More solid evolution than radical revolution, but Nissan has succeeded in making a more usable mid-size SUV for modern families
The 2023 Nissan X-Trail is popular with Nissan customers around the world and is a solid value for family mid-size SUVs. And not only did it change its skin, but it became based on the new CMF-C crossover platform, and the Qashqai and Mitsubishi Outlander cars share it, it is the same platform on which the Japanese trio is based, and the new platform is the result of the Renault, Nissan and Mitsubishi alliance.
Pricing · Nissan X-Trail ST 2WD five-seat: $36,750 (+$4085)
Previously the Nissan X-Trail was a boxy off-roader, the 2023 Nissan X-Trail is significantly higher and longer than the Qashqai, and there is an optional third row of seats. To accommodate seven seats. Fit a family oriented car. It is an attractive enough family car. Like the exterior design, the interior has received a comprehensive redesign that combines modern technology with enhanced functionality.
The Nissan X-Trail SUV is essentially a larger version of the Nissan Qashqai, with additional body length allowing you to specify it with an optional extra pair of rear seats. The Qashqai has recently been replaced by an all-new model that features hybrid technology. Nissan has already revealed what the 2023 Nissan X-Trail will look like at Auto Shanghai. This all-new model now allows all doors to be opened by touch, as long as you have the Smart Key in your pocket, and when you are carrying children. The power tailgate is motion activated.
The exterior design of the Nissan X-Trail 2023
Like the Qashqai, it has been given a facelift recently. There are no drivetrain upgrades to speak of, which means the biggest change is the new front end, which includes the Nissan “V-motion” grille (similar to the new Qashqai and Micra), and the new headlights on the Nissan X-Trail are the most affordable and one of the LED type. The exterior design is recognizable as a recent evolution of the 2023 Nissan X-Trail, though it’s 38mm shorter and 5mm lower.
The same design narrows the smooth lines of the previous model but might appeal to Transformer movie fans. LED headlights are now standard across the range, with upper trims also including LED fog lights. Aerodynamic improvements include active mesh shutters. Where the Nissan X-Trail 2023 has advanced aerodynamics, it’s a smarter way to glide through the air, as aerodynamic panels around the pillars and a low aerodynamic undercarriage deliver a quieter ride and reduce fuel consumption.
Details of the next generation Nissan X-Trail have been officially laid out in Japan and are expected to be released early next year. The rear section has also been redesigned, although the effect is less shifted aft. There aren’t any major changes, and changes to the cabin are mainly limited to a new, thicker steering wheel and the use of nicer materials all around. The 2023 Nissan X-Trail doesn’t stray from the midsize SUV standard, and the suspension uses MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link in the rear, with anti-roll bars at both ends.
Interior cabin design of the 2022 Nissan X-Trail
The major update to the interior is the electronic gear selector, accompanied by additional storage space directly below it, while the armrest uses a butterfly cover in place of the hinged rear cover. With its higher roofline and extra hoop over the Qashqai, the 2023 Nissan X-Trail looks beautiful. And it is, for the most part.
Even with the changes in the facelift. In terms of good design, even with Nissan’s claims of more “premium” materials, the surfaces and switchgear aren’t too luxurious, however, they’re slick and dependable.
Driving position and dashboard in the 2022 Nissan X-Trail
All models have a height-adjustable driver’s seat, as well as adjustable reach and steering wheel grip. Driver seat with adjustable lumbar support as standard. The 2023 Nissan X-Trail provides a comfortable driving position for most people, with frequent and easy communication with the center console.
The dashboard of the 2023 Nissan X-Trail is clear and logically designed, with controls placed within easy reach. The buttons and switches are all large and easy to operate while driving, as well as being positive and precise in their performance.
Vision and sensors in the 2023 Nissan X-Trail
The 2023 Nissan X-Trail’s elevated driving position and wide windshield provide good forward visibility, though thick door mirrors can obscure your view at intersections. But even with those large mirrors, rear visibility isn’t great, due to the relatively high rear screen and lumpy rear pillars. However, you will get front and rear parking sensors and a parking camera.
Infotainment and navigation system in the 2022 Nissan X-Trail
Depending on the trim level, the driver enjoys a customizable digital instrument panel in either 7.0-inch or 12.3-inch size, and a large head-up display is also available on top models. The front row is dominated by a 9.0-inch touchscreen that lives above the dashboard and is equally accessible to both driver and passenger. The infotainment system also supports Bluetooth, Apple Wilde and Android Auto, and a wireless phone charger is available on higher trim levels.
The infotainment is controlled via a touchscreen, but it’s not as good a system as the one in the Skoda Kodiaq or Mazda CX-5, because it’s slower to respond to commands and its icons are a bit smaller, though it’s more functional to use. On the plus side, satellite navigation and phone mirroring are standard, and there are physical shortcut keys around the screen, so you can quickly switch between key functions. The button that completely turns off the screen is useful for driving at night.
A touchscreen with Google Connect can be optioned, as can a new, custom-tuned eight-speaker Hifi system. The stereo sounds very good, but the infotainment system that controls it feels dated and cheap next to the class of best.
The quality of materials in the interior of the Nissan X-Trail 2023
The cabin of the 2023 Nissan X-Trail is reasonably compact. The dashboard uses soft-touch plastics and contrasting silver highlights, but you’ll notice some flimsy plastics around the door pockets, and you’re greeted by an annoying squeal when you close the door. This makes the car feel lower than its competitors.
The materials in the back of the car are more durable than they are in the velor, but you won’t find any exposed metalwork or sharp edges, even if you make a concerted effort to look for them.
The spaciousness and spaciousness of the Nissan X-Trail 2023
The 2023 Nissan X-Trail has less headroom than its main competitors. Although there is plenty of legroom even for tall passengers. Good door opening and high seating make the 2023 Nissan X-Trail a good entry-exit option. And the two fixed cup holders in the center console can hold large coffee cups completely securely. The door bins and glove box are also a good size and the deep center compartment features a USB port, so it’s perfect for phone storage.
In terms of rear space, the center section of the rear seat flips down to form an armrest, and is equipped with two fixed cup holders. Back seat access is also very good, and legroom is very good. On the negative side, the standard panoramic glass sunroof affects the headroom, while the optional third-row seats can be described as “accidental” and are suitable for children.
Nissan X-Trail 2023 car seats
The 2023 Nissan X-Trail’s second-row split is 60/40, and the seats slide, creating more trunk space, of course, at the expense of leg room. The optional third-row seats easily lift out of their place and drop flat to the floor of the luggage compartment.
Luggage box of Nissan X-Trail 2023
The 2023 Nissan X-Trail’s luggage compartment isn’t best in class, and it can fit eight carry-on bags inside. A nice touch is that part of the boot floor can be raised and opened in an upright position, and the load area is extended and flat when all seats are folded down, making it easier to slide in long, challenging loads.
2023 Nissan X-Trail engine
For now, only one engine and transmission is available, an evolution of the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine. With more power than before, torque has also been increased to 245 Nm, an increase of 8 Nm. Nissan’s Xtronic continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is standard on both front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations, with paddle shifters simulating gear shifts.
Nissan didn’t mention manual transmission or diesel engine offerings, and in some international markets, Nissan has announced a turbocharged 1.5-liter, three-cylinder petrol engine, which is said to be similarly powerful to the 2.5-liter, but more fuel efficient. We did not confirm the introduction of the new Nissan E-Power hybrid drivetrain, a system that differs from the conventional hybrid powertrain. The petrol engine plays a special role as it is used exclusively to charge the battery, which in turn powers an electric motor connected to the front axle.
The all-wheel drive system uses an electro-hydraulic controlled clutch to transfer torque to the rear axle and this new system is said to be more responsive than the outgoing X-Trail. The front driver includes Eco, Standard, and Sport driving modes, and the X-Trail all-wheel drive system adds off-road and snow settings.
Driving impressions of the 2023 Nissan X-Trail
There are no changes in how the 2023 Nissan X-Trail drives. It’s still a perfectly adequate family car, with a suspension built for a soft, supple ride that’s comfortable even on rough road surfaces. And indulge in light off-road driving even with front-wheel drive, capable of absorbing ruts and bumps. There is a system that applies pressure on the brakes during turns and over big bumps to increase the car’s responses, and it can drive better than all its competitors. Especially off-road.
The manual gearbox was reasonably slick and allows you to keep the engine in its most efficient rev range, and now an optional CVT automatic transmission is available instead of the conventional one. And if you’re buying the 2023 Nissan X-Trail for perfectly reasonable purposes or family trips, it might just fit you.
Steering in the 2023 Nissan X-Trail
Electric power steering uses a rack-mounted assist unit, assistance varies depending on vehicle speed and the steering ratio is slightly faster than previous versions of the Nissan X-Trail. The brakes are four-wheel ventilated discs and the ABS is a four-channel system. And on the road, you don’t need all-wheel drive.
Keep the 2WD mode selector dial and you’ll never feel like you’re out of control. Even if you’re going off-road or towing stuff behind you, 2WD mode, decent tires and judicious use of the throttle are all enough to get you through steep inclines and gravel.
The speed of the Nissan X-Trail 2023
The 2023 Qashqai and X-Trail share the same engine, and it hesitates when moving this heavy car from a standstill, and you need to push the accelerator hard before it springs to life.
And when the 2023 Nissan X-Trail is in motion, it pulls surprisingly powerfully due to its relatively small footprint and shows a genuine willingness to rev up aggressively, and the standard dual-clutch 7-speed automatic transmission is relatively helpful with performance and response to requests for acceleration.
Suspension and ride comfort in the 2023 Nissan X-Trail
I noticed the 2023 Nissan X-Trail bouncing a bit over the big potholes. She takes a few minutes to regain her composure. The sharp-edged bumps in the middle of the corners also cause it to slam and shudder too, and it’s only really stable on highways, if the surface is smooth.
You can make the most of choosing the 2023 Nissan X-Trail with 17-inch wheels, and avoid the larger 19-inch wheels, as they exacerbate riding problems.
Handling and stability in the Nissan X-Trail 2023
The 2023 X-Trail’s soft suspension causes it to lean hard in corners, and its sluggish steering means you have to turn the wheel a long way, even in shallow corners.
And the 2023 Nissan X-Trail feels somewhat behind the times, lacking the composure of the latest seven-seater SUVs like the Skoda Kodiaq and Peugeot 5008.
Noise and vibration in the Nissan X-Trail 2023
The 2023 X-Trail’s engine is reasonably quiet and doesn’t send too much vibration through the steering wheel, while the dual-clutch gearbox shifts smoothly through its ratios and keeps revs low where possible.
Unfortunately, the 2023 Nissan X-Trail generates a lot more wind and road noise at 70 mph—it’s noisier than competing SUVs.
Value for price in the 2023 Nissan X-Trail
When comparing equivalent engines and models, the X-Trail looks competitively priced next to the Skoda Kodiaq. However, the Kodiaq is expected to hold more of its value and offer a wider choice of engine power options.
Equipment, options and extras for the 2023 Nissan X-Trail
The 2023 X-Trail is the only model with N-Design, but it’s well-equipped, and gets all the previously mentioned infotainment features, plus cruise control, dual-zone climate control, and a hands-free power tailgate.
Shorter people will also appreciate the standard panoramic glass sunroof, which gives the interior an airy feel, though it really eats into headroom.
Nissan X-Trail 2023 Reliability
The Nissan X-Trail was awarded a five-star safety rating in 2017, when the model was updated with Autonomous Emergency Braking. The classification now applies to all versions except those with the 2.0-litre diesel engine. ANCAP also noted that third-row passengers do not have access to the airbags or seat belt reminders.
The 2023 Nissan X-Trail scored 14.68 out of 16 points in the frontal stability test, achieved perfect marks in the side and pillar crash tests, and was judged to provide “acceptable” pedestrian protection. It comes with six airbags as standard and is equipped with a surround-view camera and parking sensors front and rear.
Features of the Nissan X-Trail 2023
- The interior design is good
- Offers flexible storage spaces
- Full suite of safety technologies
Disadvantages of the Nissan X-Trail 2023
- ProPilot’s self-driving technology needs refinement
- Automatic climate control needs more refinement
- The exterior design is not impressive
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