By Malusi Msomi

Nissan South Africa has officially launched the facelifted X-Trail, introducing refreshed styling, upgraded technology and additional safety features across the range. While this isn’t an all-new generation, the mid-cycle update brings meaningful improvements to one of Nissan’s most established SUVs.

The X-Trail has been a familiar sight on South African roads since 2001, with more than 50,000 units sold locally and over 8 million finding homes globally. This latest update aims to keep the midsize SUV competitive by enhancing its design, comfort and technology while retaining its proven mechanical package.

Sharper styling

The facelift introduces a more assertive front-end design with a redesigned grille and bumper featuring stronger horizontal lines that give the X-Trail a wider, more commanding stance.

At the rear, updated LED light clusters modernise the SUV’s appearance, while new alloy wheel designs help distinguish each model in the range. The Visia rides on 17-inch alloy wheels, the Acenta receives 18-inch wheels, and the flagship Acenta Plus gets 19-inch diamond-cut alloys.

LED headlights and taillights are now standard across the range, along with High Beam Assist and Follow Me Home lighting.

Cabin upgrades

Inside, Nissan has focused on improving both comfort and technology. Every X-Trail comes equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless smartphone charging, Bluetooth connectivity and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. Keyless entry with Walkaway Lock and Approach Unlock, paddle shifters and a multi-function steering wheel also feature across the range.

The Acenta and Acenta Plus add dual-zone climate control, powered heated front seats and a fully digital instrument cluster, while the range-topping Acenta Plus also benefits from a Head-Up Display.

Practicality remains one of the X-Trail’s strengths. The sliding and reclining second-row seats allow owners to maximise passenger or luggage space, while the Acenta Plus offers a third row, increasing seating capacity to seven.

New 3D Around View Monitor

One of the standout additions is Nissan’s latest 3D Around View Monitor. Using eight exterior cameras, the system provides a high-definition 360-degree view around the vehicle while introducing features such as Invisible Hood View, which allows drivers to see the area directly beneath the front of the SUV, and T-Junction View, designed to improve visibility when pulling out of concealed intersections. Moving Object Detection also works alongside the camera system to make parking and navigating tight spaces easier.

Familiar engine remains

Under the bonnet, the facelift retains Nissan’s 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 135kW and 244Nm. Power is sent to the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Nissan claims combined fuel consumption of 7.4L/100km, which translates to a theoretical driving range of nearly 750km from the X-Trail’s 55-litre fuel tank.

Drivers can select between Eco, Normal and Sport drive modes, while the Acenta Plus also gains dedicated Mud, Snow and Sand terrain modes to improve traction in slippery conditions.

Safety

Safety has also been enhanced, with every X-Trail fitted with multiple airbags, ISOFIX child-seat anchors, rear parking sensors and a reversing camera.

The standard Advanced Driver Assistance Systems suite includes Intelligent Cruise Control, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning and Prevention, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward Emergency Braking, Hill Start Assist and Trailer Stability Control.

Higher-specification models also receive Nissan’s latest ProPILOT driver assistance technology, tyre pressure monitoring and the new 3D Around View Monitor, while the Acenta Plus adds Hill Descent Control.

Pricing

The facelifted Nissan X-Trail is available now from Nissan dealerships across South Africa.

Nissan X-Trail 2.5 Visia: R599,900

Nissan X-Trail 2.5 Acenta: R688,900

Nissan X-Trail 2.5 Acenta Plus: R770,900

All models are sold with a three-year/90,000km service plan and a six-year/150,000km mechanical warranty.