Nissan has been focussing major efforts on spreading its reach across segments. At the bottom end it has been tasting success with the Datsun Redigo while the other end of the spectrum it will launch the GT-R supercar later this year. As a part of this plan it will also bring the next generation of the X-Trail SUV but this time in a hybrid guise and in the upper echelons of the D-segment. It had unveiled the car at the 2016 Auto Expo and now more details of the vehicle have been revealed.
This 2018 Nissan X-Trail gets an evolutionary design which means that it is instantly recognisable as being a part of the lineup but with all the latest Nissan design philosophy. It has moved from a sharp-edged, old school, boxy SUV to curvy and crossover in nature. Noticeable elements include the V Nissan grille, flared wheel arches, sloping roofline and large overhangs at both ends. It is 4.6m long with a wheelbase of 2.7m.
This X-Trail has been dubbed a hybrid which means its runs off two sources of motivation. The first and the primary one is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 140bhp and 200Nm of torque. Assisting this engine is an electric motor that produces the equivalent of 40bhp and 160Nm of torque taking the total output to 180bhp and 360Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via CVT. As is the case with any modern hybrid, you get regenerative braking, start-stop function and most importantly pure electric driving at low speeds.
In terms of features you get the usual stuff like climate control, touchscreen infotainment system, electrically adjustable front seats, leather upholstery and a plethora of storage spaces for both the first and second rows. The car also gets a smart opening option for the rear hatch. You also get a host of driver aids like hill start, vehicle dynamic control, active ride control and ABS.
We believe that Nissan will price this X-Trail in the range of Rs 30 lakh to Rs 36 lakh after including the Centre’s discount for hybrid cars. It is a niche product and will compete with Toyota Camry which is in a similar price range.
