After a prolonged period of inactivity, Nissan India is set to reintroduce the X-Trail, marking a significant return with the fourth-generation model as a Completely Built Unit (CBU). Having first showcased the SUV in October 2022, Nissan has now teased the X-Trail ahead of its official launch. This will be Nissan’s second offering in the Indian market, following the Magnite, and comes after the Kicks was discontinued in April 2023.
Engine and Competitors
The new X-Trail will feature a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine, directly competing with the Hyundai Tucson, Skoda Kodiaq, and Volkswagen Tiguan.
A Familiar Name with New Features
The X-Trail is not unfamiliar to Indian buyers, with its first and second generations previously available in the market. While the third generation was showcased in India, it never saw an official release. The fourth-generation X-Trail, which has been available internationally since 2021, has been undergoing extensive testing in India.
Specifications and Platform
This premium executive SUV will be offered in both 5-seater and 7-seater configurations. Built on the Renault-Nissan CMF-C platform, the new X-Trail is available globally with a variety of petrol and hybrid powertrains. However, the Indian market will only receive the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol variant. According to sources, customer feedback and market research indicate that the petrol option is currently the most viable. With the government policies not favoring hybrids, they remain a costly alternative.
The X-Trail will house a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing 204hp and 305Nm of torque, paired with a CVT gearbox. It remains uncertain whether it will be offered with 2WD or AWD.
Strategic Move
The launch of the X-Trail is seen as a strategic stopgap to sustain consumer interest in the brand. Nissan also showcased the Juke and Qashqai SUVs in 2022, which are still under consideration for the Indian market.
Future Prospects
These introductions are intended to maintain momentum around Nissan as the company prepares for a broader product launch starting in 2025. Upcoming plans include a new 5-seater SUV to rival the Hyundai Creta, based on the next-generation Renault Duster, and a 7-seater variant. A facelift for the Magnite is also anticipated later this year.
Market Positioning
In the Indian market, the X-Trail will vie for attention alongside the Jeep Meridian, Hyundai Tucson, Skoda Kodiaq, and Volkswagen Tiguan. Given that the Kodiaq is also a CBU import, while the Tucson and Tiguan are assembled from CKD kits, the X-Trail’s pricing is expected to range between Rs 30 lakh and Rs 35 lakh (ex-showroom).
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