Nissan X-Trail ST 4WD: 10 things you didn’t know

1. The once boxy Nissan X-Trail received a facelift in 2014 and now sports a more sleek and sophisticated design.

2. The X-Trail comes in twelve variations, including 2WD and 4WD, five or seven seater, petrol or diesel, with manual or Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

3. The petrol-powered ST 4WD model is priced at $33,980 - good value for a mid-size crossover. But it only comes with CVT.

4. The X-Trail’s boot benefits from Nissan’s brilliant Divide-N-Hide configurable cargo system. The boot floor lifts up and splits in two to reveal two separate, hidden compartments. This model’s rear storage area is an impressive 550L, rising to 1520L with the second-row seats folded down.

5. The ST 4WD is spacious and comfortably seats five adults with heaps of leg room.

6. Its 2.5-litre petrol engine generates adequate power of 126kW – but torque remains unimpressive at just 226Nm. Those needing to tow might look elsewhere.

7. Fuel consumption is a reported 8.3L/100km. Our test saw a reasonable 9.3L/100km over 100km of mostly urban driving.

8. In keeping with Nissan’s off-road roots, the X-Trail allows the driver – as opposed to an electronic nanny - to select either 2WD (to the front wheels) or 4WD.

9. Phone connectivity requires a system called NissanConnect which can be cumbersome and confusing.

10. The cloth trim, on all base models, absorbs all manner of nasty kiddie stains. Those with small people regularly on board might consider models with leather trim.