What is it?
From its heydays, where models like the Sunny and Micra sold in reasonably decent numbers, while the Datsun models helped the carmaker with at least some traction in entry-level segments, Nissan India’s product portfolio is now restricted to just one model in the form of the Magnite. Even as the B-SUV has helped its carmaker establish a foothold in the entry-SUV class, the carmaker plans to launch as many as 6 new cars by 2026 as a part of its ‘The ARC’ strategy. The first of these has just entered the market. Yes, we’re talking of the fourth-generation Nissan X-Trail which has gone on sale for a rather steep Rs 49.92 Lakh (ex-showroom). We recently drove the new SUV around the National Capital. Allow me to tell you a bit about my driving experience.
Bold But Not-So-Brawny
Do you know, the Nissan X-Trail has been around for over 24 years? Now in its fourth generation, the premium SUV no longer offers a quirky, rather boxy silhouette that was the highlight of the first two generations. Instead, you get a more modern, more angular, and decidedly more upmarket design that helps the SUV with a pretty high road presence. Of course, the first to catch your attention will be the bigger dimensions and the signature V-Motion grille. Other highlights of the front-end include the split headlamps arrangement and the sporty bumper with air intakes neatly integrated at the terminal ends.
Another talking point of the styling package is the stylish 20-inch alloy wheels. Wrapped in 255/45-section rubber, these rims are the biggest in the segment. For reference, the Toyota Fortuner rides on 17-inch rims, while even the Skoda Kushaq gets 16-inchers. The rear-end is characterized by sleek wraparound taillamps and a rather upright tailgate with a roof-mounted spoiler. All in all, the new X-Trail misses out on the sheer brawniness that the Toyota Fortuner offers or even the Teutonic lines of its German rivals, but manages to hold its own with a sufficiently premium and bold look that will guarantee at least some eyeballs on the streets.
Many Hits and Some Misses
The interior won’t make you go wow immediately but it’s quick to start growing on you. You’ll appreciate the neat layout and overall practical nature. But what you’ll also frown upon is the absence of features that are generally available even on some C2-segmenters. Even the touchscreen isn’t large enough and reminds me of the unit on the erstwhile Kicks. There’s no wireless smartphone integration either. Other glaring omissions include electric and ventilated seats, an electric tailgate, and wireless smartphone integration. However, the digital instrument cluster provides you with a plethora of info. The features list includes a dual-zone aircon, a wireless smartphone charger, rain-sensing wipers, a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera, auto headlamps, and 7 airbags. But then, again, there’s no ADAS.
All the doors open wide, thereby making ingress and egress pretty easy. In the middle row, there’s ample room for three to sit abreast. Plus, the large panoramic sunroof and DLO ensure the cabin feels airy. The third row, though, leaves some more to be desired. The headroom and even the shoulder room won’t be enough for even two teens seated together. There’s no dedicated AC vent either. So, the third row is best left to pets and kids over short journeys.
X-citing Enough?
Easily the biggest highlight of the new X-Trail is its sole engine option – a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol unit that works in tandem with a 12-volt mild-hybrid unit. Now, before you get dismayed by the three-pot layout, let me add that this engine is loaded with some tech wizardry Nissan calls Variable Compression. What this results in is an optimized power delivery and fuel mileage based on the driving condition. Basically, the highest compression ratio results in great fuel efficiency, while the lowest ratio helps you with the highest possible performance. So, the compression ratio of the X-Trail’s three-potter varies from 8:1 to 14:1 based on the throttle input.
The engine stands out with its exceptional refinement and sufficient punch across the rev-range. At low speeds, it delivers a smooth and stress-free performance, with stellar fuel efficiency to boot. With a heavier foot, the X-Trail is quick to gain momentum and the tacho needle starts hovering around the 6,000 RPM mark in no time. It’s not only easy to hold on to, say, 120 km/h, on the expressway but even quick overtaking maneuvers don’t require anything more than a dab of accelerator. There’s no noticeable turbo lag and the variation in compression ratio is seamless, but the characteristic ‘Rubber Band’ effect creeps in during aggressive acceleration.
The steering offers a satisfactory weight and precise control, making it easy to navigate the X-Trail while minimizing unnecessary body movement. It’s perfectly adequate but not particularly engaging around the corners. On the newly opened Dwaraka expressway, the new X-Trail felt planted. But some quick lane changes are all it took to reveal the lack of poise you find on the Skoda Kodiaq. Well, I don’t see X-Trail buyers engaging in high-speed lane-splitting, and for most parts, the new SUV will impress with the balance it strikes between ride comfort and sharp handling. It’s just that the large 20-inch wheels make things a bit jarring over big potholes. Another chink in the armor is the lack of 4WD, though the Limited Slip Differential helps.
The 5 Million Question
The new Nissan X-Trail is undoubtedly some sensible family transport that even showcases some of the best from Nissan. Its three-cylinder petrol mill, alone, is a case study in avant-garde technology. While not an excellent corner-carver or a magic carpet, the new offering even offers a good mix of plushness and sure-footedness. And then, there’s the practical and well-built interior that offers as much space as the VW Tiguan Allspace. But the lack of enough goodies is what will put off some. Especially when you consider the on-road price of over Rs 55 lakh (thanks to ridiculous import duties on CBUs). At that price point, the new X-Trail ends up being considerably pricier than its German rivals, and dangerously close to the high-end Toyota Fortuner. That said, with just 150 units allotted to us in the first year, Nissan India isn’t chasing volumes. And as a showcase of the carmaker’s capabilities, the new X-Trail certainly makes for a well-rounded halo product. If only it was priced right. Sigh!
