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Exceptional Value: Test Drive the All-New Dongfeng Nissan X-Trail Petrol Suv
Jun 27,2025
The all-new Nissan X-Trail transforms with the 1.5T VC-TURBO engine and a more rugged exterior, no longer relying on the previous model's “comfort” and “smoothness” for success. Through a more distinctive design and advanced technology, it aims to attract a new generation of consumers. Offering more practical space than traditional sedans, superior off-road capability, and driving performance comparable to its peers, the X-Trail has secured its place in the urban SUV market as a top choice for families.
Unlike the rounded exterior of the previous generation, the new X-Trail presents a more robust look, with split LED headlights that give it a youthful, refreshed appearance, completely overturning traditional perceptions of the X-Trail.
The front features Nissan's V-Motion 3.0 design, with a trapezoidal grille, mesh pattern, and wide chrome accents for a modern look. Split LED headlights are sleek, with high and low beams housed in air ducts, and round fog lights on each side of the lower grille. The side profile showcases dual waistlines, a floating roof, and bold black cladding with pronounced wheel arches. The rear retains the previous design but adds new LED taillights and a larger rear bumper, enhancing its rugged appeal.
The all-new Nissan X-Trail features a significantly upgraded interior with a floating LCD screen, touch controls, and an electronic gear shift, enhancing its tech appeal. The center console and upper door panels are wrapped in leather with white stitching, adding a luxurious feel. Leather also covers both sides of the central tunnel for improved leg comfort.
The top model includes a 12.3-inch full digital instrument cluster with an orange background, supporting multiple display modes and syncing with the center screen for multimedia and navigation. The 12.3-inch floating center screen offers touch operation and retains physical buttons and knobs for convenience. It’s equipped with the Nissan Connect 2.0 system, featuring over 60 functions, including voice and remote control, offering a tech edge over competitors.
The air conditioning panel uses knobs and physical buttons for easy operation. The top model includes a three-zone automatic climate control system with a rear panel, though its lower position slightly affects accessibility.
In terms of comfort, all models except the base variant come with lumbar support for the driver’s seat. The top model also offers three-level seat heating for the front seats. The panoramic sunroof is small but still provides sufficient light inside.
The all-new Nissan X-Trail features a complete overhaul of its powertrain, equipped with Nissan's latest 1.5T VC-TURBO three-cylinder variable compression turbocharged engine. This engine intelligently adjusts its compression ratio, balancing power and fuel efficiency. It delivers a maximum output of 204 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque, surpassing some 2.0T engines.
The performance is impressive, especially during acceleration, with responsive throttle and strong low-end torque, making it ideal for urban driving. The XTRONIC CVT has been further optimized, with an 8.2:1 gear ratio and a maximum torque capacity of 330 Nm. This improves both smoothness and transmission efficiency, providing faster and more direct power delivery.
The X-Trail also features the second-generation 4X4-i intelligent all-wheel-drive system, offering five modes: Off-road, Snow, Auto, Eco, and Sport. In Sport mode, the throttle becomes more responsive, and engine revs quickly increase to deliver strong performance. In Eco mode, throttle response is calibrated to enhance fuel efficiency.
The suspension system retains the front MacPherson and rear multi-link independent setup, with enhancements to the rear suspension for added rigidity. The chassis has a more substantial feel with a firmer setup, ideal for urban driving, while the steering remains light and easy to handle.
To reduce noise and vibration from the three-cylinder engine, the all-new Nissan X-Trail features extensive NVH improvements, such as double-layer laminated glass for the front windows, thicker engine bay insulation, and optimized engine and transmission structures. Both at idle and during driving, vibration levels are comparable to a four-cylinder engine, ensuring excellent smoothness.
In terms of space, the X-Trail continues to offer great comfort. A 178 cm tall driver has about two fists of headroom after adjusting the seat. The front door handle, with its sealed bottom design, is less practical, but the open storage compartment under the center console provides wireless phone charging and multiple USB ports. The front cup holders are large enough to accommodate bigger bottles, and the central armrest box is spacious with a separate coin holder.
In the rear, the same 178 cm tall tester enjoys four fingers of headroom and over two fists of legroom, offering ample space. The rear seat cushions are a bit short, which may cause discomfort during long rides, but the adjustable backrest helps alleviate it. The rear storage solutions are practical, with two cup holders in the center armrest.
The high-spec models feature a hands-free power tailgate. The opening is wide and well-organized, with excellent interior space. The rear seats fold in a 4/6 split, aligning nearly flush with the floor to maximize space flexibility. Large storage compartments on both sides of the trunk are perfect for storing tools.
Safety features include the ProPILOT advanced driving system and the NISSAN i-SAFETY intelligent safety system, offering full-speed adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic braking. Additional advanced features include intelligent follow-up, smooth braking, stationary vehicle detection, long-range collision warning, and throttle misstep correction. Adaptive cruise control can automatically start and stop with quick, responsive actions, while lane-keeping assist automatically detects lane markings and speed signs.
The X-Trail is also equipped with a 360-degree panoramic camera and rear-side collision warning, offering good image quality, though there’s room for improvement.
The all-new X-Trail impresses with its groundbreaking design, enhanced infotainment system, and improved driving quality. The core upgrade lies in the new 1.5T VC-TURBO engine, offering unparalleled acceleration while excelling in noise, vibration, and fuel efficiency. Although the engine's displacement limits its performance in some areas, and a few design details could be optimized, the innovation represents a bold and meaningful shift for the traditionally steady X-Trail lineup.
There are several reasons for choosing the top-spec model of the all-new Nissan X-Trail. Firstly, both Dongfeng Nissan and the X-Trail have a strong reputation, making it a natural first choice when considering a vehicle. Secondly, the common "buy new, not old" philosophy applies, as the new generation X-Trail outperforms older models in terms of design, technology, and safety.
Additionally, at a similar price point, the new X-Trail offers more features than other models in its class, with superior comfort and space. The 1.5T engine provides strong power and excellent fuel efficiency, making it an intelligent choice overall.
The key to choosing the top-spec model lies in its practical features. The HUD heads-up display and wireless phone charging are highly convenient, while the full digital instrument cluster and ambient lighting enhance the tech feel inside the cabin. Upgrades like the 19-inch wheels, front seat heating, and rear-seat independent air conditioning add to the comfort. Although the top-spec model is priced higher, its overall configuration and practicality make it an excellent value for money.
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