The Nissan X-Trail

 

Nissan's offensive of electrified products will soon continue in the form of the new, fourth-generation X-Trail. Since its introduction in 2001, more than seven million copies of the X-Trail have been sold worldwide, which makes it one of the most popular vehicles for family adventures.


The new generation, just like the previous three, inherits the brand's signature style: a robust SUV design with intuitive technology, practical functions for greater flexibility and an advanced engine with all-wheel drive. The new X-Trail will be available in five- and seven-seat configurations, offering a convenient option for days out with extended family and friends.


Thanks to the Renault & Nissan alliance, the new CMF-C platform integrates advanced engineering, innovation and advanced technology, while the new X-Trail will once again raise the bar in the crossover segment. Buyers with a taste for adventure will enjoy the improved dynamic performance and advanced electrification technologies offered by the new generation X-Trail model.

 

 

The Design

The Design


 

The exterior is accentuated by distinctive Nissan design elements such as the floating roof and V-motion grille. The frontal aspect is framed by striking headlamps that are matched to the front bumper, combined daytime running lights and indicators located along the bonnet closure line.


At the sides, muscular wheel arches at the front and rear mark the X-Trail's presence on the road, while at the base of the door, an inset feature brings a sense of fluidity to the clean surfaces of the door. The shape of the C-pillar resembles a dolphin's fin, bringing tautness to the rear where rounded lights complete the rear three-quarter aspect.


At the rear, a noticeable horizontal line sits just above and below where the number plate is placed, while split taillights provide a wide boot opening. A silver panel curves under the rear bumper, reflecting the X-Trail's adventurous character.


Key aerodynamic features include "3D" tire deflectors in the lower front, an active grille cover to control airflow in the engine compartment, a specially shaped A-pillar, underbody flaps to manage airflow under the vehicle and a unique "air curtain" that precisely directs the air from the front to the sides of the X-Trail.


Customers always value personal details, so the new X-Trail will be available in 10 body colors with five two-tone combinations, creating at least 15 variations to choose from.

 


The Power

The Power



The new X-Trail will be the second model in Nissan's European range equipped with the brand's innovative e-POWER drive system. Exclusive to Nissan, the e-POWER system represents a unique approach to electrification, offering an electric driving experience without the need for recharging. It was first introduced in Japan in 2017 on the Note model which became the best-selling car, and customers loved its combination of smooth and effortless performance. 

 

 

e-POWER

 

The new X-Trail's e-POWER system consists of a high-output battery and powertrain integrated with a variable compression ratio gasoline engine, a power generator, an inverter and a 150 kW front electric motor. This unique powertrain means that power to the wheels comes only from the electric motor, resulting in instant, linear acceleration.


To meet the typical demands of customers in their daily driving, the e-POWER installation has been significantly improved for the new X-Trail. The application in the Japanese Note model had a 1.2 petrol engine that charges the battery, with a total power output of 106 hp. 


A unique element of the e-POWER system is that the gasoline engine is used exclusively to generate electricity, while the wheels are driven entirely by an electric motor. This means the engine can always operate in its optimum range, leading to superior fuel efficiency in urban environments.


Thanks to the all-electric drive, there is no lag like with an internal combustion engine or a traditional hybrid. Instant response provides a thrilling high-torque feel and agile acceleration to make overtaking or merging onto the highway easier and more confident.


An integral part of the design of the e-POWER installation is a "linear tune" system that manages the operation of the gasoline engine, ensuring that it turns at the appropriate speed in relation to the speed of the road, avoiding the "revving" effect of traditional hybrids under strong acceleration. 


A secondary benefit is the smoothness it brings, ensuring the engine only runs at the speed it needs, which is usually low in urban and suburban conditions. In addition to these advantages, the e-POWER drive system guarantees quiet driving, for example at 25 mph the sound in the car is lower by 8 dB compared to its competitors.

 

e-4ORCE

 

The new X-Trail will be presented with e-4ORCE technology, a new all-wheel drive that has been adapted exclusively for electrified models. It is Nissan's most advanced all-wheel control technology that guarantees reliable grip and acceleration in all driving conditions. The letter "e" in the name e-4ORCE means that the system has been developed to work exclusively with Nissan's electrified engines. That system will also be available in Nissan's 100% electric Ariya model.


The powerful dual electric drive develops a total power of 157 kW (213 hp) thanks to the 94 kW powerful rear engine that enables acceleration (from 0 to 60 mph in 7 seconds). Compared to mechanical all-wheel drive, torque is delivered to the rear axle 10,000 times faster. 


Continuous torque distribution, even between wheels on the same axle, and almost perfect mass distribution contribute to safer handling and greater comfort, turning driving into a dynamic, but also an extremely pleasant experience.


Power is delivered almost instantly, according to road conditions. The driver and passengers will not notice that the system is working in the background to improve grip and control. The system will work even in seemingly harmless situations.


The e-4ORCE system monitors the delivery of power and braking force at each individual wheel, allowing it to deliver power to the cornering wheels, thereby increasing the vehicle's agility and stability, and thus accurately holding the vehicle's path. This advanced traction control system is constantly active to ensure stability and grip in all situations, especially when the road is muddy, wet or covered in snow.


Engineers tuned the dual electric motor of the e-4ORCE system to achieve unparalleled driving comfort. Adding a regenerative braking system to the rear engine even reduced the body roll.


In addition to optimizing front and rear torque distribution, the system applies independent brake control to each of the four wheels to maximize the cornering force generated by each. This provides cornering that faithfully follows the driver's intentions with minimal steering adjustment.


"The X-Trail with the e-POWER and e-4ORCE system will occupy a unique place in the segment, as it is the only family crossover with 7 seats and an electrified powertrain. The X-Trail is exactly the type of vehicle that modern adventurous families are looking for,” said Cliodnha Lyons, regional vice president of product planning, Nissan's AMIEO region.

 

e-Pedal

 

Considering that 70% of driving time is likely to be spent in suburban areas, Nissan has developed an entirely new one-pedal driving experience called e-Pedal Step. Designed to remove the repetitive strain of stop-and-go city driving where the driver frequently moves their foot between the gas pedal and the brake, the e-Pedal allows the driver to accelerate and brake using only the gas pedal.


The system must first be activated by a switch on the center console, and after switching on, the accelerator pedal will provide acceleration as usual. After releasing the accelerator pedal, e-Pedal Step will brake the X-Trail to 0.2g, which is enough to illuminate the brake lights and reduce the speed to a "crawl" rather than a complete stop. 


Drivers will quickly adjust their throttle inputs to maintain a smooth ride, ensuring that city driving is more intuitive and less demanding.



The Interior

The Interior

 

The cabin of the all-new Nissan X-Trail sets new standards in the segment for superior ambience, distinctive design and improved handling. Advanced Nissan Intelligent Mobility technologies are at the driver's fingertips, with comfort and quality at every touch.


 New premium materials, smart features and thoughtful details enhance a cabin that delivers state-of-the-art design and practicality in every dimension. Great attention has been paid to the quality of ergonomic and tactile switches and buttons for a high-quality impression. 


Customer research has clearly shown that customers prefer easy-to-use basic functions, so the X-Trail has simple, intuitive heating/air conditioning controls as well as buttons that operate center screen functions such as audio and navigation.


The upper level of the floating center console features an e-shifter, drive mode selector and dual cup holders, as well as a 15w wireless smartphone charging pad. The charging pad actively charges your phone, while similar features just make sure your phone's battery doesn't run out. 


There is also a combination elbow rest for front seat passengers with a “butterfly” opening, which reveals a deep storage space for valuables. Side opening elements allow easy storage access for rear seat passengers, unlike the rear-hinged lid.


The upper level of the floating console is a place to store items such as a bag or tablet. It facilitates the storage of smaller items and creates optimal use of space because you can never have enough storage space in a family car. Creating a relaxing and pleasant environment, the new white ambient lighting is used throughout the cabin, and its uniformity gives a supremely harmonious impression.



To make it easier to load things, install a child seat or get comfortable in the car, the second-row seats are now even more accessible thanks to the rear passenger doors that open almost 90 degrees.


The rear seats split 60:40, and there's a center hatch so long items like skis can be easily transported without having to lower any part of the second-row seats. The backseats can also be moved forward to maximize trunk space and provide easy access to the third row in the 7-seat configuration.


Passengers in the second row are well looked after thanks to the option of dedicated controls for the heating/air conditioning system for increased comfort, which is vital in a family car. A key component that ensures a harmonious family trip is a stable energy supply for the maintenance of electrical devices. 


For the passengers in the back, there is USB Type-A and USB Type-C. Parents of babies and toddlers will appreciate the inclusion of integrated sun visors in the rear passenger door that offer protection on sunny days with easy one-handed operation.


Thanks to the efficiency of the Alliance's CMF-C platform, the new X-Trial is available with a third row of passenger space in the trunk. The individual seats, which effortlessly disappear into the floor, are designed to accommodate passengers up to 5”3 tall, making it one of the most generous in its segment. 


The space is optimized so that passengers in the third row can place their legs under the second row of seats. Access to the third row requires a simple operation of folding the front seat forwards allowing easy entry into the third row.


When the rear two seats are not in use, the boot space freed up puts the X-Trail among the first in its category when it comes to luggage space with a total capacity of 585 litres, an increase of 20 litres, thanks to best-in-class floor length and also width cabins. 


Improvements to the luggage compartment make loading easier and storing small items more convenient. In addition, the modularity of the two luggage panels offers 16 different layouts for optimal use of space.


The power tailgate makes it easy to access the trunk when your hands are anything but free. On the five-seat version, the flexible boot system remains and has been improved for the new model with reshaped panels as well as a durable carpet with fabric on one side and plastic on the other that is easy to clean.

 

The Technology

The Technology

 

Like the all-new Qashqai in Nissan's European lineup, the all-new X-Trail is based on the Renault-Nissan Alliance's CMF-C platform, which represents the most modern automotive structure and technology architecture.


In terms of construction, the body uses more lightweight materials as well as advanced stamping and welding techniques to increase strength but also reduce weight. For the first time, the rear hatchback doors on the X-Trail are now made of composite material. 


The front and rear doors, front fenders and engine cover are now made of aluminum. This provides the sophistication, driving comfort and responsive characteristic of the upper segment, plus exceptional safety in the event of an accident – ​​as well as the increased benefit of the car's overall efficiency.


The all-new X-Trail will continue to deliver a satisfying driving experience – living up to its reputation as a sophisticated and versatile car that's also fun to drive on winding roads. Thanks to the CMF-C platform, the new X-Trail has upgraded Macpherson shock absorbers mounted at the front. The rear suspension is an advanced multi-link setup.

 

Conclusion

The X-Trail's appeal over the past three generations has been its distinctive styling that creates a compelling sense of solidity and robustness without being aggressive. Both, the exterior and interior of the new X-Trail reflect the spirit of the vehicle – versatile and adventurous. 


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Tankut Basar

Tankut Basar is an ARA (American Rally Assoc.) Racing Driver and an FIA Bronze Category License Holder. His passion for driving began with karting like most racers. He started racing internationally at the age of 22. Tankut loves everything car-related and will keep enjoying the drive until the end. 

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