New Nissan X-Trail: first drive - On the road

The new X-Trail comes with two four-cylinder petrol engines: a 139bhp 2.0-litre unit and a 167bhp 2.5-litre motor, but 90% of buyers will go for one of the 2.0-litre diesel models.

Each is impressively flexible, although the 171bhp version benefits from more low-down pulling power than the 148bhp engine. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard for all versions; the petrols have optional CVT transmissions, while the lower-powered diesel is available with a six-speed automatic gearbox.

On Tarmac, the X-Trail strikes a fine balance between passenger comfort and driving pleasure, with suspension that provides a comfortable ride over any surface, yet also gives decent control through corners. There's decent grip, too, and the steering is well weighted and responsive.

All models have a selectable four-wheel-drive system, while the top two trims feature hill-descent and hill-start systems.

Although the X-Trail's bulky shape creates some wind noise at speed, it's one of the most refined compact 4x4s around. Road and suspension noise is subdued, too, and the diesel engines are smooth and quiet, even when worked hard. The manual gearbox shifts neatly between ratios, too.