The all new Nissan X-TRAIL is the ultimate compact SUV, combining authentic 4x4 styling with real outdoor functionality. It's the perfect choice for those with an active and adventurous lifestyle.

The new X-TRAIL offers more interior space, greater comfort and refinement and more equipment than its predecessor. A new range of engines provide improved driveability, economy and reduced emissions. Passenger and pedestrian safety has been enhanced and the dramatically improved interior styling is highly functional and user-friendly.

EXTREMELY CAPABLE

New from the ground up, the latest Nissan X-TRAIL shares its platform with the recently launched Qashqai. The platform features strut-type suspension at the front with a multi-link system at the rear, both ends being mounted on separate rubber insulated sub-frames providing enhanced refinement and isolation from vibrations.

The new X-TRAIL is engineered to appeal to customers who are young at heart and demonstrates Nissan's ability to build authentic and capable off-road vehicles.

The new model is larger than before: its wheelbase has increased to 2 630mm, while overall length has grown by 175mm to 4 360mm. Much of this extra length can be found in the trunk area, which has increased dramatically in size. Although larger, the new    X-TRAIL remains a compact SUV, one that's comfortable and easy to drive on-road and off-road.

The approach and departure angles of 28 and 24 degrees respectively and generous 203mm of ground clearance, enable the X-TRAIL to traverse difficult terrain with comparative ease.   

At the heart of the X-TRAIL's capability is its highly-regarded ALL MODE 4x4 electronic all-wheel drive system fitted to all 4x4 models. Easy to operate, the driver can select from three modes using a rotary knob on the centre console, according to driving conditions: 2WD, AUTO and LOCK. An electronically controlled coupling distributes the required torque to the front and rear axles in accordance with the driver's selection. 2WD mode is used in normal tar driving conditions. This driving mode offers excellent on-road performance and fuel economy. AUTO mode is used on gravel or slippery surfaces. This advanced technology delivers outstanding on-road stability during both cornering and straight-line driving. For extra peace of mind, AUTO mode also provides added traction and stability when driving on wet roads or during heavy crosswinds. The 4WD controller monitors engine speed and acceleration characteristics. It automatically distributes the required torque to the rear wheels when necessary via an electronically controlled coupling mechanism. LOCK mode, used at low speed, locks the center clutch for full-time 4WD operation, with a distribution ratio of 50:50 (front/rear).

In addition to this, high specification 4x4 models are fitted with the latest ‘intelligent' all-wheel drive system, designated ALL MODE 4x4-i. Amongst the highlights of ALL MODE 4x4-i are HSA (Hill Start Assist) and HDC (Hill Descent Control). HSA is a fully automatic system that activates on any slope that exceeds a 5.7 grade incline, holding the vehicle on the brakes until the driver starts to move away. The system also works if the vehicle is reversing up an incline. HDC is operated via a switch on the centre console and engages when ALL MODE is in lock mode. HDC uses the anti-lock brakes to maintain a speed of 7km/h, allowing the driver to concentrate on steering. Like HSA, the system also works when the vehicle is in reverse.

The ALL MODE 4X4-i system also includes yaw-rate and steering angle sensors that increase the amount of tactile steering feedback when driving, work in conjunction with the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and the 4WD system to realize a neutral steer when the front and rear wheels are spinning. The VDC improves the vehicles handling, by detecting and preventing skids and slides, helping the driver maintain control of the vehicle. It does this by comparing the driver's intended direction (by measuring steering angle) to the vehicles' actual direction (by measuring the lateral acceleration, vehicle rotation (yaw) and individual wheel speed). If the vehicle is not going in the direction the driver is steering, then the VDC brakes individual front or rear wheels and/or reduces excess engine power as needed to help correct under-steer and over-steer. This system is similar to the one featured in the Murano and the 350Z.

IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE

The X-TRAIL is an extremely capable everyday vehicle, engineered to appeal to customers who appreciate a top-class on-road drive as well as authentic off-road appeal. This SUV is as comfortable going to the office during the week as it is travelling on a weekend or holiday trip.  

The new X-TRAIL will initially be available in five petrol derivatives, while another five diesel derivatives will follow later in the year.

An all new 2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder petrol power plant has strong performance, good economy and class-leading refinement, producing 102kW of power at 5 200rpm and offers 198Nm at 4 400rpm. The other 2.5-litre petrol power plant produces 125 kW and 226 Nm of torque.  

All manual models have six-speed gearboxes with the 2.5 litre engine available with a Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) option.

IN SAFE HANDS

Ventilated disc brakes all round are enhanced by the latest generation Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) together with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) as well as Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS) on the high models. EBD constantly alters the front rear balance to achieve optimum brake performance, automatically compensating for differing load conditions. ABS prevents wheels from locking, keeping you in control of steering. BA senses the driver's braking force in hard or panic braking situations and optimizes performance by increasing brake force. ABLS applies braking force, via the ABS, to any wheel that looses traction while directing torque to the opposite wheels with grip.

The new Nissan X-TRAIL boasts six airbags, including dual stage driver and front passenger airbags, thorax side airbags and full-length curtain airbags on both sides to provide extra protection in case of a side impact.

Active headrests limit head movement if you're hit from behind. They move forward, then return to their normal position as the impact subsides, helping to reduce the risk of whiplash injuries for the driver and front seat passenger.

The new X-TRAIL's Electric Power Steering provides more assistance and a

strong self-centering action for easy town driving. More steering feel is provided at higher speeds. And since there's no hydraulic pump, this kind of power steering helps you save on fuel.

QUALITY AND DESIGN

Although the X-TRAIL has been completely restyled, customer research clearly showed that the robust, strong shape of the original was popular, and was a key factor in the decision making process for many buyers.

With this in mind, key design cues of the original X-TRAIL, such as the solid shoulder line, deep glasshouse and static window line, have been retained in the new X-TRAIL.

Strength is conveyed by the deep D-pillar behind the revised profile of the rearmost side window, by the extended wheel-arches and by the grille which echoes the style found across the Nissan's 4x4 range.

At the back, the one-piece top-hinged tailgate extends deep into the bumper to create a low loading sill, while the high mounted stop lamp has been integrated into the top of the frame itself, rather than being mounted behind the tailgate glass as before.

The larger and longer new X-TRAIL houses maximised interior space and a high quality interior with strong attention to detail. Soft-touch materials feature on all touch points, while grained and flocked surfaces in contrasting shades are used throughout the cabin. Depending on trim level, instrument surrounds and other features are finished in silver or titanium colours.

As with other recent Nissan models, the X-TRAIL has been created with versatility and practicality in mind.

A large centrally-mounted dash-top storage box is deep enough to house 10 CD cases or items the size of a tissue box, while the vast 15.7-litre glove box has a dedicated section for the owner's manual. The new X-TRAIL features six cupholders throughout the cabin, four of which can be chilled or heated as desired.

The most versatile aspect of the new X-TRIAL is the trunk, which offers 603-litres of space with the rear seats in place, an increase of 193-litres compared to the original X-TRAIL. This has been achieved by rerouting the exhaust silencer from its original transverse position under the boot floor to a north/south location alongside the rear wheel well.

X-TRAIL's proven versatility is taken a step further, with the creation of an innovative double deck trunk, where a sliding drawer under the floor can store valuable items away from prying eyes. The drawer has partition walls that can be placed in a number of different positions or removed altogether as required. The floor and the drawer can both be removed to increase load space even further, resulting in a deeper and wider trunk area than before, and even with the false floor in place, as tall. With the drawer removed, the boot height is increased by 127mm over the original.

The removable and washable luggage board has been finished in a tough, easy-to-clean plastic surface. Raised ribs help to prevent loads shifting when the vehicle is on the move, while the new tonneau cover features a handle for ease of use.

The rear seats recline for maximum passenger comfort and also fold flat to increase load space. Instead of a conventional 60/40 split fold, the new X-TRAIL has a 40/20/40 folding system, to increase flexibility.

Air conditioning and front and rear power windows are standard across the range, while Bluetooth® mobile phone connectivity is available on specific models.

The new X-TRAIL will be available in three different trim levels: XE (entry level), SE (middle-specification) and LE (top specification).

Detailed information by model is available on www.nissan.co.za.

 

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