Thursday 23 December 2010

2011 Nissan X-Trail 2WD launched in Australia

Tim Beissmann

New Cars Editor

Nissan Australia has released the 2011 Nissan X-Trail 2WD in an attempt to appeal to a new customer base in the compact SUV market.

With an introductory starting price of $27,990 driveaway for the entry-level ST manual 2WD, the new model is the least expensive X-Trail ever offered in Australia.

Also available in two-wheel drive specification is the ST with continuously variable transmission (CVT) and the higher-spec ST-L CVT.

The 2WD models share their 102kW/198Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with the Nissan Dualis. Combined cycle fuel consumption is 8.5 litres/100km when teamed with the manual gearbox and 8.4 litres/100km with the CVT.

The ST 2WD comes with 17in alloy wheels; front, side and roof curtain airbags; electronic stability program; Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity; MP3 player input; 6 CD changer; steering wheel-mounted audio, Bluetooth and cruise control; heated and cooled glove box and cup holders; and removable and washable luggage boards.

The ST-L 2WD adds leather seat trim, electric and heated front seats, climate control, front fog lights, privacy glass and a rear cargo blind.

The four-wheel drive models have also been updated for 2011.

From January, all new models will feature chrome ‘4WD’ badging on the tailgate. They will continue with the more powerful 2.0-litre turbo-diesel and 2.5-litre petrol engine options, and maintain their 2000kg braked towing capacity, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control functions.

The price of ST 4WD models has increased by $500, but they are now equipped with 17in alloys, chrome door handles, and a leather trimmed steering wheel and park brake lever.

Nissan Australia CEO, Dan Thompson, said he expected the updated X-Trail to make a “significant impact” on the compact SUV segment, with the entry-level X-Trail 2WD to be popular among couples and families.

“We are sending a strong message to the market that we are serious about improving our market share and sales position still further in 2011,” Mr Thompson said.

The X-Trail is currently the fourth-highest selling vehicle in the compact SUV segment, behind the Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-7. Its share of the market over the first 11 months of 2010 is 8.5 percent, although that increased to 8.9 percent in November, well clear of the CX-7.

The 2011 Nissan X-Trail range is available from January 1, 2011, for the following recommended retail prices:

X-Trail ST