Nissan X-Trail (01-07) - Review

Review by Parkers on
Last Updated: 05 April 2007
X-Trail is better in most areas than most of its rivals. It goes up against the Honda's CR-V and Land Rover's Freelander in the soft-roader category. It cuts the mustard against both of them on the road and has a good range of engines and trim levels. Standard equipment could be better for the price (but there again, so could that of its rivals).
3.5 out of 5

Performance

Originally launched with 2.0 petrol and 2.2 Di diesel engines. Both were adequate, though the diesel lacked power and refinement. The larger 2.5-litre petrol was added in late 2002 and the more modern 2.2 dCi replaced the 2.2 Di in December 2003. The 2.0 is a relaxed performer with excellent mid-range pull. The 2.2 Di engine is lively, but not quite as refined as German and French units. Go for the dCi unit if you can.

3.5 out of 5

Handling

X-Trail is surprisingly easy to drive for a large 4x4: it’s stable on the road, grips well and handles confidently. At speed, the steering is responsive, gearchanges are precise and the engines deliver good performance. The handling is heavy at low-speeds however, and drivers require surprisingly strong arms to park or manoeuvre the off-roader.