Crossover Nissan X-Trail The 2021 model year was a logical continuation of the successful line, combining proven technical solutions with modern technologies. This model has consolidated its position in the family SUV segment thanks to the optimal ratio of price, comfort and off-road capabilities. In 2021, the manufacturer updated the external design, improved equipment and offered new options for the Russian market.

Particular attention is paid in this generation efficiency And security. Engineers have finalized the range of engines, optimizing fuel consumption without loss of power, and the system ProPILOT received advanced driver assistance functions. At the same time X-Trail retains the legendary reliability of the platform CMF-C/D, on which they are also built Renault Koleos And Mitsubishi Outlander.

In this review we will look at everything in detail technical specifications, compare the configurations, analyze the actual fuel consumption and highlight the key differences from previous versions. We will pay special attention to the questions that are most often of interest to potential buyers: which engine to choose, whether to buy all-wheel drive, and what options are really necessary for comfortable operation.

Technical characteristics of engines and transmissions

Line of power units Nissan X-Trail 2021 in Russia it is represented by three main options: two gasoline and one diesel engine. All of them comply with environmental standards Euro 5, and gasoline versions are adapted to work on AI-92 And AI-95.

Considered basic 2.0-liter naturally aspirated MR20DD 144 hp, which is combined with Xtronic CVT. This engine is optimal for city use, but has limitations when fully loaded or towing. A more dynamic solution was 2.5 liter QR25DE at 171 hp — it is offered with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive ALL MODE 4x4-i.

Available for lovers of diesel engines 1.6-liter turbodiesel R9M with a power of 130 hp, developing an impressive torque of 320 Nm already from 1750 rpm. This unit is especially popular among those who often drive on the highway or operate the car in off-road conditions.

  • 🔧 2.0 MR20DD — 144 hp, 200 Nm, consumption 7.2 l/100 km (mixed)
  • ⚡ 2.5 QR25DE — 171 hp, 233 Nm, consumption 8.1 l/100 km (all-wheel drive)
  • ⛽ 1.6 R9M dCi — 130 hp, 320 Nm, consumption 5.3 l/100 km (diesel)

All versions are equipped stepless variator with a manual shift mode that simulates 7 fixed gears. All-wheel drive system ALL MODE 4x4-i has three operating modes: Auto (automatic torque distribution), Lock (fixed 50:50 split) and 2WD (forced front-wheel drive to save fuel).

📊 Which engine would you choose for the 2021 X-Trail?
  • 2.0 petrol (144 hp)
  • 2.5 petrol (171 hp)
  • 1.6 diesel (130 hp)
  • I haven't decided yet

Dimensions, ground clearance and load capacity

Nissan X-Trail 2021 belongs to the class of mid-size crossovers, but thanks to its thoughtful interior layout it offers space comparable to larger models. Body length is 4690 mm, width - 1830 mm, and the height varies from 1710 to 1740 mm depending on the configuration and the presence of roof rails.

One of the key parameters for Russian buyers is ground clearance (ground clearance). In standard configuration it is equal to 210 mm, which is 10 mm more than the previous generation. This allows you to confidently overcome city curbs and light off-road conditions. When fully loaded, the clearance decreases to 190 mm, but the system Active Ride Control automatically adjusts the suspension to minimize roll.

Parameter Meaning Note
Wheelbase 2705 mm Provides a spacious interior
Trunk volume 565 l / 1982 l With second row seats folded
Curb weight 1520–1680 kg Depending on motor and drive
Max. towing capacity 1500–2000 kg 2.5-liter version with all-wheel drive

Maximum lifting capacity is 500 kg for front-wheel drive versions and 450 kg for all-wheel drive. It is important to take into account that the weight of passengers is also included in this limit. For example, if there are 5 people of average build (≈75 kg each) in the cabin, the remainder for luggage will be only 125–175 kg.

⚠️ Attention: When installing a towbar, the permissible weight of the trailer is reduced by 10–15%. To tow trailers weighing more than 1.5 tons, a trailer brake system is required.

Options and equipment

In 2021 Nissan X-Trail on the Russian market it was offered in five basic trim levels: Comfort, Elegance, Elegance+, Tekna And Tekna Premium. Each of them has a unique set of options, but even the basic version is equipped with modern security and multimedia systems.

Equipment Comfort includes:

  • 🎵 6 speakers, Bluetooth, USB And Aux
  • 🔐 Central locking with remote control
  • 🌡️ Climate control (single zone)
  • 🚗 17-inch steel wheels

Top version Tekna Premium adds:

  • 🎶 Premium audio system Bose with 9 speakers
  • 👁️ Surround camera Around View Monitor
  • 🪑 Seats with ventilation and memory settings
  • 🔋 Wireless charging for smartphones

The system deserves special attention NissanConnect with 8-inch touch screen, supporting Apple CarPlay And Android Auto. In versions Tekna and above, navigation with offline maps and voice control is added. Optional package available ProPILOT, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist and traffic jam assist.

CVT operation (smooth acceleration, no jerking)

Suspension condition (knocks, play in the steering)

Electronics functionality (cameras, parking sensors)

Integrity of paintwork (especially on arches and sills) -->

Real fuel consumption and dynamics

Fuel consumption figures declared by the manufacturer often differ from actual figures. According to the results of tests by owners and independent experts, 2.0 liter engine in the urban cycle consumes 9.5–11 l/100 km instead of the declared 8.3 liters. On the highway, consumption drops to 6.5–7.5 l/100 km, which is close to the passport data.

2.5 liter version with all-wheel drive shows the following results:

  • 🏙️ City: 11.5–13 l/100 km (9.8 l stated)
  • 🛣️ Highway: 7.5–8.5 l/100 km (6.9 l declared)
  • 🔄 Combined cycle: 9.0–10 l/100 km

Diesel 1.6 R9M demonstrates better efficiency:

  • 🏙️ City: 6.5–7.5 l/100 km
  • 🛣️ Highway: 4.8–5.5 l/100 km
  • 🔄 Combined cycle: 5.5–6.2 l/100 km

Dynamic characteristics also depend on the engine type:

  • 🐢 2.0 MR20DD: acceleration to 100 km/h in 10.8 s
  • ⚡ 2.5 QR25DE: acceleration to 100 km/h in 9.7 s (all-wheel drive)
  • 💨 1.6 R9M dCi: acceleration to 100 km/h in 11.0 s (but better traction at low revs)
⚠️ Attention: When operating on fuel AI-92 engines QR25DE And MR20DD may demonstrate increased consumption (up to +1 l/100 km) and a decrease in power by 3–5%. Manufacturer recommends AI-95 for optimal performance.
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To reduce fuel consumption on the X-Trail 2021, use the Eco Mode — it reacts more softly to the gas pedal and optimizes the operation of the variator. The effect is especially noticeable in the urban cycle (savings up to 0.7 l/100 km).

Safety and driver assistance systems

Nissan X-Trail 2021 got maximum 5 stars in crash tests Euro NCAP (2017), and this assessment remains relevant for the restyled version. The body is equipped with programmable deformation zones, and the standard package includes 6 airbags, including a knee airbag for the driver and curtains for the rear passengers.

Active safety systems include:

  • 🚦 Forward Emergency Braking (automatic emergency braking)
  • 👁️ Blind Spot Warning (blind spot monitoring)
  • 🚗 Lane Departure Warning (preventing lane departure)
  • 💡 Intelligent Auto Headlights (automatic headlight switching)

In versions Tekna And Tekna Premium package available ProPILOT, which combines:

  • 🤖 Adaptive cruise control with function Stop & Go
  • 🛣️ Lane keeping system with steering correction
  • 🚦 Hill start assistance
  • 🅿️ Automatic parking (parallel and perpendicular)

The system is especially useful Around View Monitor, which creates a virtual top view using four cameras. This makes maneuvering in tight yards and parking much easier. It is important to note that all electronic assistants can be turned off using buttons on the center console if their operation seems redundant.

How does ProPILOT work in traffic jams?

In mode Stop & Go the car automatically maintains a distance from the vehicle ahead, until it comes to a complete stop. When movement resumes (up to 3 seconds), the X-Trail moves off independently. If the pause lasts longer, a light touch of the gas pedal or button is sufficient. Resume on the steering wheel. The system operates up to speeds of 140 km/h, but is optimal in the range of 30–100 km/h.

Owner reviews and typical problems

According to reviews from Russian owners, Nissan X-Trail 2021 demonstrates high reliability, but has several characteristic features. Among the advantages most often noted:

  • ✅ Spacious interior and comfortable seats (especially in versions with leather trim)
  • ✅ Smooth operation of the variator (with timely maintenance)
  • ✅ Good noise insulation at speeds above 90 km/h
  • ✅ Reliable all-wheel drive in snow and mud

Typical problems include:

  • ⚠️ Increased engine oil consumption QR25DE (up to 1 l per 5000 km)
  • ⚠️ Diesel engine noise R9M when cold
  • ⚠️ Rapid wear of the front brake pads (with aggressive driving style)
  • ⚠️ Fogging of headlights in rainy weather (solved by treating with sealant)

Many owners recommend:

  • 🔧 Change the oil in the variator every 60,000 km (despite the declared resource of 120,000 km)
  • 🔋 Use original spark plugs NGK ILZKAR8B11 for gasoline engines
  • 🌡️ Flush the cooling system every 3 years (especially when operating in cities with hard water)
⚠️ Attention: When operating on fuel with an octane rating lower AI-92 (For example, AI-80) an error may appear P0300 (multiple misfires). In this case, it is necessary to reset the ECU adaptations via the diagnostic scanner.

Comparison with competitors

In the mid-size crossover segment Nissan X-Trail 2021 competes with models such as Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Santa Fe And Kia Sorento. Compared to them X-Trail stands out for its more spacious interior and flexible seat transformation system.

Parameter Nissan X-Trail Toyota RAV4 Mazda CX-5
Trunk volume (l) 565 580 442
Max. power (hp) 171 204 (hybrid) 194
Ground clearance (mm) 210 195 210
Price (from/to, RUB million) 2.5–3.8 2.7–3.9 2.6–3.7

Main advantages X-Trail before competitors:

  • 💺 Possibility of installing a third row of seats (optional for the 7-seater version)
  • 🔄 More reliable all-wheel drive ALL MODE 4x4-i compared to plug-in RAV4
  • 💰 Lower cost of service (according to service centers for 2023)

Disadvantages often mentioned include:

  • 📉 Less dynamic acceleration compared to turbocharged competitors
  • 🎨 More conservative interior design (compared to Mazda CX-5)
  • 🔋 Lack of a hybrid version (unlike Toyota RAV4)
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Nissan X-Trail 2021 is the optimal choice for those who value space, reliability and all-wheel drive. It loses to its competitors in dynamics, but wins in practicality and cost of ownership.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the 2021 Nissan X-Trail

Which engine is better to choose for the city: 2.0 or 2.5?

For predominantly urban use 2.0 liter engine (MR20DD) will be more economical and sufficient in power. It is cheaper to maintain and has lower fuel consumption. However, if you often drive with a full load or on the highway, it is better to consider 2.5 liter version (QR25DE) - she behaves more confidently when overtaking and climbing.

Please note that the 2.5-liter engine is more sensitive to fuel quality and requires AI-95 for optimal performance.

Is it worth taking the diesel version 1.6 R9M?

Diesel 1.6 R9M Ideal for those who do a lot of highway driving or towing a trailer. Its main advantages are low fuel consumption (5.3–6.5 l/100 km) and high torque (320 Nm), available from low revs. However, there are also disadvantages:

  • Higher maintenance costs (oil change every 10,000 km, fuel filter every 20,000 km)
  • Sensitivity to the quality of diesel fuel (it is recommended to refuel at proven gas stations)
  • Noisier operation in cold weather (especially in winter)

If your annual mileage exceeds 20,000 km, diesel will pay for itself in 3-4 years. For city use, it is better to choose the gasoline version.

What kind of oil should I put in the X-Trail 2021 variator?

The manufacturer recommends using original liquid Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3 (article KE909-99932). Analogs (for example, Idemitsu CVTF or Ravenol CVT) can only be used if it is impossible to purchase the original.

Oil volume in the variator - 7.9 l (with complete replacement). Important: partial replacement (3–4 l) is allowed only as a temporary measure. A complete change of the variator oil and filters must be carried out every 60,000 km, despite the declared resource of 120,000 km.

How to enable Lock all-wheel drive mode?

Mode Lock (hard locking of the center differential) is activated by a button on the center console. It only works at speeds up to 40 km/h and automatically turns off when this threshold is exceeded or after 2-3 minutes of continuous operation.

To enable:

  1. Make sure the vehicle is stationary or moving at less than 10 km/h.
  2. Click the button LOCK (the indicator on it will light up).
  3. A message will appear on the instrument panel 4WD LOCK.

Use this mode only to overcome difficult areas (mud, snow, sand). Constant driving in Lock on hard surfaces is harmful to the transmission.

What to do if the “CVT Service” icon lights up on the dashboard?

Message CVT Service Required or an icon in the form of a gearbox with an exclamation point indicates that the CVT needs to be serviced. The reasons may be different:

  • The mileage since the last oil change exceeded 60,000 km.
  • The ECU has detected increased wear of the CVT elements (for example, due to an aggressive driving style).
  • Low oil level or contamination.

🔧 Actions:

  1. Check the oil level in the variator (should be between the marks MIN And MAX on the dipstick).
  2. If the oil is dark or has a burning smell, immediately contact a service center for diagnostics.
  3. Reset the service interval through the on-board computer menu (Settings → Maintenance → Reset).

Ignoring this signal may result in CVT breakdown, the repair of which will cost 200,000–400,000 rubles.