The restructuring of the SUV range of Nissan X-Trail forces to cover new fronts, first offering the versatility of the Qashqai + 2 and on the other, taking up the spirit of effective todocamino the previous X-Trail. Can it all?

With 26 cm Extra body in front of the Qashqai and larger trunk, he Nissan X-Trail It can be for many a more versatile alternative to the successful Nissan SUV. In fact, we would not be wrong to consider it as a Qashqai + 2, it takes its place in the range and, as it offers the possibility of having a 7 seats inside. Of course, it should be noted that in case of opting for the two additional seats, which are hidden under the floor of the roof rack when not needed, 100 liters are lost. Thus the huge trunk of Nissan X-Trail Conventional -variable between 535 and 740 liters, depending on how the position sliding rear bench– it passes more modest but not negligible 435-640 liters. A Nissan Qashqai, which has no sliding back row, always 455 cubic liters. Definitely he Nissan X-Trail in any of its configurations provides space and modularity, but it keeps the other qualities of his younger brother?

As we have said on other occasions, platform is the same as used the Qashqai, -of engines so far the 1.6 dCi 130 hp-, transmissions, security systems and much of the equipment adopts directly from him, so really, It has little to do with the previous Nissan X-Trail. So much so that their control you feel on board a Nissan Qashqai larger, not only by a similar feel, but also because The interior is almost a replica of it and hardly any noticeable changes. The field of view back, however, is somewhat lower and both the headrest and C pillars remain more visibility. This lack is partially mitigated in the case of the finish Tekna tested, as it is standard monitoring system using radar blind spot, although its indicator light located on the front pillar, not shine with excessive intensity and can go unnoticed. Less room for improvement has Forward Collision Warning, whose operation did not pose us no doubt acoustically alerting at the right time and with sufficient time to react, but without the "excess security" other manufacturers sometimes make you ignore and even disconnect the device. Other elements of equipment are interesting peripheral chambers, facilitating the task of parking, the smart key or the automatic parking brake. And do not forget the electrically operated tailgate, also standard, which besides being quite fast, You can be opened and closed by pushing a button next to the steering column.

Behind the wheel

Regarding behavior, Nissan X-Trail try to follow the path of Qashqai thanks to a reactive rear axle that provides flexibility and efficiency when necessary, well supervised by electronic aids to driving does not become demanding and guided by a precise steering. Sways slightly and gives confidence when approaching sections of curves, although, of course, weight hurts him and appear before the inertia and some drift tires, forcing us to slow down reminding us that this is a SUV and not a tourist, but unapologetic in its form to function. According to change the position of the selector between 2WD and AWD Auto reactions to certain situations are slightly different, especially when accelerating out of tight bends on asphalts poorly adherent.

In 2WD mode, if we are too optimistic with the throttle the front end must face all the available torque and may be saturated, forcing the electronic stability control to take measures so that the nose is not out of hand. Instead, selecting Auto mode virtually eradicates this understeer tendency root and any pull in the direction, and can accelerate unceremoniously in full support with full balance maintaining high neutrality.

The motor is excellent and no noticeable delay when the system sends power to the rear wheels, although as counterpart must take into account that this transmission increases the weight relative to the 4×2 versions about 170 kg, worsening performance and not always providing greater speed cornering or stability on dry asphalt, since, except the best traction speed cornering, other advantages typically associated with transmissions integrals are not as significant breakdown. Moreover, if we compare the unit tested with 4×2 we had the opportunity to drive a few days earlier, the mechanical response of the 4×4 version loses verve, it costs more up laps and come to light about Low somewhat weak when we drive in high gears and low speed city.

In front to Qashqai?

Moreover, compared to the first Nissan Qashqai which passed through our hands, touch the engine is somewhat less refined and perhaps by a specific programming switchboard to help save fuel and achieve good immediacy of response, both to stop accelerating and the reaccelerate is more abrupt. Similarly, the drive must change is less smooth, and the turn signal stalk, which is hard. It seems to be a fairly robust car, also because of a firmer suspension, especially in the rear, something that makes you uncomfortable, but also fails to stand out in terms of comfort.

Undoubtedly one of the best qualities of Nissan X-Trail is its ability to achieve very low consumption, fruit of the famous and efficiency of its engine 1.6 dCi Renault source, which it is combined in this case with a staggering successful developments. 1st, somewhat shorter, partly supplies the absence of reducing this todocamino, allowing certain licenses in addressing obstacles in unpaved runways. Below 50 km / h can be activated Lock all-wheel drive position, a sort of center differential lock that equals the power distribution between the front and rear axles. However, keep in mind that is not a pure and hard terrain, and has its limitations off-road, but as in this type of SUV, the driver’s skill can be decisive.

As family SUV meets the expectations of being a very practical car, but fails to offer as refined touch that can be found in a minivan 7 seats or in a Qashqai, despite sharing platform. 3rd row seat is suitable only for children and, together with all-wheel drive, adds extra weight that harms the dynamism of the 4×2 versions of the model.