The closure of Nissan South Africa’s Rosslyn manufacturing facility may have cast a shadow over the brand in recent months, but it has also created an unexpected opportunity. Free from the financial burden of operating an underutilised production plant, Nissan appears to have repositioned itself to compete more aggressively on price, and the updated X-Trail is the first clear indication of this new strategy.
Rather than reinventing its popular family SUV, Nissan has focused on refining an already capable package while substantially improving its value proposition. The result is a more compelling contender in one of South Africa’s most fiercely contested segments.
Styling updates are subtle yet effective, with a revised V-Motion grille, redesigned front bumper, updated LED tail lamps and fresh alloy wheel designs lending the X-Trail a cleaner, more contemporary appearance. Inside, the cabin receives a welcome technology boost with a new 12.3″ infotainment display featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, complemented by wireless smartphone charging, Walk-Away Lock and Approach Unlock. Higher-spec derivatives also gain a head-up display and Nissan’s latest ProPILOT driver assistance technology.
REFINEMENT STILL LEADS
The launch route through and around the Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve provided an ideal opportunity to sample the X-Trail on urban roads, the N14 highway and several gravel sections. Across every surface, one characteristic stood out above all else – refinement.
Despite the growing influx of Chinese rivals, the X-Trail continues to hold a noticeable advantage when it comes to interior comfort, design, material quality and overall fit and finish. The cabin feels solid, thoughtfully laid out and reassuringly premium, while exceptionally low levels of noise, vibration and harshness reinforce the impression of a vehicle engineered to cover long distances in comfort.
Equally impressive is Nissan’s Xtronic continuously variable transmission. Unlike many CVTs, which tend to allow the engine to flare noisily under acceleration, the X-Trail’s transmission remains smooth and unobtrusive. In fact, its operation is so well calibrated that many drivers could easily mistake it for a conventional torque converter automatic.
Power continues to come from a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 135 kW and 244 Nm. While the absence of Nissan’s impressive e-POWER hybrid system is still disappointing, the drivetrain remains smooth, dependable and perfectly suited to everyday family duties.
STRONGER VALUE THAN EVER
The revised range comprises three derivatives. The entry-level 2.5 Visia 2WD Xtronic, priced at R599,900, comes generously equipped with LED lighting, dual-zone climate control, wireless smartphone integration and a comprehensive suite of safety features. The 2.5 Acenta 2WD Xtronic at R680,900 adds larger alloy wheels, a power tailgate, Around View Monitor and additional convenience features. In comparison, the flagship 2.5 Acenta Plus AWD Xtronic, priced at R770,900, further raises the bar with intelligent all-wheel drive, quilted leather-appointed seats, a panoramic sunroof, Bose audio, a head-up display and ProPILOT driver assistance technology.
All models are sold with a six-year/90,000 km service plan, three-year/30,000 km maintenance plan and six-year/150,000 km warranty.
LAST WORD
The facelift may not represent a complete reinvention, but perhaps it doesn’t need to. By combining improved technology, exceptional refinement and significantly sharper pricing, Nissan has transformed the X-Trail into one of the strongest value propositions in the segment. If this approach signals the direction Nissan South Africa intends to take going forward, the company may yet emerge from a challenging period in a stronger competitive position than many expected.
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © NISSAN SOUTH AFRICA
