It’s raining SUVs in India. The latest to make an entry is the Nissan X-trail. The recently launched vehicle will be sold through the CBU import route at three dealerships in Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai.
A short test drive reveals that the X-trail leaves other SUVs in the Indian market in its trail. The 2.2 litre turbo diesel units with common rail direct injection (136 BHP) is capable of coming up with three-digit speedo readings in timings that would be impressive even on a high-end sedan. The spirited acceleration with seamless power delivery and low decibels make driving a pleasure. The taut handling is comparable to a premium sedan.
The X-trail is an eager performer with a really gutsy, confidence inspiring handling that will constantly urge you to step on the throttle and keep your feet planted there. I would go so far as to say that the X-trail is certainly the best handling SUV in its range in India.
Measuring in at 4.4 metres, it may seem a little less formidable than some of the other SUVs it would be brushing fenders with. But the interiors space is ample and the appointments neat. What many a first-time user of the X-trail will find novel or may be a tad inconvenient (till you get used to it) is the placement of the instrument cluster in the centre instead of the more conventional behind-the-steering. But the chrome ringed instrument looks good and comes with a tacho and all the basics. As for luxuries, the premium model comes with leather upholstery, 6 CD changer, a panoramic sun roof, a cooled cup holder and all the frills you would expect in a premium SUV.
The X-trail will be sold in two trims: Comfort and Elegance. And just before you get the feeling that everything is just about right, let me reveal its weakest link. The price. The Elegance is priced at a whopping Rs 23.65 lakh ( on road, Delhi) while the Comfort is Rs 20.67 lakh, which isn’t small change either. And this what might go against the X-trail.