2017 Nissan X-Trail Facelift: 3 Engine Choices, Key Upgrades

The 2017 Nissan X-Trail facelift arrives as a polished iteration of Nissan’s third-generation SUV, launched originally in 2013. This mid-cycle refresh introduces targeted enhancements to exterior styling, interior materials, and technology, aiming to keep the model competitive in the bustling family SUV market. Families seeking a versatile, spacious vehicle with optional all-wheel drive and seven-seat capability will find much to appreciate, though it faces stiff rivalry from newer entrants boasting sharper dynamics and larger boots.

Exterior Redesign: Subtle Yet Impactful Changes

Nissan’s designers focused on evolutionary updates for the 2017 X-Trail, emphasizing the brand’s signature V-Motion grille that extends boldly into the redesigned front bumper. This wider grille, paired with reshaped LED headlights and rectangular fog lamps, gives the front end a more aggressive, modern stance. At the rear, full LED taillights and a revised bumper contribute to improved aesthetics and visibility.

Four fresh color options expand personalization choices, while higher trims like Tekna feature 19-inch alloys, roof rails, and panoramic sunroofs. The overall dimensions remain practical at 4690mm long, 1820mm wide, and 1740mm tall, with a curb weight starting from 1562kg, balancing presence on the road with maneuverability.

Powertrain Options: Balanced Performance for Everyday Use

Buyers have three engine choices: a 161bhp 1.6-litre petrol unit delivering 46mpg and 145g/km CO2 emissions, a 130bhp 1.6-litre diesel, and a punchier 175bhp 2.0-litre diesel. The latter, shared with the Renault Koleos, excels in smoothness especially with the optional CVT automatic, achieving 0-60mph in around 9.5 seconds for the petrol variant and a top speed of 124mph.

The six-speed manual pairs well with the petrol engine, offering responsive shifts and versatility across urban and highway drives. Diesel models provide better torque for towing, appealing to those hauling heavy loads. All-wheel-drive variants include a variable 4WD system, enhancing capability on light off-road trails.

Note: Figures are approximate based on manufacturer claims and tester experiences.

Driving Dynamics: Comfort Over Sportiness

Behind the wheel, the X-Trail prioritizes cruising comfort over agile handling. Expect noticeable body roll in corners and soft steering that favors relaxed motorway runs. The ride absorbs larger undulations well but can feel fidgety over urban potholes. Stand-still assist occasionally holds too long on mild inclines, frustrating junction maneuvers.

All-wheel-drive models shine off the pavement with updated hill-start assist and capable traction on mud or gravel, making it suitable for family adventures. The 60-litre fuel tank supports extended trips, with real-world thirst around 8.3L/100km for tested CVT variants.

Interior Comfort and Practicality: Space for All

Step inside to find a welcoming cabin uplifted by new soft-touch materials on the dashboard and doors, plus a distinctive D-shaped, flat-bottom steering wheel—heated in top trims. Leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, and ample adjustment ensure long-haul comfort, though the high seat position may challenge shorter drivers.

The seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while compact with dated graphics, operates smoothly with DAB radio standard across the range. Boot space in five-seat guise grows to 565 litres (up 15 litres), expanding to 945 litres with seats folded; seven-seat models offer flexibility for larger families.

• Seating: Optional third row for seven passengers, with ISOFIX points on outer second-row seats.
• Storage: Deep door bins, overhead consoles, and under-floor compartments.
• Climate: Dual-zone automatic with rear vents.

Safety and Technology Suite: Comprehensive Protection

Earning a five-star ANCAP rating, the 2017 X-Trail packs advanced aids including Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera. Automatic high beams and traffic sign recognition add to the driver-assist arsenal.

Flagship trims bundle keyless entry, navigation, and premium audio, positioning it well-equipped against rivals. However, the infotainment lags behind flashier systems in competitors like the Skoda Kodiaq.

Trim Levels and Pricing: Value Through Deals

UK sales favor N-Connecta (39%) and Tekna (47%) trims, reflecting demand for loaded specs. Base models start affordably, but top-end pricing appears steep on paper. Nissan counters with zero-percent finance on high deposits, enhancing appeal.

• Acenta: Alloys, climate control, cruise.
• N-Connecta: Touchscreen nav, parking sensors, roof rails.
• Tekna: Panoramic roof, leather, 360 camera, heated seats.

Market Positioning: Strong but Not Class-Leading

As the world’s best-selling SUV in its era, the X-Trail slots above the Qashqai, borrowing tech while offering superior space and ruggedness. It excels as a practical hauler—easy to drive, spacious, and family-focused—but trails fresher rivals in boot volume (vs. Kodiaq’s 720 litres), interior modernity, and dynamic sharpness.

Minor niggles like intrusive assists and low-speed ride don’t detract from its core strengths: versatility, comfort, and off-road poise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2017 X-Trail suitable for towing?

Yes, especially the 2.0 diesel with up to 2,000kg capacity; its torque handles heavy loads effectively.

How does fuel economy compare in real-world driving?

Expect mid-40s mpg on diesel manuals, dipping in city use; petrol suits lighter duties at ~40mpg.

What’s the difference between five- and seven-seat versions?

Seven-seaters sacrifice some boot space but add third-row flexibility; both maintain strong practicality.

Are there reliability concerns with the facelift?

Builds on a solid platform with five-star safety; routine maintenance keeps issues minimal.

Should I choose 2WD or 4WD?

2WD for efficiency; 4WD for occasional off-road or wet conditions with improved traction.