Nissan will be launching the third generation X-Trail SUV at the 2016 Auto Expo contrary to the earlier speculations of the model arriving in the country later this year.
There has been a lot of conjecture related to the launch of the new Nissan X-Trail premium SUV in India ever since the last generation model was taken off shelves in 2014. While speculations were rife of the model coming later this year with a Diwali launch also part of the rumour, news now comes in that the Japanese manufacturer will be officially launching the X-Trail at the 2016 Auto Expo.
First revealed at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, the third generation Nissan X-Trail is built on the CMF-CD modular platform that also underpins the Qashqai and the all-new Renault Kadjar in the Renault-Nissan alliance. A seven-seater, the new X-Trail is leaps ahead of the old generation model, complimented with an urban styling, an abundance of new features and more frugal engine options. In terms of dimensions, the new X-Trail is 17 mm longer than its predecessor while the wheelbase is now extended by a healthy 76 mm. The ground clearance stands at a positive 210 mm.
Power options on the new generation Nissan X-Trail include a 1.6-litre diesel engine producing 130 PS and 320 Nm of torque along with a 2.0-litre oil burner and a 2.5-litre turbo petrol. The 1.6 diesel is said to be coming to India paired to only a CVT gearbox. The SUV is likely to be offered with AWD as standard. Talking about features, the X-Trail is quite loaded with tech including a 7-inch touchscreen Nissan Connect infotainment system, projector lamps with LED DRLs, multi-function steering wheel, auto climate control and a whole lot more.
The new generation Nissan X-Trail also comes with several electronic aids including Active Ride Control, Advance Hill Descent Control and Uphill Start Support in addition to ABS, EBD and multiple airbags. It is unclear at present if Nissan will be bringing the SUV via the CBU route as speculated earlier or will locally assemble the model to keep prices in check. In either case, volumes can’t be optimistic but the X-Trail will act as a brand builder for the company’s frail image.
We have seen the new Nissan X-Trail in Japan and also sat in the car to judge the quality and space on offer, the vehicle does have what it takes to sell in good numbers with loads of interior room and plenty of equipment. However, the pricing will be a huge stumbling block in the success of Nissan’s SUV in the highly competitive space.
Source – Overdrive.in
