Nissan has introduced a two-wheel-drive version of its popular X-Trail vehicle, aimed at the multi-purpose vehicle segment.Nissan has introduced a two-wheel-drive version of its popular X-Trail vehicle, aimed at the multi-purpose vehicle segment.
Nissan says the two-wheel-drive version has all the space, comfort and presence of its popular all-wheel drive stable mates, but is designed for families looking for a lifestyle vehicle who don’t need all-wheel drive.
It is powered by a same 2,0-litre four-cylinder multi-valve petrol engine as the 4×4 version and uses the same five-speed manual gearbox. Peak power of 103 kW is achieved at 6 000 revs/min, with maximum torque of 192 N.m at 4 000 revs/min.
It features a cylinder block with ladder-frame construction for improved strength and reduced resonance, while a pair of counter-balance shafts are claimed to all but eliminate secondary vibrations. The twin-cam head has a chain-driven valvetrain that also allows for automatic valve timing adjustment to optimise the width of the powerband, with the low mass of the valves and springs contributing to its overall smoothness and response. Finally, a drive-by-wire throttle and state-of-the-art engine management system ensure maximum refinement and minimal fuel consumption.
The safety specification includes dual airbags and ABS brakes. It also has keyless entry and the NATS anti-theft system. Front suspension is by MacPherson struts while the rear is a combination of coil struts and parallel links, providing enough travel to soak up the worst bumps. Anti-roll bars keep things tautly under control when cornering or taking evasive action.
The instrument binnacle is positioned in the centre of the facia, providing the driver with a second glove box storage area. There are a pair of “refrigerators” chilled by the air conditioning – one either side of the tuner/tape – each of which accommodates a standard cool drink can.
The X-Trail has rear foglamps, electrically operated exterior mirrors and there are auxiliary 12-volt power points in the driver’s side cubby and in the hatch area.
The 60/40 split rear seats fold flat once the rear cushion is tilted forward against the front sets, providing space for the likes of mountain bikes, dogs, or diving gear. The floor of the load area is finished in a rugged plastic material – as is the rear seatback – which allows dirt to be swept away or washed off. This floor panel can be removed completely if necessary, revealing a bucket-shaped plastic recess within the spare wheel that can be used for dirty or wet items.
A retractable tonneau cover that keeps belongings hidden from view when the rear seats are in the normal position covers the luggage area, and one of five increasingly reclined settings can be chosen. The X-Trail can carry a full-sized surfboard, by removing the rear seat cushions completely and reclining the front passenger seat as far back as possible.
“The focus market is largely active families who still want freedom and independence despite the children,” explains Wilhelm Baard, Nissan South Africa’s senior manager, passenger vehicle marketing. “They have a lifestyle that embraces a host of demanding outdoor activities – and often different ones for each member of the family – and they need a vehicle that accommodates such a routine.
“This new addition to the X-Trail range is a comfortable, spacious and easy-to-drive vehicle which will prove ideal for work, gym, transporting the kids to school and their extra-murals, and still be up to whatever is planned for the weekend.”