Nissan refreshes X-Trail The words “powerful family SUV”, “fuel economy” and “low prices” come together about as well as Julius and Helen around election time. Both seem to have competing end goals in mind, require different resources and development and generally end up sticking together as a no-win compromise. So when the latest incarnation of Nissan’s stalwart X-Trail SUV was announced with much fanfare about its reduction not only in fuel consumption and emissions but prices as well, the stage was set for a bit of a bunfight.
The MY2011 X-Trail is not a complete overhaul, but rather a rather extensive sharpening up of the interior, certain features and front end grille to match Nissan’s new family face, with revised headlamp clusters and slightly more bulged wheel arches to accommodate the larger alloys dressed in low rolling-resistance tyres, which is said to produce an 8% reduction in carbon emissions. At the rear, the vertical LED taillight clusters have been neatened up as well. Inside, some clever innovations have been added to provide a slightly roomier cabin with more creature comforts, such as keyless entry and start, revised upholstery and colour ranges, a more advanced on board computer and information display system and a rear view camera option as well. Upgraded interior materials and dashes of chrome trim improve the overall cabin ambience, and ample storage binnacles, cup holders and hidey holes found in most family SUVs are prevalent.