Driven: 2017 Nissan X-Trail Tekna Review
I took the 2017 Nissan X-Trail Tekna for a test drive. Here’s what I found out:
What is the 2017 Nissan X-Trail Tekna All About?
The new X-Trail has been hugely updated for the 2017 model release. This includes its exterior design, greater cabin refinement, more practicality and innovative new technologies underneath.
Nissan has decided to spruce up the boxy looking second-generation X-Trail by borrowing cues from elsewhere in the brand. At the front of the car is the signature Nissan V-motion front grille. It’s much wider than before, less subtle, and adds a touch of fierceness to the car.
Overall, it follows sharp but dynamic lines, providing a good side profile, while the rear is finished off with a chunky tailgate and modern tail LED lamps. Worth mentioning are the additional roof railings and 19-inch alloys that came with our spec, the Tekna. It’s a trendy adventure look, keeping in line with today’s SUVs.
At the moment there are two types of diesel and one petrol engine to choose from. Our model is the 2.0-litre diesel which boasts the most horsepower with 177 hp and 380 Nm of torque.
We drove the 4WD variant with a 6-speed manual transmission. The weight is kept relatively low, at roughly 1.4 tons, so the car completes the 0-62 mph mark in just 9.4 seconds. At full throttle, you’ll get to a top speed of over 120 mph. Our variant also nets 48.7 mpg combined and puts out 153 g/km of CO2.
How Does it Drive?
Remember this is a family-orientated adventure car, not a Nismo race vehicle. At first, the engine enjoys being pushed, so the powerband is focused around 3,000 rpm, with enough clout to move the car around happily. I found myself shifting gears more often to make sure I kept in the usable power band and to make the most of the efficient engine. The car packs a punch with 380 Nm torque so overtaking is a dream.
The X-Trail is also sound-proofed, with interior noise kept to a minimum. Even at 70mph, you can make a hands-free phone call without being drowned out by road noise. On twisty terrain, for a car this size, you’d be surprised at how well it takes the corners.
You may have noticed from these images that when you run out of tarmac, the X-Trail is capable of going off-road, if you’re feeling adventurous. The car has a high ground clearance with great approach angles at the front and back so going over obstacles is no problem. The 4WD variant gives you the ability to lock the diff so you have even more grip when the going gets tough.
Safety-wise, our test car was kitted out with adaptive front headlights, blind spot warning, forward emergency braking, lane departure warning plus many more features, – the list just goes on. The safety of passengers is paramount when driving this vehicle.
After taking the latest X-Trail for a spin, I’d recommend it for a long road trip with friends or family. It’s a car that lasts the distance and the latest model is the best example yet.
What is it Like Inside?
Our test model Tekna spec was very spacious with nicely covered leather seats, a chunky flat-bottomed steering wheel, new soft-touch areas above the glove box and a new a knee rest either side of the gearbox.
Our vehicle also came with two additional seats (making a total of seven), however, these are designed for children. With the extra seats in the boot, the cargo space is limited at 135 litres. However, if you recline the seats, you get 445 litres of boot capacity. If you need more, the rear seats fold as well, to give you an incredible 1,996 litres of space.
One feature that will certainly please all the passengers, is the panoramic roof that fills the cabin with light and allows those in the back to take in their surroundings. Perfect for a long drive.
Experience
Getting to know the latest version of the X-Trail left me yearning to own it. The 2.0-litre engine makes every mile effortless and it shifts seamlessly to off-road terrain.
The Verdict
Nissan have geared this car as the weapon of choice for adventurers and it delivers on all of those points. Furthermore, the 2017 Nissan X-Trail is family-friendly, very practical and perfectly suited to on- and off-road travel. The spacious interiors suit the hectic pace of modern life. In Tekna spec, all the clever technology keeps the car bang up to date. All this and an appealing price too! What are you waiting for? Get your order in today!
Specification
- Price: £37,705
- Engine: 2.0-litre Diesel dCi
- Power: 177 bhp
- Torque: 380 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- 0-62mph: 9.4 seconds
- Top speed: 124 mph
- Weight: 1,625 kg
- Economy combined: 48 mpg
