Nissan X-Trail officially launched from RM142,800 OTR

Here you have it folks, Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) has finally launched the all-new Nissan X-Trail here in Malaysia. Since pre-booking registrations opened in Malaysia last December, this new premium crossover from Nissan has gathered over 1,300 bookings.

The 3rd-generation X-Trail made its world debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, and was launched in Japan in January 2014. Currently one of Japan’s top-selling SUVs, it is available in the United States, Australia and across Europe, and has already been introduced in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Thailand to great success. Since its global launch early in 2014, Nissan has sold more than 250,000 units around the world, winning numerous awards in countries such as Indonesia, Mexico and in the UK.

The new Nissan X-Trail is available locally in two variants, 2.5L 4WD and 2.0L 2WD. The range topping 2.5L 4WD variant is powered with the QR25DE-k2 engine with Twin CVTC, providing maximum power output of 171 PS at 6,000 rpm and 233 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, while the 2.0L 2WD variant comes with the MR20DD engine with direct injection and Twin CVTC, capable of 144 PS at 6,000 rpm and 200 Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm. Both variants are mated to Nissan’s Next Generation Xtronic CVT with 7-speed manual mode, with ECO mode system.

It terms of overall looks, the aesthetics we commonly associated with the predecessor is now gone. Instead, the new X-Trail takes inspiration from the Qashqai, Juke and Murano. Besides adopting design cues from its siblings, the new X-Trail also sports a Boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights, the distinctive ‘V’-shaped Nissan grille and Rear Combination Lamp as standard feature for both variants. Meanwhile, the 2.5 4WD variant adorns LED Headlights with auto function and LED Wing Mirror Signal Lights. Roof Rails and 17-inch alloy wheels completes the overall striking and imposing appearance of the new X-Trail.

Inside, black finishing interior is present and the spacious interior has an option of 2 extra seats to make room for 7 passengers.

The all-new X-Trail’s diverse seating arrangement offers flexible space to suit both passengers and cargo. The 60:40 split folding seats allow you to load any type of luggage or equipment with a cargo capacity from 550-litres up to 1520-litres.

Other features that can be found in the new X-Trail are the Zero-Gravity Inspired’ Seats to help reduce fatigue, a best-in-class 5-inch Advanced Drive Assist Display (ADAD) for ease during driving, and a first-in-class 360° Around View Monitor for added parking convenience.

In keeping with the class leading standards set by the previous generation model, 2.5-litre variant X-Trail adopts Nissan’s advanced electronic four-wheel drive system, ALL MODE 4x4i. Controlled via a rotary switch on the centre console, it offers a choice between two-wheel drive, Auto mode or Lock mode offering permanent four-wheel drive.

In the ‘default’ Auto mode, the system constantly monitors throttle opening, engine speed and torque to anticipate wheel spin and to distribute torque between front and rear axles as needed, at speeds of up to 80 km/h.

Above that speed, the system reacts to wheel-spin, again shifting drive rearwards to restore traction as required. For tricky conditions and at low speeds, Lock mode gives new X-Trail permanent four-wheel drive, while drivers also have the option of a two-wheel drive only version.

In terms of safety, 3 new electronic systems have been designed to make life with X-Trail more comfortable and even safer: 2 are world firsts and a 3rd is currently found on the premium Infiniti M.

The two world firsts are Active Ride Control and Active Engine Brake. Active Ride Control monitors the road surface to detect undulations which could potentially upset the pitch of the car body and alters the damping to compensate. Active Engine Brake, meanwhile, harnesses the power and controllability of the Xtronic transmission to add a degree of engine braking while cornering or when decelerating to a standstill. The benefits are greater braking control and enhanced feel with less pedal effort.

The third system, pioneered in the premium segment, is Active Trace Control. By using on board sensors to monitor speed, steering angle, throttle opening and braking effort, Active Trace Control brakes wheels individually, as required, to reduce understeer and help the driver steer a safer path through bends: it is particularly effective on slippery, wet roads.

Finally a feature available in both variants, Hill Start Assist allows drivers to change pedals easily from the brake to the accelerator and carry out a safer hill start.

Additionally, Hill Descent Control – available in the 2.5L 4WD variant – controls the vehicle speed (between 4km/h -15km/h) when descending a steep or slippery hill without applying brakes, allowing drivers to focus on steering the vehicle.

Available in 5 distinctive colours namely Tungsten Silver, Titanium Olive, Diamond Black, Graphite Blue and Brilliant White, the on-the-road price for the Nissan X-Trail is RM142,800 OTR for the 2.0 2WD variant and RM165,800 OTR for the 2.5 4WD variant.