Editor of 4X4 Magazine, Alan Kidd, wrote: "You can get blasé about new vehicles when you're bombarded with them week in, week out. But the upside of that is that when something really knocks our socks off, we know it must be special. And that's exactly what the new X-Trail has done.
"It's capable, classy, entertaining and, with its seven-seat layout, hugely practical. Whether you want it for work or play, it's right there, right on the money. A good SUV is meant to be good at everything: the new X-Trail is great at everything, and it's a great SUV.
"We love that Nissan hasn't abandoned off-roading, too. For all the X-Trail's slick looks, classy cabin, and high-tech electrified powertrain, it's still capable of finding grip on rough ground and low-traction surfaces.”
Judges at the 4x4 of the Year awards, sponsored by BFGoodrich, also gave the sought after ‘Best Crossover’ title to the Nissan Qashqai.
"The Qashqai was new last year, and it went straight to the top of its class,” Alan added. “It does have some strong rivals – not least another Nissan, the Juke – but in the last 12 months its position has actually become stronger. The e-Power drivetrain has added something really worthwhile to what was already one of the definitive family vehicles of its time."
Matt Duncan, Passenger Car Marketing Manager at Nissan GB, commented: “It is such an honour for X-Trail to be awarded 4X4 of the Year, as well as Best Medium SUV, and for Qashqai to be named Best Crossover.
“These are incredibly competitive segments and it’s exciting to see e-4ORCE and e-POWER technologies making such a positive impression on the industry.”
X-Trail, the electrified family adventure crossover, is eye catching and rugged, but equally it is spacious, comfortable and has a variety of technology to ensure an effortless and confident drive. It even has a seven-seat option, making plenty of room for everyone.
X-Trail delivers e-4ORCE, Nissan’s unique all-wheel drive technology. The system encompasses two e-motors delivering reassuring traction and strong acceleration in multiple conditions. e-4ORCE’s rear torque response is 10,000 times faster than a mechanical 4WD system which allows for a smoother, more comfortable ride.
e-4ORCE had been carefully tuned by engineers to optimise handling and stability across a variety of driving scenarios, with the system managing power output and braking to each wheel individually. Driver confidence is also boosted by e-4ORCE, by tracing the intended driving line over nearly any road surface, while never needing to change driving style or input. This exciting technology has driven X-Trail into 4X4 Magazine’s top spot!
X-Trail and Qashqai can also have the option of Nissan’s new electrified powertrain, e-POWER. This unique technology drives the wheels fully with an electric motor, which in turn is powered by a petrol engine, which feels like an EV-drive, without the need to recharge.
Qashqai, which is considered the original crossover and family favourite, offers a safe and smooth driving experience with lots of technology and premium trims. From the Around View Monitor, ProPILOT Assist with Navi-Link and Adaptive Driving Beam Technology to massage seats, Bose sound system and rear USB ports, Qashqai is designed to ensure a comfortable journey for everyone.
Read more about X-Trail here, and Qashqai here.
