Overall Rating |  |
After the so-so Terrano, X-Trail is an eye-opener. It's a totally competent, purposefully styled medium 4x4 estate that's spacious, very family-friendly, good to drive, well equipped and attractively priced.
For
- Roomy, comfortable and family-friendly
- Generously equipped and solidly built.
- Safer than most medium 4x4 models
Against
- Rivals offer greater cabin refinement
- Engine noise on 2001-03 cars, especially diesels
- Trim is a bit cheap and lightweight
Road Test
X-Trail isn't as stylish or fashionable as Freelander, CR-V or RAV-4 but it's equally good - if not better, when prices are added into the equation. If getting the job done efficiently and cost-effectively matters more than style points or kudos, X-Trail is probably the answer.
The cabin is roomy, well laid out and generously equipped, with good room for five plus lots of luggage. Minor details and trim materials might not please everyone, but it's all very user-friendly. The driving position is good and the seats are comfortable and supportive.
Petrol engines of 2.0 (140bhp) and 2.5 litres (165bhp) are refined and quite quick, but for punchier and only slightly slower performance, buyers prefer the latest 2.2TD, with 40mpg economy. X-Trail makes a better tow car with this unit, too.
X-Trail is easy and quite light to drive, with accurate steering, not too much body roll and a fairly supple ride.
Need To Know
JD Power stars: 3
NCAP: 4
Worst Models: None
Replacement: 2010
Alternatives
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Star Ratings
Handling Comfort Quality & Reliability Performance Roominess Running Costs  Value for Money Stereo/Sat Nav |
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