Skip advert
Advertisement

Nissan X-Trail

The new Nissan X-Trail retains all the traits that made the first version such a hit

Overall Auto Express rating

4.0

How we review cars
Avg. savings
£7,447 off RRP*
Find your Nissan X-Trail
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

The new X-Trail retains all the traits that made the first version such a hit. The rugged styling remains, while the family-friendly cabin benefits from better quality materials. Boot space has grown, while car-like handling makes the Nissan enjoyable to drive. For those who don't need the seven seats offered by some rivals, the X-Trail remains one of the best compact 4x4s you can buy.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Give the people what they want. That's the approach Nissan has taken with its latest X-Trail, listening to customers' demands to make minor improvements rather than sweeping changes.

As a result, if you take a look at the newcomer now that it's arrived in the UK, it doesn't seem too different. However, sharing its platform with the Qashqai crossover model, it's actually all-new - every panel is different, and it's longer, taller and wider.

The Qashqai influences continue inside, where there are plenty of cup holders, a large glovebox and a central dash-top cubby. Thanks to quality materials and a modern layout, there's a more upmarket feel than with its slightly workmanlike predecessor.

A larger luggage area is now enhanced by a removable false floor, under which is a hidden sliding drawer. As before, a low load lip and a boot area trimmed in wipe-clean plastic all add to the practicality. The new X-Trail retains the same dynamic approach of its forerunner, with its light controls meaning it's easy to drive, turns in sharply and has little body roll.

Feeling much more car-like than most other compact SUVs, it scores extremely well when it comes to handling agility and steering feedback.

Under the bonnet, the 2.0-litre dCi engine is also new. Available in 148 or 171bhp outputs, it delivers its power smoothly. While the less potent version we drove had some diesel clatter, refinement has certainly improved. The ride is comfortable on motorways, too, making the Nissan a relaxing cruiser. It's only around town that the suspension feels a little firm. The changes may not be that radical, but the X-Trail is now far better all round.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Nissan X-Trail

Nissan X-Trail

RRP £36,225Avg. savings £7,447 off RRP*Used from £21,700
Peugeot 5008

Peugeot 5008

RRP £48,760Avg. savings £4,171 off RRP*
KIA Sorento

KIA Sorento

RRP £41,375Avg. savings £3,765 off RRP*Used from £24,400
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £38,140Avg. savings £3,019 off RRP*Used from £11,995
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range
MG IM5 - Goodwood front

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range

The all-electric IM5 brings new technology and design to the MG line-up
News
10 Jul 2025
New MG Cyberster Black is a dark sign of things to come for the brand
Cyberster Black - front 3/4

New MG Cyberster Black is a dark sign of things to come for the brand

MG boss thinks special editions like this might be the ticket to keeping up demand for the electric sports car
News
10 Jul 2025
New Mazda CX-5 revealed with fresh looks, more space and far fewer buttons
Mazda CX-5 - front

New Mazda CX-5 revealed with fresh looks, more space and far fewer buttons

The Mazda CX-5 has been revolutionised to take on the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson
News
10 Jul 2025