The new Nissan X-Trail e-Power hybrid model is due to arrive in Australian dealerships from 2023.
The next-generation Nissan X-Trail has been officially detailed in Japan ahead of an expected launch in Australia next year, following the regular model’s introduction later this year.
Shown in full for the first time at the Shanghai motor show last year, the SUV once again shares the bulk of its exterior and interior design with the US-market Rogue, which it has followed onto a heavily updated version of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance’s CMF-C crossover platform – as used by the Nissan Qashqai.
That means it is offered with Nissan’s new E-Power hybrid drivetrain, a system that differs from a conventional hybrid powertrain in that a petrol engine features but is used exclusively to run a generator which in turn charges a battery via an inverter, which in turn powers an electric motor connected to the front axle.
Here, the set-up comprises a 1.5-litre petrol engine mated to a front-mounted electric motor for a total output of 140kW and has the same ‘e-Pedal’ one-pedal operational ability as the all-electric Nissan Leaf.
Unlike the Nissan Qashqai E-Power, the X-Trail will also offer Nissan’s e-4orce electrified all-wheel drive system, which adds a secondary electric motor on the rear axle to offer a claimed “huge leap in acceleration, cornering and braking performance”. As in the electric Nissan Ariya SUV, e-4orce is capable of quickly varying the distribution of torque between the front and rear axles to maximise cornering grip and stability.
The all-wheel-drive car is also equipped with different settings for driving on snow, mud and gravel.
This is the first time Nissan has shown the X-Trail’s interior, which is a close match for that of the latest Qashqai, although bespoke features include a pass-through centre console and an array of new colours and materials.
A pair of 12.3-inch screens dominate the dashboard, working together with standard-fit Amazon Alexa voice control and a 10.8-inch head-up display to minimise the need for drivers to take their eyes off the road.
The fourth-generation car will be available optionally with seven seats but is said to “remain sufficiently compact for easy parking manoeuvres” while offering “best-in-class” luggage capacity.
For the Qashqai, the slightly larger, latest generation of the CMF-C architecture brings new front suspension and a more responsive steering set-up to enhance dynamic behaviour and it is likely the X-Trail will largely follow suit. Nissan has confirmed an all-wheel-drive variant will be offered.
Dimensions and other technical details have yet to be revealed, but the new Rogue is 38mm shorter and 5mm lower than its predecessor, so expect similar changes for the X-Trail, alongside a raft of aero-focused new design cues.
Automotive Daily