What's the difference?
Can you believe that the Nissan X-Trail is 25 years old this year?
It’s safe to say that, over four generations, the Toyota RAV4 rival has been mostly good, though sometimes frustrating. The CVT autos from 2008 onwards have let the side down with dreary performance and questionable durability.
That said, the latest generation has also been the best of the lot, thanks in no small part to 'e-Power' and 'e-4orce' (translation: extended-range electric vehicle hybrid all-wheel drive, or EREV AWD) availability. A terrific allrounder.
Now, for 2026, Nissan has allegedly facelifted the X-Trail range.
Keep on reading to find out what’s changed, and whether the presumably-improved e-Power remains at the pointy end of the 35-strong mid-sized SUV segment.
The updated Audi Q7 is a bit of a game of ‘spot the difference’ - but even though it’s far from a new generation, the update is more than just some shiny new bits.
While the brand’s first SUV is still in its second generation, a bit of modernised design and some tech tweaks are aimed at keeping it in line with rivals, even as it nears a decade on sale.
As well as the new features, there’s also a new variant bound for Aussie showrooms. So, is it still up to the task?
For its silver anniversary, the X-Trail in e-Power guise remains better than ever. And the flagship Ti-L makes a convincing, value-packed, well-equipped and enjoyable to drive luxury medium SUV alternative for the family. Its only glaring fault is the omission of a full-sized spare wheel.
But other than that, given the Nissan’s warranty, reputation and the fact that it's still so functional, economical, gutsy and easy to live with, the e-Power remains one of our favourite mid-size SUVs. Our choice would be the Ti, though, chiefly because of its comfier 19-inch wheels.
Overall, changes to the Q7 aren’t quite revolutionary, but that’s okay because it was already a fantastic large SUV.
The fact Audi has kept the price around the same mark and introduced a cheaper entry-grade should be welcome news for prospective buyers.
But even the existing variants are capable and impressive family haulers… and now they’re just that little bit better.
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.