SUVS ARE RAPIDLY JOINING the increasing list of electric vehicles on offer to Australian buyers, and the latest is Nissan’s all-new, fourth-generation X-Trail e-POWER with e-4ORCE (see what we mean about “silly names”?)
Nissan’s most technologically advanced SUV to date delivers a true EV-like drive experience without ever needing to plug in.
Unlike conventional hybrid systems, Nissan’s innovative e-POWER technology delivers a constant EV-like drive experience, thanks to the driven wheels being powered only by the electric motors, so response is always instant, linear and smooth.
“This is a true best-of-both world’s solution, delivering the smooth and immediate acceleration of an EV, only without ever needing to plug in,” says Nissan Australia Managing Director Adam Paterson.
“The Nissan X-Trail e-POWER with e-4ORCE isn’t an evolution of an ICE powertrain, it’s a true bridge to Nissan’s fully electrified BEVs, like the LEAF or Ariya, delivering an EV-like drive experience, along with the confidence to travel as far as you need to.”
“But efficiency doesn’t come at the cost of excitement. This is a premium SUV that delivers plenty of driving fun, along with all the technology and practicality on offer across the entire all-new X-Trail family.”
Designed to act as flagship models in the X-Trail range, the e-POWER with e-4ORCE powertrain is available on the generously equipped X-Trail Ti and Ti-L trim levels. (seniordriveraus will be testing the new X-Trail Ti later in March)
While two-wheel-drive versions are available overseas, Australia will exclusively take e-4ORCE twin-motor all-wheel-drive variants, in keeping with the model’s flagship standing in the X-Trail range.
The electrified X-Trail family begins with the Ti e-POWER with e-4ORCE ($54,190 plus on road costs), followed by the top-of-the-range X-Trail Ti-L e-POWER with e-4ORCE ($57,190 plus on road costs). Both models represent a $4200 premium in recommended price over the equivalent ICE-powered variants, and both are offered exclusively in five-seat configurations.
The X-Trail Ti e-POWER with e-4ORCE is packed with premium features, including genuine leather-accented seating, 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, LED turn signals, a Smart Rear View Mirror, tri-zone climate control, Adaptive Driving Beam, auto wipers and power-operated rear tailgate. The technology offering is also significant, with a 12.3-inch, navigation-equipped touchscreen, a 10.8-inch Head-Up Display, wireless phone charging and wireless Apple CarPlay, and a 12.3-inch TFT digital driver display.
The flagship model in the X-Trail range, the Ti-L e-POWER with e-4ORCE, furthers the luxury story, featuring a heated steering wheel, Bose 10-speaker sound system, quilted Nappa leather-accented~ seats with memory seat function, rear sunshades, hands-free rear tailgate, heated rear outboard seats, remote engine start and more.
What is e-POWER?
The X-Trail’s e-POWER with e-4ORCE system consists of a high-output 2.1kWh battery integrated with a turbo-petrol engine, power generator, inverter and twin electric motors (150kW front axle, 100kW rear axle with a combined system output of 157kW).
This unique and future-facing powertrain means that power to the wheels comes only from the electric motors, which results in instant, linear response to the accelerator, and impressive fuel efficiency of just 6.1L/100km (combined).
The power for the electric motors and battery is generated by a highly advanced variable compression turbocharged petrol engine which runs quietly in the background to feed the battery, which then supplies power to the electric motors via an inverter.
The engine is compact and lightweight, and is engineered to deliver high torque from low RPMs. The X-Trail’s 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine acts as the perfect generator.
The unique element of e-POWER is that the petrol engine is used solely to generate electricity, while the wheels are completely driven by the electric motor. This means the engine can always run within its optimal range, leading to superior fuel efficiency in urban settings.
Under heavy acceleration, and when the battery is low, the petrol engine will deliver power not just to the battery, but to the electric motors, ensuring consistent acceleration no matter the battery status or driving conditions.
Thanks to the pure electric motor drive, there’s no delay as with an internal combustion engine or traditional hybrid. The instant response delivers exhilarating high torque feel and agile acceleration to make overtaking or merging onto a highway easier and more confidence-inspiring.
Integral to the design of the e-POWER installation is the linear tune, which governs the operation of the petrol engine, ensuring that it’s spinning at an appropriate speed relative to road speed, avoiding the “rev-up” effect of traditional hybrids under hard acceleration.
A secondary benefit is the refinement it brings, ensuring the engine is running only at the speed it needs to, which is typically low in urban and suburban conditions.
The X-Trail’s EV Mode allows a near-silent EV-like drive experience at much higher speeds (up to 100km/h) than conventional hybrids, while a twist-dial Drive Mode Selector provides five driving modes – Off-Road, Snow, Auto, Eco and Sport.
In addition to these benefits, the e-POWER drive system guarantees a quiet drive, for example at 40 km/h the sound in the car reduces significantly when compared to ICE-powered variants.
What is e-4ORCE?
A new all-wheel-drive system designed to work exclusively with Nissan’s electrified powertrains is introduced on the all-new X-Trail e-POWER, with e-4ORCE delivering reassuring traction and confident acceleration in all conditions thanks to Nissan’s most advanced AWD technology.
The “e” in e-4ORCE signifies that the system was developed to work solely with Nissan’s electrified powertrains. Indeed, it will also be offered on Nissan’s 100 percent electric Ariya.
The powerful dual e-motor system has a total output of 157kW thanks to the addition of the rear motor, which allows for keen acceleration, with a zero-100km/h time of just 7.0 seconds. It also has a rear torque response that is up to 10,000 times faster than a mechanical 4WD system.
In addition, the constant torque redistribution, including torque vectoring side to side, and near-perfect weight balance contribute to reassuring handling and ride comfort, enabling a powerful yet smooth, driving experience.
With power distributed almost instantly according to the prevailing conditions, the driver and passengers will be unaware of the system working to maximise traction and control. Indeed, the system will be working even in apparently benign conditions.
The e-4ORCE twin-motor all-wheel-drive system delivers reassuring traction and confident acceleration in all conditions. The system doesn’t just unlock capability, but also delivers better grip, traction and turning ability, enhancing ride and handling.
By specifically managing power output and braking performance for each wheel, e-4ORCE sends power to the outer wheels in a turn, ensuring agility and stability, which results in the vehicle tracing the intended driving line. This advanced traction management is constantly active, giving stability and traction in all driving scenarios, such as damp, muddy, oily, icy and snowy roads.
Engineers fine-tuned the precision control technology and twin electric motors of e-4ORCE to provide unparalleled ride comfort. Vehicle pitch and dive are reduced by adding regenerative braking via the rear motor.
In addition to optimising front and rear torque allocation, the system applies independent brake control at each of the four wheels to maximise the cornering force generated by each one. This delivers cornering that faithfully follows driver intentions with minimal steering adjustments.
Key benefits:
- e-4ORCE delivers faster take off
- Linear engine tuning matches acceleration with RPMs, eliminating rubber-band feeling
- Constant torque redistribution and near-perfect weight distribution (51.8% F 48.2% R)
- Dual regenerative braking from front and rear motors
- Stable acceleration and braking, with the vehicle remaining flat
- Torque distributed front or rear to maximise grip
- Individually controlled braking
- Up to 10,000 times faster than mechanical 4WD systems
One-pedal driving: What is e-Pedal Step?
Given the majority of the X-Trail’s driving time is expected to be in urban areas, Nissan developed an entirely new ‘one pedal’ driving experience called e-Pedal Step.
Designed to take the repetitive strain out of stop-start urban driving, where the driver is frequently moving their foot between the accelerator and brake, e-Pedal Step allows drivers to accelerate and brake using only the accelerator.
The system must first be activated by the switch on the centre console and once engaged — at speeds above 10km/h — the accelerator will deliver acceleration as usual. Upon release of the accelerator, e-Pedal Step will brake the X-Trail at 0.2g, enough to illuminate the brake lights, and reduce the speed down to a “creeping” speed, not a complete stop. This ensures low-speed parking manoeuvres are as smooth as possible.
Outside of the city, when Sport mode is activated, the e-Pedal Step helps deliver a more exciting, and more engaging, drive experience, allowing the driver to slow or accelerate using only one pedal, without having to use the brake.
Dressed to impress: X-Trail e-POWER with e-4ORCE design
Central to X-Trail’s appeal over the previous three generations has been its distinctive styling which projects a reassuring sense of solidity and robustness, without being overly aggressive.
Both the exterior and interior of the new X-Trail reflect the spirit of the vehicle – versatile and adventurous. The exterior is highlighted by signature Nissan design elements such as the floating roof and V-motion grille — while a unique grille treatment applies to e-POWER models.
The frontal aspect is framed by striking headlights that appear moulded within the bodywork of the front bumper, with combined daytime running lights and indicators nestled along the shut-line of the hood.
From the side, muscular wheel arches at the front and rear give the X-Trail presence on the road, while at the base of the doors, an inset feature brings a sense of fluidity to the sheer surfaces of the doors.
The shape of the C-pillar is reminiscent of a dolphin fin, bringing tension to the rear where the wrap-around lights complete the rear three-quarter aspect.
From behind, a taut horizontal line sits just above and below where the number plate is mounted, while split rear lights ensure a wide aperture for the boot. A silver panel curves under the rear bumper, reflecting X-Trail’s adventurous character.
Key aerodynamic features include “3D” tyre deflectors in the lower front fascia, an active grille shutter to control air flow into the engine compartment, special A-pillar shaping, underbody covers to manage air flow under the vehicle and a unique “air curtain” that precisely directs air flow from the front to the sides of the X-Trail.
X-Trail e-POWER models are available in eight striking exterior colours, including Scarlet Ember, included as standard, as well as Diamond Black, Brilliant Silver, Gun Metallic, Caspian Blue, Champagne Silver, Ceramic Grey and Ivory Pearl (all a $700 premium). For further personalisation, customers can pair Ivory Pearl, Caspian Blue, Sunset Orange, Ceramic Grey and Champagne Silver with a striking Black Roof (all a $1200 premium).
Premium from the inside out
The cabin of the all-new Nissan X-Trail sets a new segment standard for elevated ambience, distinctive design and enhanced usability.
Advanced Nissan Intelligent Mobility technologies are at the driver’s fingertips, with comfort and quality in every touch. New premium materials, smart features and considered detailing enhance a cabin that delivers cutting-edge design and practicality in every dimension.
Extensive attention has been paid to the ergonomic and tactile quality of the switch gear and buttons to give them a high-quality feel. Customer research has clearly shown customers’ preference for easy-to-use core functions, so the X-Trail has simple, intuitive heating/air-conditioning controls, as well as buttons that govern the central screen functions, such as audio and navigation.
The top level of the floating centre console layout features the e-shifter, the drive mode selector and twin cup holders, as well as the 15w wireless charge pad for smartphones. The charge pad actively charges your phone, rather than simply maintaining your battery level.
There is a combined elbow rest for front-seat occupants, which has a “butterfly” opening, to reveal a cavernous storage space for valuables. The side opening elements allow easy access to the storage area for rear-seat passengers, unlike a rear-hinged lid.
Underneath, the upper tier of the floating console is storage for items such as a handbag or tablet. Making it easier to store smaller items and creating optimal space usage because in a family car you can never have enough storage.
Creating a reassuring and calming environment, new white ambient lighting is used throughout the cabin, with its uniformity giving a premium and harmonious impression.
Practically perfect and endlessly flexible
To make it easier to load items, install a children’s seat, or get comfortable in the car, the access to the second-row seats is now even more accessible due to the rear passenger doors opening to 85 degrees.
Second row passengers are well catered for with dedicated controls for the heating/air-conditioning system, taking care of occupant comfort, which is vital in a family car.
A key component to ensure a harmonious family trip is a steady supply of power to keep electronic devices nourished. For second row occupants, there is a USB type-A and a USB type-C charging point. Parents of babies and toddlers will appreciate the inclusion of integrated sun-blinds into the rear passenger doors (available on Ti-L model only), offering protection on sunny days with an easy one-handed operation.
The sizeable boot space on offer puts the X-Trail among the top-runners in its category for luggage space with a total capacity of 575 litres — just 10 litres less than the ICE X-Trail — thanks to a best-in-class floor length and also width between wheelhouses. The improvements in the utility of the luggage area make loading baggage easier and the storing of small items more convenient. Additionally, the modularity of the two luggage boards offers 16 different layouts, for optimal space usage.
A powered tailgate, which is hands-free on Ti-L models, makes accessing the boot effortless.
State-of-the-art foundations: The CMF-C platform
Like the all-new Qashqai, the all-new X-Trail is based on the Alliance CMF-C platform, which represents a state-of-the-art automotive structure and technology architecture.
In terms of construction, the body in white makes use of more lightweight material, as well as advanced stamping and welding techniques to increase strength but to also reduce weight. For the first time, the rear hatchback door on the X-Trail is now made of a composite material.
The front and rear doors, front fenders and hood, are all now made of aluminium.
This contributes to refinement, ride comfort and driving response typically found in a higher segment, plus exceptional security in the event of an accident – as well as adding benefits to the car’s overall efficiency.
New suspension and steering design
The all-new X-Trail will continue to offer a rewarding driving experience – building on its reputation as a refined and cosseting drive, but nevertheless, enjoyable when the road turns twisty.
Thanks to the CMF-C platform, the new X-Trail has an updated Macpherson strut set-up at the front. Rear suspension is an advanced multi-link set-up.
The power-steering set-up has been upgraded, offering improved response, better feeling around the central part of the steering range and reduced friction.
35 inches of infotainment with e-POWER content
The larger, higher resolution 12.3-inch display screen is a digital gateway to navigation, entertainment and vehicle settings, and is compatible with both Android AutoTM and Apple CarPlay, with wireless Apple CarPlay also introduced.
A new high-definition, fully electronic 12.3-inch TFT multi-information screen offers a choice of configurable layouts to display navigation, entertainment, traffic or vehicle information, all controlled from a new tactile dial switch on the steering wheel. In X-Trail e-POWER models, drivers can also choose the “Energy Flow” screen, which delivers a visual representation of the e-POWER system at work.
A traditional “Kiriko” cut glass texture is also added to the TFT’s digital background – a nod to Nissan’s Japanese DNA.
An innovative new 10.8-inch (windscreen type) Head-Up Display (HUD) provides the biggest-in-segment image size. Key navigation, driver assistance and road information are projected onto the windscreen within the driver’s line of vision.
Connectivity extends to all occupants with the console box now offering front and rear USB charging connections with both USB-A and USB-C ports.
When safety always comes first
Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility suite of active safety features is now provided with even more capability.
Standard functions include Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Cruise Control with Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Departure Warning and Prevention, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Rear Auto Emergency Braking (with pedestrian and cyclist calibration), Junction Assist, and Driver Attention Alert.
A Rear Seat Alert function advises the driver instantly when a rear door is opened or closed while the vehicle is in motion. The system records if a rear door was opened, and activates a timer once the driver’s door is closed, sounding an alarm if the rear door remains unlatched.
A seventh far-side airbag, protecting the space between the front seat passengers, has been added to the X-Trail six-airbag passive safety system.
Also new for X-Trail e-POWER models is an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System, which lets other road users know an electrified vehicle is approaching when the X-Trail is operating in near-silent EV Mode.
The X-Trail has been awarded a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
ProPILOT semi-autonomous driving
Both X-Trail e-POWER with e-4ORCE models are equipped with the next generation of ProPILOT driver assistance, bringing greater driver support in a wider array of circumstances. The system has been designed to reduce fatigue and stress while driving, while being very intuitive to use.
ProPILOT is able to accelerate and brake the vehicle within a single-lane on a highway. The system can accelerate the vehicle to cruise at a set speed, and can brake the vehicle down to 0km/h in heavy stop-start traffic. The system is able to resume automatically if the vehicle has been stationary for less than three seconds and the traffic in front of the car moves away.
Pricing and Grade Walk
Nissan X-Trail Ti e-POWER with e-4ORCE
$54,190 (plus on road costs)
- e-POWER (2.1kWh battery, variable compression ratio, 1.5L turbo-petrol 3-cylinder engine, power generator, inverter and twin electric motors, combined system output of 157kW)
- e-4ORCE 4WD system
- e-Pedal Step
- Active noise cancelling
- Black V-motion Grille
- e-POWER badge (doors & tailgate), e-4ORCE badge (tailgate)
- Intelligent Rear View Mirror
- Adaptive matrix LED headlight system
- LED rear lights
- LED turn signals
- Fog lights
- Auto wipers
- 10.8-inch head-up display
- 12.3-inch TFT Advanced Drive-Assist Display instrument cluster
- 12.3-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay wired Android AutoTM and wireless smartphone charging
- 2 USB ports for front seats, 2 for rear seats
- 10-way powered driver and passenger seat, including lumber support
- Genuine leather-accented trim
- Ambient lighting (console)
- Tri-zone air conditioning
- Panoramic sunroof, with tilt-slide front sunroof section
- Power tailgate
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Privacy glass
- Leather-accented steering wheel
- Sliding rear seats
- Heated front seats
- Luggage board system (16 configurations)
- Digital Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection
- Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System
- Tyre pressure monitoring system
- ProPILOT with Lane Keep Assist
- Far side airbag
- Emergency Stop Signal
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Rear Seat Alert
- Enhanced Intelligent Mobility suite of active safety features including Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Cruise Control with Traffic Sign Recognition, Land Departure Warning and Prevention, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Rear Auto Emergency Braking (with pedestrian and cyclist calibration), Junction Assist, and Driver Attention Alert
Nissan X-Trail Ti-L e-POWER with e-4ORCE
$57,190 (plus on road costs)
Adds:
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Reverse tilt power mirrors with memory function
- Heated steering wheel
- Heated rear seats
- Memory function for front seats
- Quilted Nappa leather-accented seats
- Ambient lighting (door)
- 10-speaker Bose audio system
- Motion sensing power tailgate with position memory
- Remote engine start
Rear door sunshades