Nissan X-Trail T33 Ti-L (Petrol) (2022-2026)

A modern day version of the original X-Trail. And far superior to the previous generation – I managed to get my hands on the last of the previous generation X-Trail to review before this new generation arrived. I was far from impressed seeing as it was a dreadfully old car against a sea of overwhelmingly strong competitors. It was time for that to retire and make room for this. The new X-Trail manages to capture the essence of what made the first generation so appealing. It's design. The boxy rectangle returns in a more modern form.

There's a simple non-turbocharged 4 cylinder under the engine (which is paired to a CVT motor). That's appealing for buyers who are looking for a cheaper to maintain engine, and don't mind the slightly higher than average fuel consumption an engine like this would bring.

It's all-wheel drive, and provides confidence on slippery unsealed surfaces - like on a dewey grassy hill.

There's plenty of space in the first two rows, and the option to throw 2 people in the rear via some smaller jump seats.

The new interior layout is familiar if you've been in the new Qashqai. And that's a good thing. There's an easy to operate infotainment for phone projection, lots of storage cubbies and a crisp digital drivers display.

The new X-Trail handles better too. It still feels like a wagon thanks to its length and weight, but it's shaper and restricted in its movements unlike the floaty previous generation.

This top-trim X-Trail is offered at a sharp price point, but that CVT transmission has a dark history in regards to its long-term reliability. That's something to be aware of, but many Nissan owners do go without issue with regular maintenance. It's possibly the only weak point in this cars tantalising offering.

The new Hyundai Santa Fe is arriving soon and will be another boxy SUV alternative to this. But for now, the X-Trail at its price point is one of the most compelling all-wheel drive family cars you can buy outside of Subaru.

*Disclaimer - I work for ProductReview as their independent car and motorbike expert. I borrow new cars and motorbikes from manufacturers and owners to review. I am not paid or incentivised by these brands to post reviews. I write and create content to provide insight and information about any new or used vehicle I can get my hands on.