model from Autumn 2018.

Looks and image

While the new X-Trail may not look too different from the model that it replaces, you’d still be hard-pressed to call it unattractive or dated in its appearance. Sure, it’s not especially beautiful to behold, but it’s still handsome in an understated fashion.

Higher-specification models make use of much more chrome brightwork around the exterior, which immediately lend the X-Trail a more upmarket image, while its front-end gains a more imposing version of the ‘V-motion’ grille that also appears on the smaller Qashqai.

Similar to the exterior, the interior doesn’t exactly blow you away with how plush and luxurious it is, but it’s still a well-appointed and comfortable place to be. The top-of-the-line Tekna model that we tested featured heated leather seats, satellite navigation and a new Bose stereo system.

Space and practicality

Nissan sells the X-Trail in both five- and seven-seat configurations, meaning there’s no shortage of passenger space. Yes, adult passengers won’t find the third row of seats incredibly appealing, but children should be more than comfortable back there.

The second row offers a great deal more space, and is far more suited to larger passengers. There’s plenty of head and legroom, meaning two adults should be able to sit in comfort over longer trips. There is a middle seat, too, but squeezing a third adult passenger in isn’t a hugely recommendable idea.

In five-seat configuration, the X-Trail offers up a 565-litre boot with the seats in place. Fold the middle row flat, and this will increase to 1,996 litres. A hands-free boot means access to the rear is now even easier – all you need to do is wave your foot underneath the tailgate and it will pop open, perfect if you’ve got your hands full with a heavy shop.

Behind the wheel

As well as putting the X-Trail through its pace on the road, the test route also included a brief off-road section. On this rough, loose surface, the X-Trail was plenty of fun. The suspension dealt with the ruts, bumps and craters that made up the gravel road incredibly well – with only the larger imperfections making themselves felt in the cabin. The X-Trail’s four-wheel drive system also meant you could plough on with plenty of confidence.

Off the track and back on the regular road, the X-Trail further impressed. Despite its heft, the SUV managed to remain surprisingly flat through faster corners, and well-weighted, direct steering meant you could turn in to corners with confidence.

The six-speed manual gearbox that was fitted to our car was something of a chink in the X-Trail’s armour. It was too vague and slushy for our liking, and would have benefitted from a shorter throw.

Value for money

As far as pricing is concerned, an X-Trail in the entry-level Visia specification will set you back from £23,385. This will get you the basic 1.6.-litre petrol engine with a six-speed manual gearbox and a five-seat layout. The most expensive model in the X-Trail range is the Tekna specification with the most powerful 2.0-litre diesel engine, seven seats and the XTronic automatic gearbox. This specification includes standard features such as full LED headlights, heated front and rear seats, and a premium eight-speaker Bose audio system.

Who would buy one?

According to Nissan, the new X-Trail is a car that will appeal to families who lead active, outdoorsy lifestyles. Thanks to the new SUV’s practical layout, powerful diesel engine and capable four-wheel-drive system, the Japanese manufacturer won’t be too wide of the mark here. Its comfortable road and reasonable fuel economy means it should also prove popular among families who regularly embark on holidays that involve a great deal of driving.

FACTS AS A GLANCE

Model: Nissan X-Trail 2.0 Tekna
Base price: £23,385
Price as tested: £37,115
Engine tested: 2.0-litre dCi177
Power (bhp): 175
Torque (Nm): 380
Max speed (mph): 126
0-60mph: 9.2 seconds
MPG: 50.4
Emissions (g/km): 149