Nissan has unveiled an updated Nissan X-Trail SUV at the Frankfurt International Motor Show. The Nissan X-Trail has been a soft-road staple for the Japanese manufacturer for many years and it wore understated styling to suit the role. Using lines we first saw in the Nissan Hi-Cross Concept from Geneva, it appears the new Nissan X-Trail will replace its boxy, utilitarian, looks with a sleeker, head-turning, Qashqai-like design.
As a concept, the Nissan Hi-Cross is larger in every respect when compared with the current X-Trail. 30 mm longer, 55 mm wider and riding on a 151 mm longer wheelbase, but despite this, it appears the new Nissan X-Trail has kept much of the concept showcar’s styling promises. The cosmetic makeover might make the next Nissan X-Trail more appealing on the high street, but Nissan says it’s still going to be able to conquer the rough stuff.
Buyers will have the option of a sensible two-wheel drive and more-capable all-wheel-drive model. The latter of which will be controlled by Nissan’s tried and tested All Mode 4x4i system. The electronic system, which offers two-wheel or four-wheel drive at the touch of a button, is also able to distribute torque by itself in ‘Auto’ mode.
Active Ride and Active Engine Brake will help the next generation X-Trail maintain its composure off-road and Active Trace Control (something taken from Infiniti) can brake individual wheels to counteract understeer when driving dynamically on-road. It is a comprehensive list of driver aids to ensure the new Nissan X-Trail is more capable and dynamic than ever before.
Drivetrain wise, there is little to know at the moment, but the Nissan Hi-Cross Concept had a hybrid powertrain, which paired a 2.0-litre petrol engine with the electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack from a Nissan Leaf. It’s a convenient pairing for the both of them and one which is harnessed by Nissan’s new XTronic CVT automatic transmission.
The new Nissan X-Trail should go on sale by 2014 and will be built on the Renault Nissan Alliance’s common architecture, and will be offered in 190 countries.