Late last year, AutoTrader jetted off to Egypt to sample a host of Nissan products at a global summit. At said summit, we were unofficially told about the impending closure of the Rosslyn plant, sampled a host of vehicles that at the time we were told would not be considered for South Africa, received news of the incoming Tekton compact SUV and drove updated SUVs such as the new Patrol and the latest X Trail. At the time, we were led to believe that the latest X Trail was under consideration for the SA market, but no further information was given.
Related: New Nissan models driven in Egypt
Skip ahead just over nine months, and the updated X Trail is now going on sale in SA. Positioned as an adventurous family crossover, it refuses to blend into the background. We got behind the wheel of the updated Nissan X-Trail 2.5 CVT 4WD to evaluate how it holds up on local roads and to hear what Nissan has planned for the local market going forward.
No new Navara for SA? Nissan's gamble
A brand looking forward
The Nissan Rosslyn Plant is gone and in the hands of Chery now, but that is not the end of the story. The sale of the plant has freed up much of Nissan's capital and now allows it to concentrate on new models for import. In the coming months, we will see the arrival of the new Nissan Tekton, the new Patrol, a new Navara, and a growing list of products that Nissan is keeping under wraps for now, but we surmise will include some of their E-Power models.
The plans are ambitious yet achievable, and it is plain to see that Nissan isn't going anywhere, and consumers can buy its cars with certainty that they won't be left holding the can.
Styling
Not much has changed with the new X Trail over the outgoing model. There have been some revised styling elements on the outside and a revamp of the inside. Up front, there are sleek LED headlights, distinctive, imposing front air vents, and robust yet crafted lines. The unmistakable V-motion grille bears the familiar signature of Nissan’s exciting design DNA that is found on many of its European models.
Where you once found gloss black trim, it has been replaced by a satin black variation. The bumpers have been redesigned front and rear, and new 18 and 19-inch wheels can be found on the upper model ranges. Nissan also introduces 4 new colour ways to the range: blue, beige, and two-tone variations of each.
Interior & features
Inside, the cabin delivers an excellent balance of comfort, versatility, and modern layout tailored for busy lifestyles and family trips. Everything is structured to ensure drivers and passengers enjoy long-distance journeys without feeling fatigued. Almost all of the piano's black trim has been replaced with matte black plastic with a faux wood-grain texture. Genuine leather replaces the once-faux-leather PVC seat coverings, and the electronic suite gets a major upgrade.
The infotainment screen is a massive 12.3-inch full TFT unit, while the driver gets a 10.3-inch digital cluster. A full 360-degree 8-point camera system is installed so that drivers can see fully around them, which is included in the Nissan ProPilot ADAS system.
Engine and drivetrain
Under the hood, the model retains the responsive 2.5-litre engine with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Power comes in at 135kW and 244Nm and is efficiently routed through Nissan’s advanced intelligent all-wheel drive system. You can expect a 10.4-second sprint to 100km/h and a claimed 7.4 L/100 km fuel consumption. The system also features a 5-mode selectable 4x4 Drive Mode wheel switch, including: Normal Mode, Sport Mode, Eco Mode, Off-road Mode and Snow Mode.
The drive
Our launch route was relatively short, comprising a tarmac loop with open freeway and stop-and-go traffic, as well as a slow gravel route through a game farm. On the road, the Nissan X-Trail delivers a smooth and composed ride for the entire family. Thanks to its lightweight chassis and superior handling characteristics, the crossover handles varied surfaces with confidence.
Off-road, the all-wheel drive experience was superb. Even though going was slow, you could feel the vehicle working beneath you. The CVT is one of the best we've driven, coming across like a perfectly programmed auto. The 5 selectable drive modes allow you to tailor power delivery and traction to match your exact driving conditions—whether cruising eco-consciously on the highway, sharpening throttle response in Sport mode, or navigating loose surfaces in Off-road.
Pricing
| Nissan X Trail 2.5 Visia | R 599 900 |
| Nissan X Trail 2.5 Acenta | R 688 900 |
| Nissan X Trail 2.5 Acenta+ 4WD (Driven on launch) | R 770 900 |
* These are launch prices and are only available for a limited time. Check with your local dealer
All Nissan X Trail models are sold with a 6-year / 150 000km warranty and a 3 Year / 90 000km service plan
Verdict
The Nissan X-Trail 2.5 CVT 4WD offers an impressive balance between powerful output and control. With its signature V-motion design, robust, ultra-high-strength, lightweight chassis, and versatile 4x4 drive modes, it remains a highly capable, stylish choice for families seeking unmatched comfort on any surface and is a standout Japanese product in a sea of Chinese offerings.
