2011 Nissan X-TRAIL Reviews

With the X-Trail riding on a wave of popularity Nissan chose to tweak the compact SUV rather than re-invent it when it launched the new T31 model in 2007.As a result, the T31 looked very similar to the outgoing model, unless you got up close and saw the changes in detail.If you did that you would have seen it was longer, wider and taller, with more interior space, but it was also heavier.The 2.5-litre petrol engine was carried over with minor retuning, but the growing demand for diesel engines saw a turbo-diesel engine added to the range.In search of improved fuel consumption a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) became the automatic transmission option on the petrol engine.To meet the changing wants of SUV buyers, as more and more switched to the high-riding wagons, was the addition to the X-Trail range of a front-wheel drive model.By the time the T31 X-Trail was launched in 2007 the switch to SUVs, particularly compact models like the X-Trail, was in full swing.This new breed of buyers appreciated the practicality and versatility of a wagon, they liked the visibility of the high driving position, and while they weren’t necessarily going off road, they found the safety of all-wheel drive appealing.But they wanted more, hence the introduction of a turbo-diesel engine for better fuel economy, and a front-wheel drive model for those who had no desire at all to go off-roading.The T31 was launched with a revised model range, which was made up of ST, ST-L, and Ti with petrol engines, and the TS and TL with turbo-diesel engines.Entry to the T31 X-Trail club was through the ST, which boasted an extensive list of standard features, among them air-conditioning, a tilt-adjustable steering column, CD player and four-speaker sound, remote/keyless central locking, cruise control, variable intermittent wipers, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, power windows and mirrors, a rear wiper and washer, roof rails, a vanity mirror, cloth trim, and a trip computer. Metallic paint was optional.A step up to the ST-L added 17-inch alloy wheels, six speakers, climate control for the air-conditioning, an in-dash CD stacker, MP3 compatibility, front fog lights, and chrome exterior highlights.On top of all that, the Ti also came with power front seats, leather trim, and a sunroof.The diesel-powered TS was similarly equipped to the ST-L, the TL similar to the Ti.The spare wheel was full-sized until 2012 when a space saver spare was introduced.Bluetooth was added in 2009 allowing an iPhone or Android device to be connected.A MY10 update saw the ST-L get heated front seats and leather trim, the Ti got 18-inch alloy wheels, a DVD player, parking sensors, a reversing camera, and sat-nav.Another update in MY11 saw the release of front-wheel drive only versions of the ST and ST-L. At the same time Ti buyers were treated to automatic xenon headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, and keyless entry and drive away.The spare wheel was full-sized until 2012 when a space saver spare was introduced.There was no touch screen, or park assist system.The cabin had accommodation for five in a roomy and comfortable environment.Gone was the annoying centre-mounted speedo and other gauges that so many criticized in the T30; in its place was a more conventional dash in front of the driver.There were plenty of storage options, including the centre console, a cooled glovebox, door pockets in the front doors, and cupholders in the front and rear.The boot was a generous 633 litres with the rear seat in position, and 1651 litres when the split-fold rear seat was folded flat.The 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine carried over from the earlier model, but had lower noise, vibration and harshness levels, better fuel economy, and its mid-range response was improved.With VVT variable valve timing the double overhead camshaft engine put out 125kW (167 horsepower) at its power peak, and maximum torque of 226Nm.The engine was a willing performer with solid mid-range performance, but with extra weight to haul around its zip was dulled a little compared to the T30.To meet the growing demand for diesel engines a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine was added to the range in 2008.At its peaks it produced 127kW (170 horsepower), and 336 Nm of torque, and delivered the fuel-consumption savings motorists were looking for along with the smooth drivability that comes with a good level of pulling power.Those buyers who chose the petrol engine had the choice of a six-speed manual gearbox or a CVT auto, the latter with six preset ratios to make it feel more like a conventional automatic.With a little more weight to haul around the petrol engine isn’t the zippiest performer.The turbo-diesel came with a choice of a six-speed manual gearbox or a conventional six-speed automatic transmission.Final drive was courtesy of an improved version of Nissan’s acclaimed 'All-Mode' system, which offered three modes of operation; front-wheel drive, automatic, or 4WD lock for off-road driving up to 40 km/h. Hill start and descent assistance features were added to the system.To meet the demand for a high-riding wagon from buyers not wanting to go off road in their SUVs Nissan added front-wheel drive versions of the ST and ST-L to the range in 2011.The ride is comfortable with good damping and body control on road and off.With its independent MacPherson strut front suspension and coil springs in the rear suspension, handling is balanced and assured in most situations.The steering is light and responsive, and the turning circle is tight enough to make maneuvering easy.Both engines, even the diesel, are acceptably quiet, and there’s little road noise to bother those inside.With a little more weight to haul around the petrol engine isn’t the zippiest performer, and the diesel is better with good response and drivability thanks to its torque.With a comprehensive array of safety features ANCAP rated the T31 at four stars out of a possible five.Passive safety features included front airbags for the driver and front seat passenger, side front airbags, head airbags, and seat belt pre-tensioners.It was also well equipped with active safety features, including ABS braking, BAS emergency brake assistance, EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), and ESP electronic stability control.Lap sash seat belts on all five seats facilitate the fitment of a child seat, and ISOFIX baby car seat mounting points are fitted.The earliest of the T31 X-Trails will now have done on average between 150,000 and 250,000 km, which means they need to be approached with caution and require thorough checking before being purchased.Owners report they the reliability is good and they give little trouble, but any car of the age and odometer reading of those early cars needs careful assessment of its condition.Check under the car for damage from off-road excursions. The X-Trail is quite a competent off-road performer, but its ground clearance limits it to light off-roading rather than rock climbing.Buy the car in the best condition, with the lowest odometer reading, and a complete service history.Nissan recommends servicing every 10,000km or six months. If the service book doesn’t show a car has been serviced as recommended, be skeptical.Regular oil changes, using 5W-30 oil, are the key to long and reliable engine life.Capped price servicing didn’t apply to the T31, but service costs are not excessive, and any competent mechanic can do it.Anyone opting for the CVT auto should road test a car before making their decision, as they’re a different beast to drive and you need to get used its idiosyncrasies, one being the constant whirring noise.There were some issues with the CVT in early T31 X-Trails due to a bearing that was overloaded and prone to failure, and Nissan replaced many transmissions. Listen for odd metallic noises coming from the gearbox during your road test.Another problem reported on a number of diesel models is the failure of he DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter). They’re expensive to replace if you have to.The engines use a timing chain, which means there is no requirement for regular replacement.When new, the X-Trail carried a warranty of three years/ 100,000km.MORE: If anything crops up, you’ll probably find it on our Nissan X-Trail problems.Michael Liagourdis: My 2012 Nissan X-Trail Ti 4WD auto has 93,000km on the clock and has been trouble free. It’s great cruising on the highway, and it is impressive off-road. The 2.5-litre petrol engine is both fuel-efficient and smooth. Overall it’s a fun vehicle and a pleasure to drive.Ken Collins: I have a 2012 X-Trail and I love it. I’m tall, but it’s easy to get in and out, it’s great on petrol, has a ton of power, and is great to drive, especially long distances.Ross Weldon: I have been an X-Trail owner for 13 years; the latest is a 2012 ST-L. I wanted a good highway cruiser that could go off-road when required, and the X-Trail fills the bill perfectly. It is easy to enter and exit, has one of the biggest cargo areas in their class, and the fit and finish is spot on.Rigby Gilbert: My 2008 TS diesel manual is my second X-Trail. It has now done 160,000km and is still running as well as ever. The first was a petrol model, but I find the diesel relaxing to drive when towing and the fuel consumption when towing improved.Ian & Rae Singleton: We bought our 2011 X-Trail manual because we wanted easy access in and out of the car. It’s done 43,000km, none off-road, and it has been very reliable, easy to drive and gets good fuel economy on the open road. There’s nothing glamorous about it, but it’s a good, reliable and simple SUV.Roomy, practical family wagon that’s at home on the road and off.

Towing or touring, the boxy family wagon had ample living room. New Until you got up close to the new X-Trail Nissan released in 2007 you could have been forgiven for thinking little had changed. It was the same boxy shape, but when you did get up close you discovered it was longer, wider and taller than the outgoing

Though often used only as an on-road station wagon, Nissan's X-Trail is pretty competent as an SUV. While not intended to be used in extreme 4WD conditions, it can handle most recreational off-road driving with little trouble. Providing enjoyment to adventurous families while doing so.  Nissan X-Trail uses a complex

Jackson Rowe is considering buying a two to three-year-old Nissan X-Trail. It would be the family's regular day-to-day car, but he also wants it to tow a medium-sized 'tinnie' and a small trailer of wood out of the bush. He asks if the X-Trail was up to it, and he's also concerned about reports of troubles with the

Compact SUVs are the family wagons to be seen in. The segment account for just under half of all soft-roader sales - and that number continues to grow. Four-wheel drive associations report more compact SUV owners are calling to see if their vehicle is capable of doing an off-road course and some courses are now targeted specifically at women.It's the old story: women listen to instructions better than men and usually learn more. Nissan tops the sales in this segment with its X-Trail/Dualis duo. The Dual is is strictly a high-riding wagon, but the four-wheel drive X-Trails have reasonable off-bitumen capability. The boxy wagon is as practical as families looking for a weekend escape vehicle can aspire to.Money talks in this market and the leading players are generally within a few hundred dollars of each other. The base 2.5-litre petrol X-Trail ST all-wheel drive starts at $32,490 -- the same price as the Hyundai i35 and Mitsubishi ASX and climbs to $44,490 for the Ti model.The 2-litre turbodiesel TS is $35,990 stepping up to $42,990 for the TL. The base price is equal to the Hyundai i35 and Mitsubishi ASX and includes cruise control, Bluetooth phone connectivity and alloys wheels.A big part of the X-Trail's appeal is the number of clever storage areas, from the heated/chilled glovebox to the slide-out drawers in the boot. The boxy shape is softened by the curved tailgate and the rear seats fold flat to give it serious cargo capacity.Parents with kids in capsules will appreciate the seat height and wide-opening doors and the durable plastics and interior trim. It's not class leading, but the dirt and dust from a weekend in the bush is easily wiped or swept off.The all-wheel drive system in the X-Trail is known is controlled by a rotary dial with 2WD, Auto and Lock settings. It is as capable on gravel as any of the electronic AWD systems and also uses hill start assist and descent control to keep things tidy on slopes. There's the option of a continuously variable transmission on the petrol models or a six-speed auto on the diesels.The X-Trail crashes with four stars, according to the Euro NCAP authorities. It packs the expected front, side and curtain airbags, along with stability and traction control and ABS with brake assist and emergency brakeforce distribution. It didn't make five stars because the frontal offset collision test found that neck support for the driver was weak and front seat leg protection was marginal.The X-Trail has one of the best suspensions in the class. It irons out ruts on road and softens the big hits when negotiating a rocky track without wallowing like a pregnant hippo. The steering is accurate but set up so there's a bit of play before it responds to inputs and feedback through the wheel is reasonably ordinary.The diesel engine is the pick for off-road duties -- the 360Nm give the car enough grunt to scrabble up most slopes, or to poke its way through a river crossing. Drivers will usually find they run out of ground clearance (212mm) before the AWD system starts to struggle.On road it is a competent vehicle for shopping duties or interstate runs, though like most compact SUVs, pushing hard will create body roll and upset the passengers. Fuel use is about average with a claimed 9.3 litres for the 2.5-litre petrol engine with the manual transmission and 7.4 for the 2-litre diesel manual.The X-Trail is one of the more reassuring SUVs on dirt without affecting its on-road manners. It just pips the Forester for off-road action thanks to the diesel/auto drivetrain and as such, is the car to choose if you aim to be more adventurous than most compact SUV owners.

THERE are other X-Trails for offroading, but Nissan has designed their two-wheel drive version strictly as an onroader. That means it's really a large station wagon with the height and style of an SUV. Why do that? Because it's a growing chunk of the SUV sector, with buyers chasing a vehicle that will give them the illusion of strength and safety without the extra weight and fuel slug of an all-wheel or four-wheel drive system they'll never need.Nissan has positioned the X-Trail 2WD in the mid-spec ST-L level, where it will attract buyers looking for more goodies than in a bare base model - but who don't want to fork out for top-shelf spec. And the combination of a good equipment package and a starting price of $34,990 should attract some attention.But the front-driver is a latecomer to the field, and has to battle against some entrenched occupants with similar engine and transmission combinations.Among those with is its $2800-cheaper stablemate, the Nissan Dualis Ti, with the same drivetrain but slightly higher spec and better fuel economy, road manners and - let's be honest - better looks too, at $32,190. Unless you want the extra room of the X-Trail, the Dualis is well worth considering.Also cheaper is the $33,990 Mazda CX-7 Classic, with a larger engine offering more power and torque, and car-like ride and handling. But again, if space is your priority the Mazda also loses to the X-Trail.The real price fighters are the Koreans: the platform-sharing $28,220 Kia Sportage Si and $28,990 Hyundai ix35 Active. Their 2.0-litre engine offers more power than the X-Trail's, and they both have a stacked equipment list for this price. However the Kia is not only ahead of its clone-twin on both fit-out and handling, but even with a laid-back engine it's a good contender against the Nissan.Toyota offers the RAV4 as a 2WD in base $30,990 CV spec with a 125kW/224Nm 2.4-litre engine but only a four-speed auto, stale design and not a lot of goodies. There's more on offer in the Cruiser spec level with the same engine, but it puts the price up to $35,990.As part of a model range that has always touted a rugged attitude, the X-Trail 2WD has inherited the blunt, boxy and big approach to styling. That can be a blessing if you want to cart people and cargo around, with the vehicle's packaging designed to offer plenty of leg, head and shoulder room. Even the addition of a child seat doesn't seem to chomp out much of the rear seat space.The luggage area surface is a hardy, practical and very washable plastic, so there's no fear about throwing anything wet, muddy or four-legged in there, and divided underfloor trays stash valuables out of sight.Slip the headrests out of the rear seats, and they fold easily to a flat floor perfect for the weekend garage sale cruise, and take the capacity from 479 litres to a whopping 1773.The cabin is comfortable and punches above the usual base levels with leather seats (powered and heated in the front, with six-way adjustment for driver and four for sidekick). It also has plenty of storage spaces, including a large lidded bin on the dash and what looks like the world's tiniest cupholder on the centre console where the all-paw selector has been removed for the front-drive version.The X-Trail has six airbags -- front, side, and roof curtain  -- stability control, anti-skid anchors with brake-force distribution to compensate for uneven loads, brake assist for panic stops, and seatbelt pretensioners and active front seat head restraints in case all that doesn't pull you up in time.However it gets only four crash stars, as do the popular Toyota RAV4 and the rising Kia Sportage. But that means it's lagging behind the Nissan Dualis, Hyundai ix35 and Mazda CX-7 with five. We've said it in these pages before: five should be the standard, especially for vehicles aimed at the family.As mentioned, the X-Trail 2WD has nicked the 102kW/198Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and continuously-variable transmission from the Dualis.There's also a manual version if you want to save $2000, but it won't save you anything at the bowser, coming in at 0.1L more than the CVT's 8.4L/100km official figure. We didn't achieve that, and instead hovered between 9.5-9.8 in city driving but dropped to 8.8 after a couple of highway runs.The two-wheel drive misses out on the hill descent control and hill start assist system in the rest of the variant range, but retains active brake limited slip that applies braking force to a wheel that's losing traction, allowing the power to go to the wheels with a better grip.Behind the wheel, the X-Trail feels like exactly what it is - a big station wagon. Around town the engine feels as if it's not quite up to the task at hand. This is Nissan's shot at an economical version of the X-Trail, and it only felt comfortable in traffic if you drove it aggressively - which is hard on the engine, and hard on fuel.Handling is something of a moot point with a vehicle like this, and on a gently winding road it is well-behaved and comfortable, but its weighty nose refuses to poke neatly into sharp corners, and the other end thunks over badly-seamed bitumen.With the smaller engine, we weren't surprised to find the X-Trail is a fairly laid-back performer. If you relaxed and just let it get around town in an unhurried way it was fine, but it makes a bit of a racket if you try to wind it up too swiftly.A spin on the freeway gives a different story to city driving.  Like every SUV the extra height makes it easy to see the traffic ahead, and at freeway speeds the engine is more than capable of keeping you comfortably alongside free-flowing traffic.The X-Trail is a big square thing, and will always have wind noise, but the cabin is surprisingly quiet - possibly helped by good choice of tyres.The standout feature is its brakes. They're progressive and firm, and give you confidence that if you need to stop in a hurry there'll be no fuss. Adding extra bodies and a bit of cargo didn't bother it any further, but while it has a workable tow capacity of  1300kg braked, it's likely you'll fare better with more grunt from a bigger engine - and less gritted teeth.But the city-light steering lacks feel and any sort of connection with events. And while it helps in parking what is a sizable vehicle, it's almost impossible to judge the distance to objects around the rear pillars and back. Visibility is out front is fine, and the side mirrors give good coverage, but on inner city streets you find yourself wishing it wasn't quite so large.The X-Trail is competent but unexciting around town, and definitely not intended to go offiroad. Its best points are its cabin fit-out, cargo capacity and passenger space. If these are priorities, this is one to look at, although you should test the Kia up against it. If you are looking for strength and handling, measure it against the Mazda or the Dualis.

AUSTRALIAN motorists love compact SUVs which have taken over as the new family vehicle. The segment is one of the few experiencing growth and it's no wonder with 25 models available with a range of variants with diesel power, manual and automatic transmissions, plenty of cargo space and room for a family of five and even their pooch.Today every maker needs a compact SUV in their range. Over at Volkswagen Australia managing director Anke Koeckler says:. "The Tiguan is one of the volume sellers in our plan to become a significant player in Australia."The current Tiguan's about to be replaced by a second-generation model and is in short supply as is the Toyota RAV4 so they couldn't make this comparison of five compact petrol-powered automatic SUVs that includes top sellers, a European and the two emerging Korean models.We asked the Tranter family - Ross and Julie and their children, Joshua, 7, and Samantha, 5 - to come with us for a drive through city traffic, highway touring, rural roads and a picnic in the country in our full-day comparison test. They own a Mazda2 and admit that in a couple of years they will look at an upgrade, possibly to a compact SUV.VALUEPricing and feature fit-out is keen in this highly competitive category. Our five vehicles are mid to high spec, according to what was available from the manufacturer, but they only vary in price by $5000 from the Hyundai ix35 at $35,490 to the Subaru Forester at $40,490 which comes with a comprehensive info/navigation/entertainment system with reversing camera.The Renault Koleos is listed at $36,990, but our test vehicle was fitted with a leather package ($2500) that includes black leather seats, electric driver's seat, heated front seats and quick-release rear folding seats. It also comes standard with a built-in Tom Tom navigation system, auto wipers, front and rear parking sensors, and a chilled glovebox.The top-spec Kia Sportage Platinum is fitted out at similar levels to the Hyundai. It costs an extra $1230 but adds rain-sensing wipers. Both have rear parking sensors, sunroof, rearview camera, auto headlights, fog lamps (front only on Kia) and heated side mirrors.In the middle is the X-Trail at $38,490 with roof rails, auto climate control and cooled/heated cup holders.All come with what are considered essentials in a family car these days - remote locking, cruise control, comprehensive stereo connectivity for Bluetooth phones and iPods, fog lights and climate airconditioning.Resale values are similar, but slightly better for the Renault and Subaru at 54 per cent and the lowest was the X-trail at 50 per cent.TECHNOLOGYAt the heart of all these models are four-cylinder petrol engines of similar capacity. Even though the Hyundai and Kia share a 2.4-litre engine compared with the 2.5-litre units in the others, power and torque are almost the same across the group.Power varies only 5kW from 125kW in the X-Trail to 130kW in the Koreans and torque 9Nm from 226Nm in the Koleos and X-Trail to 235Nm in the Forester. All models also offer a diesel variant which are worth considering for economy if you're doing long distances and for their driveability. The Forester transmission is an old-fashioned four-speed auto, while the Koreans have six-speed torque-converter automatics; the X-Trail and Koleos have continuously variable transmissions with six selectable steps.Most are front-wheel drive switching to all-wheel drive when they sense rear-wheel slip, while the Subaru is permanent all-wheel drive. All have hill descent control and hill-start assist, but only the Renault, X-Trail and the Koreans have a locking diff function.Economy is fairly close across the group but interestingly the X-trail is the best at 9.1 litres per 100km compared with 9.5L/100km in the Koleos which runs the same engine, but weighs about 80kg more. The Koleos also requires 95Ron fuel.If towing is important, the X-Trail and Koleos have 2000kg capacity compared with 1600kg in the Koreans and 1400kg for the Subaru.DESIGNThe group can be split into two on styling - the boxy Nissan and Subaru versus the more curvaceous Hyundai, Renault and Kia. It comes down to taste, but the Tranters liked the "modern" look of the ix35."I like a car with a lot of curves," says Julie.To us the X-Trail and Subaru are starting to look a little old-fashioned, even though both have had major makeovers only a couple of years ago. Of the "rounded" models the Kia has a little more pizzazz with LED daytime running lights and coupe-like rear roofline.Statistics for cargo space never give a real-world indication of how much luggage can be fitted, but with picnic baskets, esky and our photographer's kit bags loaded, all seemed to hold a fair bit of gear. The Renault is the only model with a split rear tailgate which Ross liked, but Julie thought it would make it more difficult to reach luggage items at the back of the cargo area. However she liked the underfloor storage area with slide-out tray in the Nissan."I'd probably use it as a permanent storage area for sunscreen, the kids' hats and snacks," she says.The X-Trail's cargo floor was the only one in the group not carpeted, a virtue according to Nissan for outdoor types. In the cabin, the Nissan again looked a little tired, while the others appeared modern and fresh, although the Renault is a little quirky and difficult to get used to all those knobs and controls. The Tranters found cabin space good in all but praised the Subaru for having the best legroom space in the rear for the kids in their booster chairs.SAFETYAs a fire and rescue officer, Ross Tranter places a strong emphasis on safety."There are things I've seen at crash scenes that I'd rather forget," he says.The Tranters own a Mazda2 and bought the top spec just for the extra airbags in the back, so they were impressed that all models, except the XTrail, get a five-star safety rating with full-length curtain airbags and stability control.They also commended all for their good forward visibility and praised the Kia and Hyundai for their reversing camera conveniently located in the centre mirror. There was high praise, too, for the high driving position of all, which at least gave them a feeling of safety.All vehicles come with three anchor points in the rear, but the Tranters found the Subaru was the only vehicle that was easy to fit the seats as the belt clasps were not spaced wide enough in the others. On the theft safety front, the Subaru also has Data Dot protection.DRIVINGIt was the Tranters' ninth wedding anniversary but they enjoyed our test loop through Brisbane city and out into the country for a picnic, then later McDonalds for the kids. Stepping up from their Mazda2 to the compact SUVs was easy for the Tranters who commented that they liked the high seating position and good forward visibility of all models.They liked the Subaru: easy to drive, plenty of room in the back for the kids, a big boot and a quiet and comfortable ride. They found the Hyundai a bit noisy on some surfaces, comfortable with a lot of extras they enjoyed but they didn't feel it was as stable as the Nissan in the dirt. Praise came for the Renault's handling and steering feedback."I didn't feel like I wasn't in total control at any time. It's not wanting for power either. I could put my foot down and it was there when I wanted it," Ross commented. Julie found the Renault's quirky controls a bit confusing to start with. And Ross didn't like the Kia's seat. "It has good support down low but not up high."We found the Koreans' automatic gearboxes had to work hard to keep things humming along, while the Forester, Koleos and X-Trail felt more lively and responsive, even the Subaru with its four-speed box. We're no great fans of continuously variable transmissions, but the CVT boxes in the Renault and Nissan are among the best we have driven and kept the revs in the sweet spot for difficult terrain.Most of these will tackle a rough bush track and even a beach, but be aware they are not meant for heavy duty off-roading. Subaru is fitted with Yokohama Geolanders which we have found the best compromise between highway and track. The Forester also has the best ground clearance at 220mm while the Koreans have the lowest at 170mm (Hyundai) and 172mm (Kia), but you should take into account a load and passengers will reduce these clearances.VERDICTIf rough country roads were on our agenda, we'd pick the Subaru or X-Trail as both vehicles not only handled the terrain with poise but also gave a feeling of being solidly built and reliable. The Renault has the same X-Trail underpinnings and urges you to have a go at the rough stuff thanks to a pretty slick engine/transmission combination and slightly more compliant suspension. It is a much under-rated vehicle with only 310 sold fo far this year.Most of the vehicles in this class are suburban run-arounds doing the grocery, school and sports ground circuit. Here, the modern styling of the French and Korean models look the part. For the record, the Tranters liked the style of the Hyundai but when it came to family practicalities their vote unanimously went for the Subaru for its space, comfort and quiet ride.SUBARU FORESTER 2.5 XS PREMIUMPrice: $40,490Engine: 126kW/235Nm 2.5L 4-cyl petrolTransmission: 4-speed auto, AWDBody: 5-door wagonThirst: 9.3L/100km  CO2: 220g/kmSafety: 5 stars, 6 airbagsTowing: 1400 (braked), 750kg (unbraked)Warranty: 3-yr, unlimited kmService: 12,500 or 6 mnthsResale: 54%NISSAN X-TRAIL ST-LPrice: $38,490Engine: 125Kw/226nM 2.5L 4-cyl petrolTransmisson: CVT, 4WDBody: 5-door wagonThirst: 9.1L/100km  CO2: 214g/kmSafety: 4-stars, 6 airbagsTowing: 2000 (braked), 750kg (unbraked)Warranty: 3-yr/100,000km, roadside ass.Service: 6 mnths/10,000kmResale: 50%HYUNDAI ix35 2.4 HIGHLANDERPrice: $35,490Engine: 130W/227Nm 2.4L 4-cyl petrolTransmission: 6-speed auto, AWDBody: 5-door wagonThirst: 9.2L/100km  CO2: 219g/kmSafety: 5 stars, 6 airbagsTowing: 1600 (braked), 750kg (unbraked)Warranty: 5-yr, unltd kmService: annual or 15,000kmResale: 52%KIA SPORTAGE 2.4 PLATINUMPrice: $36,720Engine: 130kW/227Nm 2.4L 4-cyl petrolTransmission: 6-speed auto, AWDBody: 5-door wagonThirst: 9.2L/100km  CO2: 221g/kmSafety: 5-stars, 6-airbagsTowing: 1600 (braked), 750kg (unbraked)Warranty: 5-yr/unltd kmService: 1-yr or 15,000kmResale: 52%RENAULT KOLEOS DYNAMIQUEPrice: $36,990 ($40,290 as tested)Engine: 126kW/226Nm 2.5L 4-cyl petrolTransmission: CVT, AWDBody: 5-door wagonThirst: 9.5L/100km  CO2: 228g/kmSafety: 5 stars, 6 airbagsTowing: 2000 (braked), 750kg (unbraked)Warranty: 5-yr/unltd km, roadside assistService: 1-yr or 10,000kmResale: 54%SHOWROOM SUCCESSSALES success in the highly competitive compact SUV category is fickle, changing every month. Nissan X-Trail was the leader in June, Hyundai ix35 in May, Subaru Forester in February, April and July, Toyota RAV4 in January and March.So far this year Subaru Forester is the top seller with 7574, even though sales are down 13.1 per cent on last year. This repeats its top-selling success in the category since 2008. The new Hyundai ix35 was second with 6806, RAV4 third (6472), X-Trail fourth (6430) and Dualis fifth (5156). Despite the Renault Koleos being a Nissan X-Trail with French dressing, it has sold only 310 so far this year to rank 20th out of 25 models in the category.The compact SUV segment is one of the few recording growth with an increase of 2.1 per cent so far this year while the SUV category is down 2.9 per cent and the total new vehicle market is down 5.9 per cent. The only faster-growing categories are luxury SUVs (317.4 per cent) and utes (6.2 per cent).SAFE AND GREENOWNERS of any of our tested vehicles can rest assured they are safe and green. They all have six airbags, stability control and anti-skid brakes as a minimum, while some have more driver aids such as Hyundai's Vehicle Stability Management which adds steering assistance in low-traction situations. All get a five-star crash rating from the Australian New Car Assessment Program, except the X-Trail which was last tested in 2007 and scored four stars.The Australian Green Vehicle Guide gives all vehicles better than average scores for greenhouse air pollution and economy. The Kia and Hyundai score closely because they basically have the same drivetrain. The Hyundai scores 6 greenhouse rating out of 10 and 8.5 for air pollution gaining four stars. The Kia scores a 5.5 greenhouse rating because its CO2 levels are 2g/km higher. Next is the Subaru with 6 for greenhouse emissions, 6.5 for air pollution for 3.5 stars and Koleos with 5.5, 6.5 and 3.5 stars. There are no results listed for the X-Trail.Most of these models have been around for a while in some shape or form and are good buying second-hand. Subaru Forester and Honda CR-V are the only used compact SUVs rated as a "safe pick" by the Automobile clubs of Australia. In their recent annual buyer's guide to used car safety ratings, they gave five stars to the Forester (02-08) and CR-V (02-06). Four stars were awarded to the Kia Sportage (98-03), Toyota RAV4 (06-09), Ford/Mazda Escape/Tribute (01-06), CR-V (97-01), Forester (97-02), Suzuki Grand Vitara (99-05) and RAV4 (01-06).

WE turn the spotlight on automotive's newest and brightest stars, as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. Ultimately, however, there is only one question that really needs answering would you buy one?WHAT IS IT?This is the recently introduced X-Trail ST-L front wheel drive for people who don't want or need all wheel drive. It uses a Nissan Dualis engine and transmission. You can get a lower spec' manual version called the ST for under $30KHOW MUCH?$34,990 plus on roads.WHAT ARE THE COMPETITORS?Mitsubishi Outlander fronty, RAV4 fronty, Mazda CX7, Kia Sportage, Hyundai iX35 and plenty more.WHAT'S UNDER THE BONNET?Gets a twin cam, petrol 2.0-litre, four cylinder with 102kW/198Nm output drinking regular unleaded. Drive goes through a Constantly Variable Transmission (CVT).HOW DOES IT GO?OK but sometimes feels as it there's a sock in the exhaust until you floor the accelerator. Alternatively you can use a button on the gear selector to slip down a ratio for better acceleration. Gets off the line OK, not too noisy, willing once you get going. OK an around town practical wagonIS IT ECONOMICAL?Not particularly. Nissan says 8.4 litres/100km for the CVT ST-L. We got 10.1 in mostly highway driving and some inter-urban commuting — the same as a much bigger Ford Territory petrol rear wheel drive we we had at the same time.IS IT `GREEN?'Rates 6.5 in the Green Car Guide.IS IT SAFE?Will rate four ANCAP stars.IS IT COMFORTABLE?Yes, but the seat backs need more support even with the lumbar adjustment wound right up. The boxy body translates into plenty of room for five adults if necessary. ST-L grade scores plenty of kit like remote central locking, climate control, drive computer, leather upholstery, electric adjust and heated front seats, multi function wheel, 17-inch alloys, Bluetooth phone and privacy glass.WHAT'S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?Not too bad actually — bit tardy to respond to throttle input on the highway especially uphill but then it does weigh 1444kg and runs a 2.0-litre petrol engine. Wouldn't like to be in it with five adults and luggage with the air on. Ride is comfy and relatively well controlled, has strong brakes, minimal noise intrusion and high driving position.IS IT VALUE FOR MONEY?About on the money but we'd push for a sharper price given the competition.WOULD WE BUY ONE?Probably not, we'd go for the diesel auto first — a much better proposition but only available in 4x4 so you pay more.

SUVs may create false illusions of ruggedness but still have a city role for families. The illusion that you spent weekends hunting bears - but really were a downtrodden wimp who yearned a physical sense of highway authority - spawned the SUV in the US.That was decades ago and most of the delusional buyers have since either been eaten by a bear (at the zoo) or perished in a highway rollover. Now there's a new generation of buyer. Egged along by car companies who simultaneously axed their station wagons, buyers now appreciate that an SUV - ghastly term but we're stuck with it - offers versatile, flexible and a reasonably comfortable alternative for the family.Nissan's X-Trail has been here a decade and is still pulling crowds. Last year, after getting an all-new model for 2008 that looked exactly like the old model, it was Australia's third best-selling compact SUV.There's good reason for the X-Trail's success. It's affordable, has a cheaper front-drive option, is well equipped and very family friendly. The latest 2011 model goes up a bit in price but get extras - 17-inch alloys, pretty chrome bits and leather trim for the steering wheel and handbrake lever.The base 4WD model tested here, the ST, sells for $32,490 as a manual and an extra $2500 for the competent CVT auto. That is smack-bang in the middle of a voracious field of rivals. The X-Trail meets them on features and performance but is dulled by its dated, boxy and - to be frank - ugly looks.The latest model looks like the original model of 2001 but doesn't share one component or one dimension. It looks the same because Nissan though the old one was selling so well it feared change would kill the golden goose. But it's physically bigger and roomier inside.The dashboard is less quirky - the original had a central instrument panel - but retains lots of storage areas. The cooler tubes in the dash for softdrink cans have been replaced by a cooling or heating function within the glovebox.The rear seats split 40/20/40, fold flat and the boot has a false floor hiding drawers and lockers. Neat!Not anything to write home to Mum about but the 2.5-litre engine is an economical, simple yet durable mill. The all-wheel drive system works really well but isn't a cure-all for anything off the bitumen. Don't expect sunset dune runs because the shadow of the shovel will mar your picture.Drivers can keep it in 2WD (front drive) or switch to 4WD and then, as the sun sets, to 4WD Lock. The latter locks the centre diff allowing power to transfer to all wheels with traction. It's only a low-speed option. Steering is electric-assist, making it a quite vague, while the suspension is conventional coils and struts.The entry-level X-Trail ST 4WD gets a four-star crash rating and comes with six airbags, electronic stability control, brake assist and ABS, with off-road aids like hill descent control. The manual transmission model tested also has hill hold, which locks the brakes when stationary on an incline to give you a couple of seconds to get your left foot off the brake and onto the clutch. It all helps.This didn't thrill me but I appreciated its effort. The gearbox and engine relationship is cordial and the light clutch action confirmed that this is an easy wagon to drive.There's sufficient low-end kick in the engine to make it sparkle off the lights but it doesn't encourage higher revs. That's fine by me - it keeps fuel consumption and engine noise to a minimum. The steering is too light - and vague - to return a positive feel which diminishes the driving experience. However, for general punting around the suburbs, it's fine.Good visibility, a high seating position and simple controls will endear this car to the family taxi driver. Comfort is surprisingly good. The seats are soft though there's sufficient side bolster in the front seats to support the body.Ride and handling is pretty good - but I've driven better - but on the other side of the ledger, it absorbed the bumps better than some on the market.It's all a neater version of something we're already comfortable with, though isn't as snappy as its sister, the Nissan Dualis SUV.