Dubai, 21 October 2004 - NISSAN X-Trail has already won a clutch of awards from motoring journals around the world and the new 2005 model is destined to continue enhancing an already impressive package and image.

Topping the innovations is an easy-to-use 4WD switch that offers a choice of three driving modes for the 4-cylinder, in-line, 2.5 litre, DOHC engine, coupled to electronically-controlled 4-speed automatic transmission and 5 speed manual transmission.  

Last year, the X-Trail was acclaimed 'Recreational 4x4 of the Year' by Auto Express, the leading UK motoring journal in its 'New Car Honors' programme, a decision that won the whole-hearted approval of X-Trail owners who revel in the vehicle's true sport utility spirit - as much at home in city traffic as off the beaten track in the great outdoors. 

The All mode 4WD system underlines the X-Trail's versatility. 2WD mode gives excellent fuel economy in normal, on-road driving conditions, while in 'auto' mode, sensors automatically detect the need for extra traction and distribute the appropriate torque between front wheel drive and full-time four-wheel drive. 'Lock' mode locks the X-Trail in 4x4 with a fixed front-to-rear torque distribution ratio of 57:43 for added traction.

A minimum turning radius of just 5.3 meters and responsive power steering provide excellent maneuverability for city driving, where the X-Trail's large dimensions are a joy in traffic. The interior is airy, and a huge sunroof retracts halfway along the cabin. Adding to the feeling of space are the light-coloured interior materials.

Impressive handling and ride are the product of McPherson strut-type front suspension and parallel-link strut suspension in the rear that ensure smoothness and comfort on all surfaces. Ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels offer sure-footed braking performance and extra peace of mind.

The state-of-the-art Nissan Navigation System (Daleel) covers the entire GCC with precise mapping of all major cities and off-road navigation to keep drivers on track event in the harshest and most remote desert. The system communicates in Arabic or English or another seven languages to guide drivers to any destination in the GCC in style and comfort.

The seating can be configured to carry any combination of passengers and their gear. When the 6:4 double-folding rear seats are down, luggage area length increases to 1,67 meters; with cushions removed - to as much as 1.84 meters, giving the X-Trail the largest capacity of any SUV. It can even accommodate mountain bikes. 

The water-repellent cloth upholstery has embossed dimple dots for a sporty look and the seats also have raised bolsters for firm support. A cargo hammock prevents muddy or wet items from coming into contact with other luggage and a 'restraint and partition' system keeps cargo in place and facilitates the orderly arrangement of individual items. Designed exclusively for the X-Trail, a standard anchor net features six luggage hooks. There are 13 locations on the chassis where hooks can be attached, allowing considerable flexibility in how the netting is fixed to restrain cargo and/or divide up the luggage area.

Nissan's 'Triple Safety' philosophy provides an impressive array of features, including CSR halogen headlights that provide brilliant illumination on the open road or a mountain trail; fog lamps that are stylishly integrated into the front bumper and very welcome in foggy, low-visibility conditions; and a high-mounted rear stop lamp that gives following drivers clear indication whenever brakes are applied.

Electronic brake force distribution (EBD) provides enhanced braking control for safer, stress-free driving in every vehicle load situation, and brake assist system (BA) ensures additional stopping power by activating ABS (or EBD) during hard or panic braking. Anti-lock braking (ABS) optimizes braking performance, helping the driver retain directional control of the vehicle, especially during emergency braking.

Seatbelts are equipped with pre-tensioners, which take up slack for faster restraint, and load limiters, that limit the deceleration force felt by the occupant. Dual front and side airbag SRS (supplemental restraint systems) help avoid or reduce the risk of injury resulting from an impact, and active head restraints move forward instantly to support the head in the event of a collision.

-Ends-

For more information you can log on the press room of www.nissan-me.com or contact:
Mirna Al-Qassim
TBWA/RAAD Middle East
Tel: + 971 4 222 6667 ext 233
Fax: + 971 4 222 6566
e-mail: mirnaq@tbwaraad.com

© Press Release 2004