8 February 2011
If it suits your needs, don't mind the shape and are looking to purchase a compact SUV, then we strongly recommend you visit your nearest Nissan dealer and take the new Diesel powered X-TRAIL for a drive.
It's a winner in more ways than one.
First up the engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission which most buyers prefer in this market segment, and provides a major advantage over other diesel competitors (many of whom can only offer a manual transmission at the moment). Furthermore, the vehicle itself is such an easy and uncomplicated drive.
Diesels are not suited to everybody; there's the noise factor, registration costs are higher, you need to pay Road User Charges and the retail price is often around two thousand dollars more than a petrol variant.
So you need to do the sums as to the benefits before making the change from petrol to diesel power. Where a diesel does win without question is in straight out fuel consumption but overall savings are normally only achieved when travelling over the average distance per year (15,000km's).
Then there are the lower tail pipe emissions with a diesel and particulate filter, not that one should feel guilty driving a new petrol vehicle, all new vehicles are achieving lower and lower emissions.
The X-TRAIL's common-rail injection 2.0 litre four cylinder engine, was developed in association with its alliance partner Renault and produces 110kWs of power.
While power is important most diesels are judged on their torque and their ability to deliver strong and sustained power at low engine revs. This engine does not disappoint with 90% of its peak torque (320Nm) available from 1750rpm.
Claimed fuel consumption is 8.1 litres per 100kms compared to the petrol versions (fitted with the constant variable transmission) 9.3l/100km.
The front end MacPherson strut suspension gets an upgrade to accommodate the heavier engine and the above average handling characteristics are well supported with the adoption of electric power steering.
One down side of the diesel X-TRAIL is its relatively low towing capabilities.
Towing is normally a strong point with diesel owners wishing to take advantage of the low down torque capabilities to tow reasonable loads. This model however is restricted to just 1350kg with a braked trailer. The lack of a transmission oil cooler is given as the reason. It's a shame there are no immediate plans to make this available as an accessory.
Two grades of the X-TRAIL dci are available (TS & TL),both feature front, side and curtain airbags, stability control and Nissans ALL MODE 4x4-i system which incorporates Hill Start and Hill Descent Control.
Other standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, a six-stack CD player, front fog lights and chrome door handles.
The top of the line TL model includes power adjustable leather seats, climate air-conditioning and a panoramic sunroof. A chrome front grill provides an easy way to identify the TL at a quick glance.
Prices start at $42,595 for the TS and reach $45,895 for the TL.