Such thoughtful touches give the X-Trail added practicality that very few rivals this size can match. With a starting price of £22,995, it is £2,600 cheaper than its predecessor but £1,755 more than the old Qashqai+2.

The engine range is simple – a single 1.6-litre 128bhp turbodiesel which manages 57.6mpg, according to the claimed figures. A 160bhp turbocharged petrol model will be added in 2015. Two-wheel drive is standard, but there is an electronic lockable all-wheel drive option available on all four trim grades for a £1,700 premium. A CVT auto transmission is an option on the 2WD cars.

 

High spec should allow dealers to compete against X-Trail rivals

The specification of entry-level X-Trail Visia models, expected to be in least demand, includes 17-inch alloys, LED daytime running lights, electronic parking brake, cruise control, Bluetooth and air-conditioning. A £495 Smart Vision Pack adds more safety technology, including front and rear parking sensors, lane departure warning and forward emergency braking. Move up a grade to Acenta and customers will get dual-zone climate control, automatic lights and wipers, a sunroof and leather steering wheel.

The higher-spec N-Tec or Tekna models are expected to be the bigger sellers, taking a combined 74% of X-Trail orders, according to Nissan GB’s forecast. N-Tec’s equipment includes roof rails, 19in alloys, digital radio, 360-degree parking cameras and Nissan Connect, a 7in touchscreen interface that controls navigation and entertainment systems, as well as allows occupants to access apps and social media on the move.

The Tekna adds further luxuries, including heated leather seats, LED headlamps and an automatic parking system.

With such levels of equipment, functionality and value, the new X-Trail should compete strongly against its rivals and prove itself a useful addition to any Nissan dealer’s stock.

 

What your customers will be reading about the x-trail

Auto Express

On first impressions, the X-Trail makes a great case for itself as a family-mover. Thanks to an all-new platform co-developed with Renault, the X-Trail has the most legroom in its class, and the rear doors open outward by more than 80 degrees.

Honest John

The X-Trail is not quite as practical as a traditional SUV, but it’s got more style and should prove to be more capable thanks to the option of all-wheel drive, seven seats and a reasonable 2,000kg braked towing weight. Some might think it’s too similar to the Qashqai to spend the extra money on, but it’s certainly worth a look if you demand a comfortable, easy-to-drive car with plenty of space.