2024 Nissan X-Trail Teased Ahead Of India Launch Next Month

Nissan Motor India is set to rejuvenate its portfolio with the launch of the fourth-generation X-Trail next month, following a long period of relying solely on the Magnite subcompact SUV. This highly anticipated launch marks the first new car introduction by Nissan India in several years, and it signals a significant strategic move to capture a larger share of the premium SUV market.

Historically, Nissan India offered the third-generation X-Trail, which was phased out, leaving a gap in its lineup that the Magnite alone has been filling. Now, the return of the X-Trail is poised to revitalise Nissan’s brand in India, offering advanced features and a competitive edge in the premium SUV segment, where it will rival models like the Hyundai Tucson, Volkswagen Tiguan, and Skoda Kodiaq.

The teaser suggests that Nissan might introduce the pre-facelift version of the X-Trail in India. Recently, a facelifted X-Trail, known as the 2024 Rogue in North America, was launched, featuring subtle design enhancements such as increased use of chrome on the V-Motion grille, a redesigned bumper, and a new tail light LED signature. Other design elements, including the clamshell bonnet, split headlight design, stylish LED DRL signature, radar module in the front lower grille, new 2D Nissan logo, and 19-inch alloys on top-spec models, remain largely the same.

Inside, the 2024 Nissan X-Trail boasts Google-based software integration, eliminating the need for Android Auto. It’s uncertain if the Indian version will include this feature. However, premium attributes like 360-degree camera ventilated seats, the Nissan Shield 360 ADAS suite, multi-zone climate control, and Nissan Connect telematics are expected. The infotainment system varies from an 8-inch unit to a 12.3-inch unit, depending on the trim level, with higher trims featuring a 12.3-inch instrument screen. Premium soft-touch materials, leather upholstery, and a three-spoke steering wheel are also expected to be part of the equipment suite.

Globally, the X-Trail is built on the CMF-C platform and offers a range of powertrains, including a 2.5-litre petrol engine and a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology. However, the standout feature is Nissan’s innovative ‘e-Power’ technology, which integrates a 1.5-litre petrol engine with electric motors. In this setup, the internal combustion engine (ICE) functions solely as a generator, while the vehicle is driven purely by electric power, enhancing fuel efficiency. Although unconfirmed, we could get this hybrid model in India, which would also be a first for Nissan to introduce this tech in India.

So, under the hood, the India-spec X-Trail might feature a sole 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine, delivering 201 bhp and 305 Nm of torque, paired with Nissan’s Variable Compression Turbo (VC-Turbo) technology, an X-Tronic CVT, and an AWD option.

For the Indian market, it remains to be seen whether Nissan will offer the X-Trail in a 2WD or 4WD configuration. We are hopeful that Nissan will opt for the CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route to achieve tax efficiency, rather than the more expensive CBU (Completely Built Unit) route, which could inflate the pricing. Having said that, the expected price point, considering it might come as a CBU, could range between ₹30-40 lakh (ex-showroom, India), positioning it competitively within its segment.