Nissan X-Trail ST Car Review
02-September-2011
- Vital Stats
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$32,490 - $34,990
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Petrol
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Large
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8
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The scoop
The Nissan X-Trail has been around for a decade and the latest model tries to go off the success of its predecessor with its one-size-fits-all attitude - a compact, rugged 4WD with off-road abilities targeting the softies who prefer to remain on-road.
Since it first came onto the market, the X-Trail has been a popular choice because it ticks all the boxes for the average family - comfortable, affordable and has just enough ruggedness to schlep everyone and everything around - and this new model carries on the torch while letting down its hardcore, thrill-seeker image.
Expect to pay $32,490 for manual and an extra $2500 for auto.
The drive
The Nissan X-Trail has a 2.5L engine and decent responsiveness due to its relative lightness but don't be tempted to go hard because it's not that eager. For an SUV, the drive is smooth and easy; sometimes too easy - the light steering is off-putting. Handling is reasonable but watch out for some slip when accelerating and turning corners.
The thing about the Nissan X-Trail is that it made its mark for looking like an adventurous off-roader when it's really for the urbanite who talks the talk but doesn't walk the walk.
Mums will love the high seating position, straightforward controls and square shape that slides perfectly into tight spaces but they won't love that the height of the car will obscure their vision of objects below the rear window.
Regarding space, in the boot you'll find (or will you?...) a sneaky plastic (i.e. washable!) door hiding removable drawers and lockers. The interior is comfy and edgy all at the same time.
Safety
The X-Trail has a passable 4-star ANCAP rating. It comes with 6 airbags as standard and a number of features to aid your driving - electronic stability control (which can be switched off), brake assist, ABS and hill descent control.
Green factor
When the X-Trail is set to on-road mode it actually operates as a 2WD, meaning it uses less power than a constant 4WD vehicle with the same dimensions and components.
Describe the car in 3 words
Durable, practical, agile.
Best thing about the car?
Looks like a big car but drives like a small one.
Downsides of the car
Let's be honest, it's a little ugly...
Soundtrack for this car
Good Charlotte.