Four stars for X-Trail

THE stringent, independent European NCAP crash-test program has delivered Nissan's second-generation X-Trail compact SUV a "disappointing" four-star verdict out of five in the all-important adult occupant protection section.

This is a rung below the Dualis, which is based on the same platform and earlier this year scored an industry-leading 37 points for adult occupant protection. The X-Trail managed 30 points.

The SUV scored a commendable four stars out of five for child occupant protection (no vehicle has ever managed five), but just two stars out of four for pedestrian protection.

“This car is amongst one of Euro NCAP’s highest performers in child occupant protection it is then disappointing that this car achieved an unremarkable four stars in adult occupant protection,” Euro NCAP said.

The frontal test was the major concern for Euro NCAP testers, despite the passenger compartment remaining stable during the impact.

“Protection of the driver’s neck was rated as ‘weak’ because of the extent to which it was bent backwards in the test. Structures in the dashboard presented a risk of injury to the knees and femurs of the driver and passenger,” Euro NCAP said.

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