Nissan X-Trail 3 restyling (2017-2023): what has changed and is it worth buying?

Restyled Nissan X-Trail third generation (index T32) appeared on the market in 2017, 4 years after the debut of the basic version. The update affected not only the appearance of the crossover, but also the technical content, equipment and even the suspension. For many buyers, this restyling became a reason to reconsider their attitude towards the model, which by that time had gained a reputation as a “damp” product with problems in variator And suspension.

In this article we will look at what exactly has changed in X-Trail T32 after restyling in 2017, what are the pros and cons of the updated version, and is it worth considering this crossover on the secondary market today. We will pay special attention reliability of the Jatco JF017E variator, which became the main “pain” of the pre-restyling versions, as well as the nuances of choosing between gasoline and diesel modifications. For clarity, let’s compare the key parameters before and after the update - the data is summarized in the table below.

External changes: what has changed in the design?

Restyling 2017 brought Nissan X-Trail a more aggressive and modern look, which brought the model on par with competitors like Toyota RAV4 And Mazda CX-5. The main changes affected:

• 🔥 Front: a new radiator grille in the “V-motion” style with chrome inserts, redesigned headlights (all LED in top versions), a different bumper with integrated foglights and more massive air intakes.
• 💡 Rear optics: LED tail lights with modified graphics (in versions LE And Ti - with dynamic turn signals), a modified bumper and a different shape of exhaust pipes (gasoline versions have two pipes, diesel versions have one).
• 🎨 Color palette: new body shades have appeared, including premium two-layer "Burgundy metallic" (code KAD), which was exclusive to the restyled versions of 2018-2019.

Interestingly, the side of the body remained virtually unchanged - the same wheel arches, window line and door shape were preserved. However, the designers added new 19-inch alloy wheels (in version Ti) and redesigned the door sill trims, making them more massive. Overall, restyled X-Trail began to look more solid, but did not lose practicality: the ground clearance remained at the level 210 mm, and the approach/departure angles are 21°/27° accordingly.

Interior: comfort vs practicality

Inside, the changes turned out to be less radical, but more significant for daily use. Main innovations:

• 📱 Multimedia system: instead of obsolete NissanConnect the first generation introduced a new touch screen system 7" (in versions SV and above - 8") and support Apple CarPlay And Android Auto (since 2019).
• 🪑 Finishing materials: in top trim levels, soft plastics with stitching, artificial leather with improved texture and aluminum-look inserts were used (previously - only “metal-look” plastic).
• 🔧 Ergonomics: a redesigned steering wheel with audio system control buttons, a new CVT selector (without “ears” for manual mode) and a modified climate control panel.

However, not everything is perfect: the owners note that the plastic on the door cards and the center console remains hard, and in the basic versions (S And SV) fabric upholstery of seats without lateral support is still used. But trunk volume hasn't changed - 565 l in standard mode and 1982 l with the rear seats folded (in the version with 7 seats - 445 l).

Technical changes: engines, transmission, suspension

The most important updates affected the “filling” of the crossover. Engineers Nissan We tried to correct the main shortcomings of the pre-restyling version - problems with the variator And diesel noise. Here's what's changed:

Parameter	Before restyling (2014-2017)	After restyling (2017-2023)
Petrol engine 2.5 (QR25DE)	171 hp, 233 Nm	171 hp, 233 Nm (no changes, but the injection system has been modified)
Diesel 1.6 (R9M)	130 hp, 320 Nm (problems with the particulate filter)	130 hp, 320 Nm (updated ECU firmware, modified DPF)
CVT Jatco JF017E	Frequent overheating, jerking during acceleration	New oil NS-3, modified control unit, reinforced belt
Suspension	Soft, but prone to knocking on bumps	Shock absorber stiffness increased by 15%, new silent blocks

Deserves special attention variator Jatco JF017E. In restyled versions he received:

• 🛢️ New transmission oil NS-3 (instead of NS-2), which better resists oxidation and overheating.
• 🔧 Modified control unit with modified switching algorithms (less “thoughtfulness” during sudden acceleration).
• 🔗 Reinforced belt and modified cones, which reduced the risk of slipping.

However, the variator remains a weak point even after restyling — with runs exceeding 150 thousand km, the risk of breakdown remains high. Experts recommend changing the oil every 60 thousand km (instead of regulatory 90 thousand km) and avoid towing trailers weighing more than 1 ton.

What happens if you don’t change the oil in the variator?

When the oil change period is exceeded (more than 100 thousand km), the active formation of metal shavings begins in the JF017E variator, which clogs the solenoids and leads to jerking. In critical cases, the belt may break, which will require replacing the entire variator (cost - from 300 thousand rubles).

Options and equipment: what did the market offer?

After restyling Nissan X-Trail T32 offered in 5 trim levels: S, SV, SV Premium, SL And Ti. The difference between them was not only in the level of equipment, but also in the available options. For example, all-wheel drive All-Mode 4x4-i was only available for versions SV Premium and above, and leather interior - starting from SL.

Let's compare the key options:

Option	S	SV	SL / Ti
Climate control	Single zone	Dual zone	Dual zone with air purifier
Armchairs	Fabric	Fabric/Alcantara	Heated and ventilated leather
Security	6 airbag, ESP	+ 360° camera, parking sensors	+ Adaptive cruise, sign recognition
Multimedia	Screen 5", without CarPlay	Screen 7", CarPlay from 2019	8" screen, Bose premium audio

Interesting fact: in the version Ti (top) offered "Premium" package, which included a panoramic roof, an electric trunk and a system ProPILOT (semi-autonomous driving on the highway). However, on the Russian market these options were extremely rare - most cars were supplied in complete sets SV And SL.

Performance of the variator (test drive with sharp accelerations)|Condition of the particulate filter (for diesel)|Play in the suspension (especially the stabilizer struts)|Functioning of the 360° camera and parking sensors|Presence of traces of corrosion on the sills and arches-->

Weaknesses and typical problems

Despite the improvements, the restyled X-Trail T32 is not without its shortcomings. Here are the most common problems owners face:

• ⚠️ CVT JF017E: even after modifications it remains sensitive to overheating. Symptoms of a malfunction - jerks during acceleration, lamp lighting AT on the dashboard, vibrations at speed 60-80 km/h.
• 🔋 Battery: weak standard battery (capacity 60 Ah) often sits down in winter, especially on short trips. It is recommended to replace it with 70-75 Ah.
• 🔊 Multimedia: in systems with CarPlay (2019+) connection glitches are possible iPhone (connection loss, no sound). It is treated by flashing.
• 🚗 Suspension: knocking in the front suspension after 80 thousand km (wear of stabilizer struts and bushings), as well as leakage of shock absorbers on runs for 120 thousand km.

For diesel versions (1.6 dCi) are characterized by problems with diesel particulate filter (DPF), which gets clogged during urban use. The solution is a regular trip along the highway (at least 30 minutes at higher speeds 80 km/h) or software disabling DPF (illegal in Russia). Diesel is also sensitive to fuel quality - when refueling with low-grade diesel fuel, problems with fuel injectors may occur (replacement cost ranges from 50 thousand rubles. per piece).

⚠️ Attention: During a test drive, be sure to check the operation of the variator in mode Sport (if any). If, when you press the gas sharply, the speed “hangs” at 4-5 thousand rpm more than 2 seconds is a sign of belt or solenoids wear. Such a variator will not last much longer 20-30 thousand km.

Is it worth buying the restyled X-Trail T32 in 2026?

Restyled Nissan X-Trail third generation is a good option for those who are looking for spacious crossover with all-wheel drive and a relatively low price on the secondary market. However, before purchasing, you need to clearly understand for what purposes it is being purchased:

• ✅ Pros:
  • Spacious interior and large trunk (even in the 5-seater version).
  • Good sound insulation (better than Toyota RAV4 the same year).
  • Reliable gasoline engine QR25DE (subject to timely maintenance).
  • Rich equipment in top trim levels (SL/Ti).
• ❌ Cons:
  • The variator requires careful handling and regular maintenance.
  • High fuel consumption in the city (up to 12-14 l/100 km for 2.5 AWD).
  • Expensive maintenance from official dealers (for example, changing the oil in a variator costs 10-15 thousand rubles.).
  • Weak corrosion resistance (risk of rust on the thresholds after 3-4 years of operation).

At a price for 2026, restyled X-Trail T32 (2017-2020) are offered in the range:

• 1.5-1.8 million rub. - versions S/SV with mileage 80-120 thousand km.
• 1.9-2.3 million rub. — configurations SL/Ti with mileage up to 100 thousand km.
• 2.4-2.8 million rub. - cars from 2021-2023 in top versions (often with a guarantee).

Alternatives on the market:

• Toyota RAV4 (XA40) - more reliable, but smaller in interior and more expensive in similar trim levels.
• Mazda CX-5 (KE) — better handling and design, but there is no 7-seater version.
• Hyundai Santa Fe (TM) - cheaper to maintain, but worse in dynamics.

Tips for operation and maintenance

To restyle Nissan X-Trail T32 served for a long time and did not bring unpleasant surprises, follow these recommendations:

1. CVT:
   • Change the oil NS-3 every 60 thousand km (regardless of the regulations).
   • Avoid towing heavy trailers (max. 1 ton).
   • When sitting in traffic jams for long periods of time, switch to N to cool the oil.
2. Engine 2.5:
   • Use oil 5W-30 or 5W-40 with permission Nissan (For example, Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30).
   • Check the oil level every 1000 km — the engine is prone to oil starvation.
3. Diesel 1.6:
   • Fill only with high-quality diesel fuel (preferably at proven gas stations like Lukoil or Gazpromneft).
   • Every 20 thousand km do preventative maintenance of the particulate filter (cleaning or forced regen through diagnostics).
4. Suspension:
   • Check the condition of the stabilizer links every 30 thousand km — they often knock on bumps.
   • When replacing shock absorbers, choose the original one (Nissan 56210-4M000) or Kayaba/Monroe.

Also don't forget about routine maintenance:

• 🔧 Replace the air filter - every 30 thousand km.
• 🔧 Replacement of spark plugs (gasoline) - every 100 thousand km.
• 🔧 Replace brake fluid - every 40 thousand km or 2 years.

⚠️ Attention: If the icon lights up on the dashboard DPF (for diesel), don't ignore it! Further driving without cleaning the filter will lead to the ECU going into emergency mode, and the cost of replacing the DPF is 80-120 thousand rubles..

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan X-Trail T32 restyling

❓ How to distinguish a restyled X-Trail from a pre-restyling one?

Main external signs of restyling (2017+):

• Radiator grille with chrome surround in "V-motion" style.
• LED taillights (dorestyle has lamps).
• New wheels (in version Ti - 19-inch with a different pattern).
• Lack of “ears” on the variator selector (in pre-Restay they were for manual mode).

Also, in the restyled versions there are audio system control buttons on the steering wheel, but in the pre-restyling version there are none.

❓ What kind of oil should I pour into the X-Trail T32 restyling variator?

For CVT Jatco JF017E after restyling (2017+) oil is officially recommended Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3 (article KLE52-00004). Alternatives:

• Mitsubishi DiaQueen CVT-J4 (complete analogue of NS-3).
• Idemitsu CVT Type-J (suitable for severe operating conditions).

Filling volume for complete replacement - 7.9 l, with partial (drain-fill) - 4.5-5 l.

❓ Is it possible to install HBO on X-Trail 2.5?

Installing HBO on QR25DE possible, but has some caveats:

• ✅ Pros: saving on fuel (gas consumption - approx. 12-14 l/100 km against 10-12 l gasoline).
• ❌ Cons:
  • Power reduction by 5-10%.
  • Risk of valve overheating if incorrectly adjusted.
  • Loss of warranty (if the car is under warranty).

It is recommended to install 4th generation HBO with lambda probe emulation (for example, Stag-400 or Lovasato) and configured at an official dealer.

❓ What is the resource of the 1.6 dCi diesel engine in the X-Trail?

Engine Renault-Nissan R9M (1.6 dCi) with proper operation can pass 300-350 thousand km without major repairs. However, for this you need:

• Change oil every 10 thousand km (better - 7.5 thousand km during city driving).
• Use approved oil RN0720 (For example, Total Quartz INEO ECS 5W-30).
• Clean the particulate filter every 20-30 thousand km (or delete it programmatically).
• Avoid short trips (less than 10 km) - this kills the DPF and the turbine.

Diesel weak points:

• Turbine (resource - 150-200 thousand km).
• Fuel injectors (sensitive to the quality of diesel fuel).
• Dual mass flywheel (may fail after 150 thousand km).

❓ What is the most reliable equipment for the X-Trail T32 restyling?

From the point of view of reliability and price/quality ratio, the configuration is considered optimal SV Premium with gasoline engine 2.5 and all-wheel drive. Reasons:

• Availability of key options (dual-zone climate, 360° camera, heated seats).
• Less electronics than SL/Ti (accordingly, less potential breakdowns).
• More affordable price on the secondary market compared to top versions.

If your budget is limited, you might consider SV with front-wheel drive - it is cheaper to maintain (there is no risk of all-wheel drive failure), but less passable.