Nissan prices hybrid X-Trail for Aussie arrival

POTENTIALLY the most anticipated models in the new generation Nissan X-Trail line-up are the “e-Power with e-4orce” hybrids that will will join the Australian range in early 2023 priced at $54,190 in high-grade Ti trim or $57,190 for the flagship Ti-L (both plus on road costs).

In contrast to Toyota, which offers hybrid options from entry level up on its RAV4 in front- and all-wheel drive flavours, Nissan has limited the availability of this sought-after drive system to all-wheel drive and it is only an option on top-of-the-line X-Trail variants at a $4200 premium over the petrol-powered equivalents.

Regardless, the e-Power with e-4orce system is unlike conventional hybrid or plug in hybrid systems as it is claimed to deliver an EV-like drive experience all of the time, without needing to plug in.

The innovative e-Power technology, versions of which have been available in other Nissan vehicles sold overseas for some time, is EV-like since the drive wheels are powered only by the electric motors and not the ICE engine, so response is always instant, linear and smooth while the twin-motor all-wheel-drive system promises to deliver strong levels of traction and acceleration in all conditions.

The X-Trail’s e-Power with e-4orce system comprises a high-output 1.8kWh battery integrated with a petrol engine, power generator, inverter, and twin electric motors (150kW front axle, 100kW rear axle with a combined system output of 157kW).

Similar in concept to a diesel-electric locomotive, the hybrid system helps the 1900kg X-Trail achieve spirited performance along with fuel efficiency rated at 6.1 litres per 100km according to the ADR combined cycle.

Power for the electric motors and battery is generated by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder variable compression Atkinson Cycle turbocharged petrol engine that runs in the background to feed the battery, which then supplies power to the electric motors via an inverter.

The arrival of the two hybrids completes a comprehensive, six-variantl X-Trail SUV line-up, one of the broadest medium SUV ranges in the country says Nissan.

Designed to act as flagship models in the X-Trail range, the e-Power with e-4orce vehicles are both available only in five-seat configuration.

The X-Trail Ti e-Power with e-4orce features 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.

Technology adherents will no doubt appreciate the significant offering provided by both hybrid X-Trails with the Ti scoring 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 Ti-L e-Power with e-4orce advances the luxury offering with a heated steering wheel, Bose 10-speaker sound system, full Nappa leather seat upholstery with memory seat function, rear sunshades, hands-free rear tailgate, heated rear out-board seats, remote engine start to name only a few standard features.

“With the X-Trail Ti and Ti-L e-Power with e-4orce models, luxury and efficiency arrive hand in hand, combining the best design, safety, comfort and convenience features with Nissan’s advanced electrification technology to deliver an EV-like drive experience and incredible efficiency,” said Nissan Australia managing director Adam Paterson.

“It’s the kind of technology you need to experience to believe, and we can’t wait for Australian families to climb behind the wheel.”

Deliveries of the Nissan X-Trail e-Power with e-4orce will commence in early 2023.

2023 Nissan X-Trail pricing*:

*excludes on-road costs