Here it is, the new Nissan X-Trail. Nissan have tipped it as the perfect car for family adventures, and a threefold increase in X-Trail sales since 2014 seems to back up that statement and then some. We had to find out, and we think you should too, so here’s our quick but comprehensive review.

How Does It Look?

Overall, the exterior refresh hits the right notes. The facelift covers a more daring and aggressive exterior, and there’s even a new Monarch Orange shade of paint to help with personalization. It’s a touch longer and a tad taller, but city drivers will be happy to know that it isn’t much wider.

What Tech Do You Get?

Nissan has really brought their A-game when it comes to luxury and safety. The top-tier Tekna, which accounts for nearly half of all models purchased in the past, now offers:

  • Bose Speaker Sound System
  • Adaptive Headlights
  • DAB Radio
  • Heated Front and Rear Seats

Those seats can be trimmed in tan or cream shades of rich leather, and you’ll find the flat-bottomed steering wheel a little thicker for enhanced control.

How Does She Drive?

You’ll choose between a 126 bhp 1.6L turbocharged diesel, a 174 bhp 2.0L turbocharged diesel, and a 161 bhp 1.6L turbo petrol. Transmission options include six-speed manual for direct control or the effortless nature of CVT, and you’ll be able to select either front or four-wheel drive.

The more powerful diesel certainly motivates the X-Trail to perform with surprising vibrancy for such a large vehicle, and the vehicle remains remarkably relaxing to drive across all engine options. It changes direction comfortably, and you’ll cruise easily without having to exert too much pressure on the gas pedal. For a vehicle that probably won’t ever do much serious off-roading, it’s certainly capable of taking on anything from muddy slope to rock-laden trail.

That said, wind and engine noise isn’t kept at bay quite as effectively as it should be. The petrol engine isn’t quite as spirited as we’d like, but it does reduce the engine noise issue. Not a huge problem, but it would be nice to have high-end power without worrying about the sound.

Should You Buy One?

It’s not as adventurous as Nissan would have you believe, but it should satisfy most drivers. Of course, you could argue that a flagship SUV is a place for luxury instead of capability – if high-end opulence is what you’re seeking, the X-Trail might not be the best choice.