Things we like
- Practical and clever interior layout
- Good list of standard features
- Ride comfort
Not so much
- Tight third-row on AWD variants
- Driving dynamics are decent
- Service intervals are shorter than rivals
The Nissan X-Trail, a well-regarded SUV known for its practicality, comfort, and value, has been named our Best Medium SUV for 2023
Building on the global success of its predecessor in the same category, the latest X-Trail has made an impressive debut this year.
It also achieved a commendable top-four finish in the 2023 Wheels Car of the Year, standing out not just among its direct competitors but also against new models from various categories.
Now, let's delve into the details of the X-Trail range, focusing on the ST-L model, to discover its features and offerings.
Pricing and features
The engine options for the ST-L include a 2.5-litre petrol engine, available in both front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations. The FWD variant comes as a 5-seater, whereas the AWD version is exclusively a 7-seater.
Sitting up one variant over the entry-level ST, the starting price for the ST-L FWD model is $43,190, excluding on-road costs. Opting for the additional two seats in the AWD model also means an extra $3,100 to $46,290, but this includes the AWD feature and a few additional specs.
The X-Trail ST is impressively equipped for its class. It boasts a modern and functional exterior design, emphasising practicality and ease of operation.
Internally, the ST provides a roomy and intuitive cabin. The infotainment system covers essential connectivity needs, and the intelligent arrangement of space, complemented by Nissan's 'Divide-N-Hide' cargo system, enhances its practical aspects.
2023 Nissan X-Trail features | |
---|---|
17-inch alloy wheels | LED headlights, tail-lights and daytime running lamps |
5 or 7 seats | Plastic steering wheel |
8.0-inch infotainment screen | Power folding and heated door mirrors |
Active cruise control | Push-button start |
Air-conditioning with second-row air vents | Rear parking sensors |
Auto-dimming rear-view mirror (7-seater only) | Rear-cross traffic alert |
Autonomous emergency braking | Reverse auto braking |
Blind-spot warning | Reversing camera |
Cloth seats | Six-speaker audio system |
Digital instrument cluster | Six-way manually adjusted driver's seat |
Driver's lumbar support | Space-saver spare wheel |
Dusk-sensing headlights with high-beam assist | Traffic sign recognition |
Forward collision warning | Trailer sway control |
Keyless entry | Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
Lane departure warning |
Spending the extra $6,440 to move up to the ST-L adds a few luxuries such as leather accented and heated front sears, a surround-view parking monitor and privacy glass.
Safety
The 2023 Nissan X-Trail was awarded a five-star safety rating by ANCAP, with notable scores of 91 percent in adult occupant protection and 90 percent in child occupant protection.
7 airbags (dual front, side, curtain, and front-centre) | Lane departure warning |
Autonomous emergency braking (vehicle, pedestrian, cyclist, junction, reverse) | Trailer sway control |
Adaptive cruise control | Rear cross-traffic alert |
Lane-keep assist | Rear occupant alert. |
Traffic sign recognition | Blind-spot alert |
Key rivals
The mid-size SUV sector is crowded with well-known and successful models, but being one of Australia's most favored segments, there's ample room for appreciation among:
Should I put it on my shortlist?
The 2023 Nissan X-Trail has demonstrated that it's a vehicle that truly justifies the anticipation.
This latest generation introduces a plethora of enhanced and new features, all wrapped in an attractive package.
If you can do without the creature comforts, and want to save some cash then the entry-level ST will suit just fine, but the ST-L is a tempting offering packing in little luxuries that you'll likely start to miss.
Things we like
- Practical and clever interior layout
- Good list of standard features
- Ride comfort
Not so much
- Tight third-row on AWD variants
- Driving dynamics are decent
- Service intervals are shorter than rivals
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