Nissan X-Trail - Variants explained

It was in 2015 that Nissan Malaysia introduced the X-Trail SUV in the local market. Post that not much has been changed, as all this while this SUV received no major update. If we remember right, the X-Trail Impul edition was launched in 2016, followed by the Aero edition in 2017. Also, in mid-June 2017 came the X-Trail facelift that has only graced the US market along with a few others. Our market still gets the same old and reliable X-Trail. However, though Nissan didn’t bring in the new X-Trail here, earlier this year we were graced with a new variant called the X-Tremer. So, it’s clear that if not with something major, Nissan Malaysia has kept the X-Trail alive and active by giving the SUV a few doses of freshness.

In this article, we’ll be discussing the journey of buying the Nissan X-Trail. If you are a prospective SUV customer in Malaysia with X-Trail as one of the cars in mind, here we have got all sorted for you. Apart from the X-Trail that we’ll be discussing in detail later, you can also check out its top rivals like the Mazda CX-5, Honda HR-V, and Mitsubishi Outlander. Get a glimpse of each here.

Now, when you enter a Nissan showroom looking for the X-Trail, here’s what you’ll find

- The X-Trail is available in two variants 2.0L 2WD and 2.5L 4WD
- Two more cars share the same underpinning and more with the X-Trail, and in a sense are its extended family members - the X-Trail Aero Edition and the X-Trail X-Tremer
- The starting price for X-Trail is RM 133,800, followed by Aero Edition and X-Tremer at RM 138,300

- Here’s an interesting fact, like the standard X-Trail, its two editions are offered with the same variants ( 2.0L 2WD and 2.5L 4WD ) as mentioned before
- The three X-Trail (Standard, Aero, and X-Tremer) shares the same cabin utility and luxury elements
- One major difference that comes with the three X-Trails is the exterior design. Which we think is great for the variation

All in all, we are left to understand two things

Firstly, how the three X-Trails differ visually for one another? Because otherwise, they are identical

Secondly, how the two variants, the 2.0L 2WD and 2.5L 4WD are different?

Let’s discuss each of them individually

Nissan X-Trail

The Nissan X-Trail portraits a beefy styling starting from its contoured front bumper to its distinguishing rear. Few of its striking designing traits are -

• Daytime running lights
• Signature chrome V-motion strut grille
• Fog lamps
• Premium Chrome Lining
• LED wing mirror signal lamps
• Roof rail
• Chrome door handles
• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Rear combination lamps
• Premium chrome tailgate garnish

Nissan X-Trail Aero Edition

This version of the X-Trail is dressed up in elements from the Japanese aftermarket specialist Tomei Motor. The package includes the following addition, and the rest remains same as above

• Front and rear aero bumpers
• Gloss black five-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels
• Side skirts
• Nappa leather upholstery

Nissan X-Trail X-Tremer

Out of the three, we feel it’s a lot easier to recognise the X-Tremer, all thanks to its distinguishable design theme. It features

• A two-tone exterior with Passion Red as a primary color
• Glossy black roof rails, door mirror, rear spoiler, and five-spoke 17-inch alloys
• X-Face cladding
• Chrome rear bumper protector
• Nappa leather seats finished in black

This was how the exterior on the three different X-Trail looks like, now its time to discuss the other aspects, i.e., cabin features and safety. As mentioned earlier, all the three SUVs displays an identical setup inside, apart from the upholstery. Let’s find out what the X-Trail specs have in stock

• 5-inch high-quality display
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Rear AC vents
• Full-color 5-inch advanced drive assist display
• Tilt & telescopic steering wheel
• Foldable second-row armrest with cup holders
• Generous boot space
• Foldable second and third-row seats
• Underfloor storage area

• 10 cup holders, two with cooling function
• Active Engine Brake
• Active Ride Control
• Active Trace Control
• Hill Start Assist
• Advance Hill Descent Control
• Active Brake Limited Slip
• Around View Monitor

Moving to the second question - 2.0L 2WD vs 2.5L 4WD

As mentioned all three X-Trail are offered in two engine options, both of which are known to pack adventure-ready performance while being fuel efficient. Further, both the mills are mated with Twin Continuously Variable-valve Timing Comtrol that not only initiates responsive driving but also contributes positively to mileage figure. Guarding the transmission front is the next-gen XTRONIC CVT with 7-speed manual mode that calls for seamless acceleration. Making your ride more efficient is the ECO button that controls rapid acceleration by controlling both engine and CVT operations.

Let’s now have a look at the performance numbers churned by the two mills -

First is the 2.0L 2WD option, with a displacement of 1,997cc it churns out 144 PS at 6,000 rpm and 200 Nm at 4,400 rpm. The 7-speed manual gearbox sends power to the front wheels.

Next, is the 2.5L 4WD, the 2,488cc engine generates 171 PS at 6,000 rpm along with a peak torque of 233 Nm at 4,000 rpm. Mated with the same XTRONIC CVT with 7-speed gearbox it sends power to all four wheels. As a standard offering in the 2.5L 4WD variant is the intelligent 4x4 drive system that offers incredible safety and driving pleasure. This diving system includes the following modes - 2WD for great handling and mileage, AUTO monitor terrain and adjust balance accordingly, and LOCK provides extra grip in challenging conditions.

That’s all on the Nissan X-Trail, you can choose any of the two engine configurations depending on the need and driving style. Also, out of the three X-Trails on offer, you can pick one depending on the style that appeals you the most.