New generation with a new look

Nissan unveiled the All-New X-Trail with a drastically changed look. By Jerrica Leong

If there ever is a case of plastic surgery gone right (trust me, I’ve yet to see one) that would be the Nissan X-Trail. Nissan introduced their latest version of the premium crossover with a bang at their recently completed (but yet to open) mega 3S centre in Glenmarie. The new crossover comes in two variants, the 2.5L 4WD and the 2.0L 2WD.

Gone is the boxy, squary design that reminds one strongly of Spongebob, the X-Trail is now stylishly sleek that is guaranteed to draw a few nods of approval when encountered on the road.

Of course, the X-Trail will have to bare some resemblance of the other Nissan siblings so some of Nissan’s signature features are integrated into the new X-Trail’s look such as the Boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights, the distinctive ‘V’-shaped Nissan grille and Rear Combination Lamp. You get roof rails on both variants and 17in alloy wheels complete the striking and imposing appearance.

Unique to the 2.5L 4WD is the auto function LED Headlights and LED Wing Mirror Signal Lights. 5+2 seating configuration comes standard for both variants with massive boot space when the third row seats are not deployed.

Nissan’s Zero-Gravity Inspired seats that we enjoyed so much in the Teana makes a comeback in the X-Trail while the entire interior is finished in soft touch materials. Modern elegance is channelled through the extra touches of chrome and geometric metallic in the interior.

Drastic changes were made to the appearance but work did not stop there, surgery was also done under the steel to give drivers a whole new driver’s experience. But we think it’s tedious to read about the changes in paragraphs so let’s list it down:

• The Nissan X-Trail comes with Active Chassis Control technology. This technology consists of Active Ride Control, this system moderates the pitching motion by controlling engine torque and brakes to improve ride comfort; Active Engine Brake adjusts the amount of engine braking to assist drivers to reduce speed when cornering or stopping; Active Trace Control is present to automatically apply small amounts of braking to individual wheels to reduce understeer.
• The 2.5-litre variant is equipped with an All Mode Intelligent 4x4 System (4x4-i) for different driving modes based on road conditions. Choose from three modes: two-wheel drive, Auto Mode that changes torque distribution between front and rear wheels and Lock Mode for permanent four-wheel drive.
• Both variants come with Hill Start Assist, but the 2.5L 4WD variant also features Hill Descent Control. This makes the X-Trail even more suitable for some off-roading fun!
• Now to the engine specs: the 2.5L 4WD has a QR25DE-k2 engine with Twin CVTC hidden beneath the bonnet. The engine displaces a max power output of 169bhp at 6000rpm and 233Nm of torque at 4000rpm.
• The 2.0L 2WD variant comes with the MR20DD engine with direct fuel injection and Twin CVTC. This engine is capable of 142bhp at 6000rpm and 200Nm of torque at 4400rpm.
• Both variants are fitted out with Nissan’s Next Generation Xtronic CVT with seven-speed manual mode to ensure a smoother ride and powerful driving performance.
• Both models also have am ECO button fitted out beneath the safety buttons to give a more frugal drive.

Fork out RM165,800 for the 2.5L 4WD or RM142,800 for the 2.0L 2WD (on-the-road with insurance for Peninsular Malaysia) and choose your X-Trail from a choice of five colours, Tungsten Silver, Titanium Olive, Diamond Black, Graphite Blue and Brilliant White. In conjunction with the launch of the X-Trail, Nissan is also offering three years or 100,000km warranty and three years of free maintenance service with every purchase.