Ask an expert
We are looking at new cars and cannot decide between the Nissan X-TRAIL and the Toyota RAV4.
In addition, there is discussion between the advantage/disadvantage between petrol and diesel models.
Can you please comment. .
Bob
From the "Ask Jack" archives - 25 January 2011
There is really very little between the RAV4 and the X-TRAIL apart from price.
Toyota’s in general do tend to hold their prices better based on their reputation for reliability over a long period. From our experience however, Nissan is a very underrated vehicle and is equally reliable.
Diesels have become less popular for many in recent times especially those who only travel short distances or don’t have the need to tow large loads. Diesels make great work horses and excel when there is a requirement for low down engine torque.
Overall running costs can actually favour petrol for several reasons. Firstly the diesel retail price is often dearer by several thousand dollars (compare the current RAV4 petrol v diesel prices), servicing can be more expensive and the annual registration is a lot higher because you are paying the ACC levy up front as opposed to a petrol vehicle where you pay per litre of fuel used.
Diesels are also subjected to Road User Charges and for some the smell of the fuel is off-putting as is the engine noise.
It really comes down to having a vehicle which is fit for purpose and for many a diesel ticks all the right boxes and for others they don’t. The higher the annual distance travelled per year the more beneficial diesel becomes. Their one big advantage is their better fuel consumption.
The diesel RAV4 is also not the same vehicle as the petrol; it is a European spec and has slightly different dimensions (smaller) and is only available with a manual transmission.
The petrol X-TRAIL has a CVT transmission which means the change patterns need a little getting used to so make sure you take all the vehicles for a good long drive.
The other vehicle we rate highly is the 2.0litre Nissan Qashqai which is front wheel drive only and not so expensive.
Toyota are known for offering heavy discounts so don’t be afraid to negotiate a good price if that’s the way you go.
I’m sure Nissans arm can also be twisted a little but possibly not quite so much.