Frankfurt Live - 2014 Nissan X-Trail starts afresh

12/09/2013 - 16:20 Nissan X-Trail, Nissan, 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show Nithyanandh K

The 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show witnessed the world debut of the 2014 Nissan X-Trail.

The new X-Trail forgets the past and starts a new innings as evident from the completely different design. Gone are the boring boxy looks of the old car. The styling is on the same page as the company's existing crossover range that includes the Qashqai, Murano and Juke.

Based on the Common Module Family (CMF) platform which was jointly developed by Renault and Nissan, the new gen X-Trail is a close relative of the new Qashqai. Both models derive their design inspirations from the Nissan Hi-Cross concept that was showcased at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The new X-Trail carries an additional responsibility of replacing the 7-seat Qashqai+2.

The Nissan logo enclosed within a U-shaped chrome motif takes the pride of place up front. The angular LED headlamps with integrated daytime running lights and a sculpted bumper give the crossover a good road presence.

In profile, the 19" alloy wheels complement the creases on the sheet metal. The rear is relatively simple and uncluttered with wraparound taillights, hexagonal license plate enclosure and a black plastic diffuser. In a nutshell, the design is all-new but conservative.

The interior is available either in an all-black or in a beige and black dual-tone theme. The dashboard layout follows the conservative approach of the exterior. The silver accented steering wheel bears integrated audio controls and there is a 7" touchscreen for the Nissan Connect multimedia infotainment system on the centre console. The instrument console houses a color MID while the stylish AC vents sport silver surrounds.

Nissan hasn't disclosed all the powertrain details yet but has announced that the car will get the ALL MODE 4x4i electronic four wheel drive system which offers the option of 2WD mode, Auto Mode (power gets split between front and rear wheels depending on the conditions) and a full 4x4 mode.

Starting next year, the car will go on sale in 190 countries.

More details can be found in the press release on page 2.