Originally launched with 2.0 petrol and 2.2 Di diesel engines. Both were adequate, though the diesel lacked power and refinement. The larger 2.5-litre petrol was added in late 2002 and the more modern 2.2 dCi replaced the 2.2 Di in December 2003. The 2.0 is a relaxed performer with excellent mid-range pull. The 2.2 Di engine is lively, but not quite as refined as German and French units.

Go for the dCi unit if you can.

X-Trail is surprisingly easy to drive for a large 4x4: it’s stable on the road, grips well and handles confidently. At speed, the steering is responsive, gearchanges are precise and the engines deliver good performance. The handling is heavy at low-speeds however, and drivers require surprisingly strong arms to park or manoeuvre the off-roader.