Going back just a few years, the Nissan lineup was starting to feel like it had been left on pause while the rest of the automotive world moved forward quickly. Vehicles like the Juke, Qashqai, X-Trail/Rogue and Pathfinder were all in desperate need of replacement. Luckily, Nissan finally hit the refresh button and rolled out new generations of these SUVs. Among these updates, the improvements made to the X-Trail stand out particularly noteworthy.

I had my first opportunity to drive the fourth generation X-Trail about 18 months ago and I was pleasantly surprised by what I found. At the time, we tested it in the Ti version, which was in the top half of a wide range of variants available in Australia. Few updates have been made to the local range since then, but a compelling new version is now on offer. Named N-Trek, it’s designed to be a little more robust and we recently spent a few days living with it.

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This isn’t the first time Nissan Australia has used the N-Trek nameplate on an X-Trail. THE previous generation model was offered in an N-Trek version, although it was limited to only 500 units. The changes made to it were also extremely minor and limited to new wheels, weather shields on the windows and a black hood protector. It is therefore not a desirable “limited edition”.

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Photo credits: Brad Anderson/Carscoops

Things are a little different with 2024 X-Trail N-Trek. This year, the automaker has fitted the new mid-range model with a revised front bumper that includes a faux skid plate and revised trim around the fog lights. Gone is the chrome surround of the grille and in its place is black trim. There are also several other black trims, including the exterior mirrors, pillars, roof and roof bars.

Nissan The design team also developed a new set of 18-inch alloy wheels for the SUV, which feature a combination of black and silver spokes. The new rugged look continues at the rear with a new bumper, and buyers can choose between several exterior colors, including Gun Metallic, Diamond Black, Ceramic Grey, Champagne Silver, and Ivory Pearl. Our test model was finished in Ceramic Grey, which suited the character of the SUV perfectly.

Nissan interiors have come a long way

The N-Trek is based on the ST-L in the X-Trail range, which itself sits above the entry-level ST. This means it lacks some of the features of the Ti we tested last year, but the cabin is still very well equipped and a huge improvement over the previous generation model.

Photo credits: Brad Anderson/Carscoops

Stepping into the cabin of the X-Trail N-Trek is a treat. Local prices start at AU$50,740 ($33,900), and the cabin seems well suited to this price point. Soft black leather adorned most surfaces of our test car’s interior, although the upper dash and door panels were trimmed in brown leather. All the important touch points feel premium, including the steering wheel, and it’s a welcome relief that Nissan has retained many of the physical buttons and switches.

In front of the driver is a 12.3-inch screen. This screen is bright and clear and can be configured to display plenty of driving data and efficiency information. There are several different options for the type of gauges you want to display and they are complemented by a brilliant 10.8-inch heads-up display.

In the center of the dashboard is a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. Although Nissan’s software is a little basic compared to some competitors, it is easy to understand and has been well thought out. Wireless Apple CarPlay is included as standard, but oddly only wired Android Auto support is available.

Two key features missing from the N-Trek, which we appreciated in the Ti, are a digital rearview mirror and a panoramic sunroof. However, I really liked the light-colored cloth headliner and the notable absence of piano black plastic on the transmission tunnel. In its place is a tougher plastic with a textured pattern that looks quite premium. Physical buttons and dials are used to control all important HVAC settings.

The cabin offers plenty of space, and even tall adults will find the second row comfortable. A small third row makes the X-Trail N-Trek a seven-seater, although those seats in the back are only suitable for children and far too cramped for adults. So buyers who need to regularly use a third row would be wise to opt for something slightly larger, like the next-generation Hyundai Santa Fe or Nissan Pathfinder. Adding a third row of seats adds AU$3,000 (~$2,000) to the price of the N-Trek. We recommend sticking with the five-seater version.

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All X-Trail N-Trek models come standard with Nissan’s ProPilot suite of driver assistance features, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane centering and road sign recognition. This system can be activated by pressing a button on the steering wheel and works very well on the highway. Aside from the rare occasion when the Nissan veered toward the edge of a lane, the automatic steering system kept us perfectly centered on the road during several highway trips.

Photo credits: Brad Anderson/Carscoops

What about the powertrain?

All 2024 X-Trail models sold in Australia come standard with a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder producing 181 hp (135 kW) and 244 Nm (180 lb-ft) of torque. However, the ST-L, Ti and the flagship Ti-L can be configured with Nissan’s e-Power setup, which includes a 1.5-liter three-cylinder and a hybrid system.

Although the 2.5-liter is the “base” engine and isn’t particularly powerful, it’s a good fit for a vehicle like the X-Trail. It is mated to a CVT transmission driving all four wheels. Before you start criticizing the choice of a CVT, know that it is very smooth and very quiet. I’ve been critical of CVTs in the past, but never during my time with the N-Trek did I crave a traditional car.

The engine can feel a little rough at full throttle, but in the vast majority of driving conditions it’s quiet and delivers solid performance. It’s not just the engine and transmission combination that impressed me. I also really liked the steering and handling of the X-Trail.

Photo credits: Brad Anderson/Carscoops

Vehicles like this can seem bulky and heavy. This is not the case with the Nissan. It uses twin-pinion electric power steering that is exceptionally light while remaining precise, reminding me of the steering feel found in current Volvo models. There’s virtually no feedback coming from the steering wheel, and that can be a problem if you’re trying to drive the X-Trail around corners. However, this is an SUV that will be driven sedately for 99.9 percent of its lifespan, and the light steering complements it well.

Nissan engineers also did a good job tuning the suspension. Although the N-Trek is marketed as a slightly more rugged version of the X-Trail, it has the same suspension setup as the standard model. That’s not a bad thing, as it absorbs bumps brilliantly whilst keeping you sure-footed. Our test car’s Bridgestone Alenza Sport A/S tires were also excellent, providing good grip with minimal noise.

Fuel efficiency is OK but nothing special. Nissan quotes 7.8 l/100 km (30.1 US mpg) on ​​the combined cycle, and we came close to matching that over nearly 300 km (186 miles) of driving, averaging 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg). An added advantage of the 2.5 liter is that it does not require premium fuel and will happily run on 91 octane.

Verdict

One of the X-Trail’s biggest selling points has long been its wide range of off-road capabilities and technology. All models come standard with Terrain modes which include an Off-Road and Snow setting. There is also hill descent control. We briefly tested the X-Trail on gravel and dirt trails and it felt perfectly at home there. Sure, it’s not designed for riding crazy mountain trails, but it can do some gentle off-roading without breaking a sweat.

Another advantage of the X-Trail is its towing capacity, which surpasses many of its rivals. It can carry up to 2,000 kg (4,409 lb) with a braked trailer and 750 kg (1,653 lb) without brake, enhancing its versatility and appeal to those who have an active lifestyle or need towing.

I continue to be impressed by the fourth generation Nissan X-Trail. Starting at AU$38,990 (~$26,000) and going up to AU$59,990 (~$40,100), it represents good value for money and is very well equipped considering the price. Anyone considering an SUV in this segment should give it some serious thought.

Photo credits: Brad Anderson/Carscoops