Overview

Handsome, well made and – whisper it – surprisingly lush inside. The Nissan X-Trail family SUV is more appealing than ever and comes with plenty of variety. Designed for buyers looking to up-size from a Qashqai, through having a larger family or the need to tow, it will feel reassuringly family and also much chunkier at the same time.

Entry-level models are mild-hybrid and front-wheel drive, with a more powerful and efficient full hybrid E-Power system offered. If you want more performance or the security of four-wheel drive, E-4orce versions of the full hybrid are worth a look, while five or seven seating configurations are available.

Truth be told, even if you do opt for seven chairs, the X-Trail is best thought of as a five-seater with the option of two occasional seats that fold out of the boot; even Nissan says they’re best suited to kids. That puts it up against the SEAT Tarraco and Skoda Kodiaq, as well as hybridised versions of the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe.

We’ve driven several versions at the international launch, in snow driving events and extensively in the UK in a number of scenerios. For context, we’ve also driven all of old X-Trail variants, and the current generation is a huge leap forward from that. You can find out exactly how we test cars here. 

There are five trim levels to choose from, although it’s worth noting that not every trim level is available with every engine. As well as the eye-catching E-Power versions, which justifiably boast an EV-like driving experience, there’s also a VC-Turbo mild hybrid available – disappointingly for those who like to tow stuff, there’s no diesel option offered.

Base level Visia models come with alloy wheels, parking sensors and cruise control. Upping it to Acenta Premium adds wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a reversing camera. N-Connecta cars upgrade to a 12.3-inch infotainment system, Tekna models receive Nissan’s semi-autonomous technology and top dog Tekna+ buyers will benefit from 20-inch alloys and a Bose sound system.

Click through the next few pages to read everything you need to know about the Nissan X-Trail, including how practical it is, how much it costs to run, what it’s like to drive – and whether we recommend buying one or not.