After two generations of boxy design for its compact-size SUV, Nissan’s designers found a way to make the X-Trail more aerodynamic and with softer lines.
The Renault-Nissan alliance worked together to build a new platform for their future models. The CMF (Common Module Family) platform served their interests and, in the autumn of 2014, the X-Trail was shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show, in Germany.

The vehicle’s design took some elements from Nissan Murano and Qashqai (Rogue Sport), adopted the new grille with chrome around it and a raked windshield for less aerodynamic noise and lower drag resistance. The headlights featured LED and a nice DRL line on higher trim levels. A panoramic glass roof was offered as an option.

Inside, Nissan installed up to 7 seats, but the last row is very small, especially for the legroom. Fortunately, the middle row could slide forward to make more room. For the driver, the dashboard got its inspiration from X-Trail’s smaller brother, the Qashqai, with big analog dials on the instrument cluster. The infotainment system was installed on the center console, at the same level with the steering-wheel making life easier for the driver.

The X-Trail was available with gasoline or diesel engines, with front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. For the transmission, depending on the engine, it was available with manual, CVT or automatic gearbox. It had an intelligent all-wheel-drive system, that could break the wheel with the smallest amount of grip, in order to improve traction on the wheels that could hold on to the ground.