Best Recreational 4WD

They say that the more things change, the more they stay the same, and this is true of Nissan’s X-Trail.

The new X-Trail, while slightly larger, doesn't look much different from the model it replaced because, according to Nissan, its compact SUV formula has proven itself in the marketplace.

Nissan’s new X-Trail strikes that difficult-to-achieve balance between on-road driveability and off-road performance, while offering refinement, comfort, safety and quality in a package that abounds in practical features.

While X-Trail retains much of its predecessor’s styling, it’s under the skin and inside that have important improvements.

The 125 kW, 2.5-litre, all-aluminium engine is slightly more powerful than the previous model, though it’s the revised torque curve that really improves mid-range response.

It now comes with the option of a CVT automatic transmission, which replaces the old four-speed automatic (the new manual has six speeds instead of five).

Inside, the dashboard layout now places the instrument binnacle directly ahead of the driver to improve functionality, though ergonomics are let down to some degree by the lack of reach-adjustable steering.

Nice touches include heated and cooled cup holders, lots of storage pockets and higher quality trim materials.

The cargo space has been substantially increased and a practical slide-out storage tray has been added under a lift-out double floor. Removing the false floor increases storage space by around 50 percent.

The boot floor has a tough, water resistant and easy-to-clean plastic surface, with raised ribs to help prevent loads shifting when the vehicle is on the move.

X-Trail’s safety score has also improved dramatically.

All X-Trails are now equipped with electronic stability, traction control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake distribution and brake assist. There’s also dual front, front side and full-length curtain airbags, active head restraints and seatbelt pretensioners.

On the road, its passenger car lineage is evident by its quite comfortable ride. While handling is reasonable, it isn’t a sports car and there is no pretence that X-Trail is anything other than an SUV.

Off road, the new X-Trail shows why it rated near the front of the Recreational 4WD pack.

Nissan’s ‘intelligent’ ALL MODE 4x4-i four-wheel-drive system is controlled by the twist of a centre console-mounted knob, which allows a choice between front-wheel drive or fully automatic four-wheel drive. This ensures optimum distribution of engine torque between front and rear axles.

A centre differential lock is also provided for improved off-road performance. Two new and worthwhile standard features are hill descent control, which uses the anti-lock brakes in off-road conditions, and hill start assist, which prevents the vehicle rolling backwards during hill starts.  

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