The new Nissan X-Trail: 25 years of evolution, combining comfort and electrification

A quarter of a century on the market, four generations and over 8.1 million units sold worldwide. In 2025, the Nissan X-Trail reached a significant milestone, confirming its status as one of the longest-running models in the Japanese manufacturer’s range. Launched in 2000 with a design more akin to that of a rugged SUV intended for off-road use, it has undergone profound changes over the years, culminating in the current generation, available with e-Power and e-4orce technology.

That philosophy, however, has not been completely abandoned. The X-Trail continues to focus on versatility and its ability to take the family on journeys, with a configuration that can accommodate up to seven passengers. The main difference compared to the past lies in the way these features are achieved, with a strong emphasis on electrification and a focus on comfort.

The new X-Trial features e-Power, a system also used by Nissan in its Qashqai crossover. Unlike a traditional hybrid system, in this case the petrol engine does not transmit torque directly to the wheels: its role is to generate energy to power the battery and the associated electric propulsion system. Consequently, it is the electric motor that supplies the energy needed for the front wheels to ‘roll’ and, as a result, propels the vehicle without directly utilising the internal combustion engine. This results in a more immediate and progressive throttle response.

On models fitted with e-4orce, the electronically controlled all-wheel drive system also comes into play. The system controls the distribution of torque between the two axles and can intervene up to 10,000 times per second, ensuring absolute stability even when grip is poor, such as on wet or snow-covered surfaces. It is a solution that also changes the feel of the engine. There is no traditional sequence of gears as in a conventional gearbox, and the response is typical of a car powered by an electric motor. The X-Trail’s e-Power range also delivers 213 CV in the all-wheel-drive configuration. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 7 seconds, whilst the top speed is 180 km/h.

The evolution of the 2026 model is also reflected in its design. The front end has been updated whilst retaining Nissan’s signature styling. However, the front grille has been redesigned to form part of a cleaner V-Motion structure, flanked by diamond-cut trim and the new Universal Blue and Dark Beige colour schemes, also available in a two-tone version (with a black roof). At the rear, there are now new LED lights. The option to choose between a five- or seven-seat configuration (for an additional €1,000) further enhances the X-Trail’s versatility.