Nissan X-Trail Review: Buying Guide

The X-Trail is Nissan’s entrant into the ‘medium SUV’ market, NZ’s most popular passenger vehicle segment. For the unwashed, medium SUVs are all those high-riding wagon sort of things you see in traffic, being not too big or too petite, but sized about right for the average Kiwi family, both young and old. They are versatile, practical and easy to drive, which is why they are so popular. There are many to choose from, X-Trail competitors being the likes of the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Mitsubishi Outlander (with which it shares its platform) and Subaru Forester to name just a few. 

Given the popularity of medium SUVs, the X-Trail is offered with various model grades, front and AWD options and also seven seat versions. 

The entry point is the ST at $41,990 for the 2.5 FWD version while for a further $3000, the AWD model also comes with two extra seats in the boot. The ST-L, which adds a few extras, is $46,990, and there’s the $3000 4×4 seven-seat option for this model too. There is a third ST-L option, the e-Power hybrid (4×4 and 5 seats) which is $51,990. The top spec Ti-L is $57,990 and is only available in 4×4, five-seat configuration while the e-Power variant is $59,990. 

Check out all the Nissan X-Trail specifications

Conventional models are powered by a 135kW/244Nm 2.5-litre petrol four cylinder, driving via a CVT. Fuel consumption is quoted at 8.2L/100km for the 2WD and 8.7L/100km for the AWD. The e-Power makes 150kW and 330Nm via its twin-motor arrangement while its little 1.5-litre generator consumes 95 octane petrol at a rate of 6.1L/100km. Expect real world fuel use to be in the 9-10L/100km bracket for the 2.5 models and low 7s for the hybrid.  

which charges a small lithium-ion battery. This battery is used to power the electric motors which are used to propel the vehicle. There’s no conventional transmission, and so this drives more like an EV than an ICE machine. It has plenty of smooth torque for easy driving and feels strong in the 20-80km/h zone.

The e-Power does command a premium, and the fuel savings aren’t huge compared with the conventionally powered 2.5. However, the driving experience is enhanced, being smoother and more effortless. 

Read the Nissan X-Trail e-Power hybrid vs Honda CR-V RS hybrid comparison test 

Inside, you’ll find a wide format screen for the infotainment system, which responds quickly and is easy enough to navigate. There’s also Apple and Android compatibility. 

The family will find X-Trail accommodating; the rear doors open up nice and wide for good access, there’s plenty of leg room and twin Isofix points for the little ones. The rear seat (split 40/60) can also slide forward if you have something larger to carry in the boot. The 2.5 models can tow up to 2000kg while the e-Power is good for 1650kg.