How do you replace a car when your customers tell you they like it just the way it is? Following a hugely successful car like the original X-TRAIL is not an easy task, especially when customers tell you to leave things as they are. But the all-new X-TRAIL is the perfect example of evolutionary change. Keeping the first-generation model in production wasn't practical, so the latest X-TRAIL is all-new, though as close in concept to its predecessor as possible. We were lucky enough to be one of the first to drive the new X-TRAIL out in Greece, so read on to find out how the new car shapes up.The 2007 X-TRAIL boasts a new chassis and new body, an expanded range of more powerful engines providing better performance and economy. There’s more interior space, a much larger trunk area and greatly enhanced interior quality. It still retains the classic, tall SUV proportions of the original, a model that was such a success that the company more than doubled anticipated sales. The most obvious change inside the cabin, is the repositioning of the instrument cluster, which has been moved from the central stack to back behind the multi-function steering wheel. By returning the dials to a position directly ahead of the driver, Nissan have been able to place the navigation/reversing camera screen and the audio system higher up in the centre stack where the information they give are more easily seen. By improving the X-TRAIL on a number of levels but at the same time retaining its core appeal, Nissan are confident that as well as attracting new buyers they will increase customer loyalty.
The new X-TRAIL is fitted with a new diesel engine in 150bhp and 173bhp versions, the former with the option of automatic transmission. Each is impressively flexible, although the 173bhp diesel version benefits from more low-down pulling power than the 150bhp engine. There are also the 141bhp 2.0-litre and 169bhp 2.5-litre petrol engines to choose from. Both petrol-engined versions of X-TRAIL come with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, but are also available with a refined continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) with manual over-ride.
It retains all the qualities of the original although slightly larger than the original, it remains a compact SUV, one that’s comfortable and easy to drive on-road and off the beaten track. On Tarmac, the X-TRAIL strikes a fine balance between passenger comfort and driving pleasure, with suspension that provides a comfortable ride over any surface, yet also gives decent control through corners. Nissan’s latest electronically controlled ‘intelligent’ ALL MODE-i 4x4 system, which now works in parallel with hill start and descent control systems as well as reinforcing the X-TRAIL’s off-road capability, ALL MODE-i ensures that the dynamic performance on-road is stable, secure and predictable. By sending power to the wheels that have grip, understeer and oversteer is neutralised, which in turn leads to a more enjoyable, positive driving experience.
Despite the increase in overall dimensions, there is a generous 200mm ground clearance and short overhangs front and rear. At the front, the bonnet line stretches out almost horizontally from the base of the windscreen while the rear of the car is square, almost box-like with a more vertical and deeper tailgate to ensure the lowest possible loading sill. This is matched by the static side windows and the gently flared shoulders which run in parallel to the roof which is ribbed for extra strength and incorporates roof rails. Optionally available are deep Hyper roof rails which have in-built driving lamps at the front. It is in the luggage are where the new X-TRAIL shows its versatility with a larger trunk than before and an innovative drawer unit that slides away under a false floor where valuables can be kept out of sight at all times. When the rear seats are folded, the new X-TRAIL provides a luggage area of 1649 litres and with the false floor removed, the load capacity is incresed to 1773 litres.
X-TRAIL has sold in large numbers to European customers who appreciate its mix of practicality, ability and all-round performance and there is no reason to suggest that position will be any different for the new X‑TRAIL
