Crossover selection Nissan X-Trail T31 (2007–2013) is often accompanied by questions about its actual dimensions - especially when it comes to height, taking into account roof rails. This detail is critical not only for parking in low garages or underground parking lots, but also for installing boxes, trunks or fastening sports equipment. The manufacturer indicates the height of the car without additional accessories, but it is important for owners to know the exact figures “assembled”.
In this article we will analyze the official data, the results of owner measurements and the nuances that affect the final height X-Trail T31. You will learn how factory roof rails change the dimensions of the crossover, what errors are made during measurements, and how this affects the choice of accessories for the roof. Also, let’s compare the T31 with other generations X-Trail and give practical advice on operation.
Official data: height of Nissan X-Trail T31 without roof rails
According to technical documentation Nissan, height X-Trail T31 (depending on the configuration and sales market) is:
- 📏 1685 mm - for models with drive
2WD(front-wheel drive); - 📏 1710 mm - for versions with all-wheel drive
4WD(due to increased ground clearance).
These figures are relevant for cars excluding roof rails, antenna and additional accessories. It is important to understand that even within the same generation, height may vary slightly due to different tire sizes, suspension, or optional body components (such as relief moldings).
The manufacturer does not indicate the height with roof rails in the official specifications, so owners have to rely on independent measurements or dealer data. According to the experience of service centers, the difference between a “bare” roof and a roof with roof rails is from 25 to 40 mm - depending on the type of fastenings and the design of the roof rails themselves.
- Front (2WD)
- Full (4WD)
- I don't know
Actual height with roof rails: owner measurements
On forums and owner communities X-Trail T31 Collective measurements of the height of cars with installed roof rails are regularly carried out. The average results look like this:
| Railing type | Height without rails (mm) | Height with rails (mm) | Gain (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Factory (aluminum, low profile) | 1685–1710 | 1710–1735 | 25–30 |
| Universal (steel, high) | 1685–1710 | 1730–1750 | 40–45 |
| Sports (carbon, streamlined) | 1685–1710 | 1705–1725 | 20–25 |
As can be seen from the table, maximum height X-Trail T31 with roof rails can reach 1750 mm - this is 65 mm more than the basic version with all-wheel drive. This difference is critical when:
- 🚪 Entering garages with low gates (standard gate height is 1900–2100 mm, but in old houses it can be 1750–1800 mm);
- 🚗 Driving under bridges or restrictions in parking lots (especially in Europe, where the limit is often 1800 mm);
- 🏔️ Installation of roof boxes (some models require a margin of 30–50 mm for opening).
⚠️ Attention: When measuring height, take into account not only the roof rails, but also fasteners (e.g. rubber pads or brackets). They can add up to 10mm to the final figure.
Comparison with other generations of X-Trail: how the height changed
If you are considering X-Trail T31 on the secondary market or comparing it with other generations, it is useful to know how the dimensions of the model have evolved. Below is a comparison table of heights X-Trail in different bodies (excluding roof rails):
| Generation | Years of production | Height 2WD (mm) | 4WD Height (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| T30 (first) | 2000–2007 | 1650 | 1675 |
| T31 (second) | 2007–2013 | 1685 | 1710 |
| T32 (third) | 2013–2021 | 1710 | 1735 |
X-Trail T31 became higher than its predecessor by 10–35 mm, which is associated with a change in design (more massive body) and an increase in ground clearance in 4WD versions. At the same time T32 grew by another 25 mm due to modern safety requirements (reinforced roof pillars) and styling (higher wheel arches).
If you are planning to buy roof rails or roof racks for growth, keep in mind that accessories for T31 may not approach T32 due to differences in roof width and shape of fastenings. For example, the distance between the rails at T31 amounts to 1100–1150 mm, and T32 - already 1200–1250 mm.
Before purchasing roof rails or boxes, check their compatibility with your generation X-Trail by VIN code. Some manufacturers (for example, Thule or Hapro) offer online selection by car model.
How to correctly measure the height of your X-Trail T31
To avoid errors in measurements, follow this algorithm:
Prepare a level area with no slope|Use a laser or a tape measure with an assistant|Measure from the ground to the highest point of the roof rails (usually the center part)|Repeat the measurement at 3-4 points (front, rear, sides)|Subtract the height of the tires if they are non-standard-->
Typical errors in measurements:
- 📉 Ignoring suspension deflection (measure on a flat surface, without passengers or cargo);
- 🔍 Pass fasteners (for example, bolts or rubber seals of roof rails);
- 🚗 Measurements from non-standard tires (winter tires or lifted suspension will distort the result).
If you do not have the opportunity to take measurements yourself, contact the service Nissan - they have special templates for determining the height, taking into account all the accessories. An alternative is to use a 3D scanner (for example, in a tuning studio), which will provide accurate dimensions with an error of up to 1 mm.
⚠️ Attention: When installing roof rack the height of the car will increase by another 300–500 mm. Take this into account when planning routes with low bridges or parking lots.
The influence of roof rails on operation: what you need to know
Installation of roof rails X-Trail T31 not only changes the height, but also affects other aspects of operation:
- Aerodynamics and fuel consumption. Even low-profile roof rails increase drag, which can increase fuel consumption.
0.2–0.5 l/100 kmat speeds above 90 km/h. When installing the box, the increase reaches1–1.5 l/100 km. - Noisy. Cheap or improperly installed roof rails create a whistling sound at high speeds. The solution is aero fairings or special linings (for example, from Hapro).
- Center of gravity. The weight on the roof raises the center of mass, which affects cornering control. Maximum load on rails T31 — 75 kg (indicated in the manual).
If you frequently transport bulky items, consider alternatives:
- 🚙 Trailer: Does not affect vehicle height, but requires category
B/E; - 📦 Towbar rack: Suitable for bicycles or skis, does not change dimensions;
- 🏠 Roof case: Less aerodynamic than boxing, but cheaper.
Roof rails X-Trail T31 They raise the height by 25–40 mm, but their main effect is on aerodynamics and load capacity. Always check that accessories are compatible with your setup.
Choosing roof rails for X-Trail T31: what to look for
There are three types of roof rails on the market for X-Trail T31:
| Type | Material | Weight (kg) | Max. load (kg) | Price (RUB) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Factory (OEM) | Aluminum | 3.5–4.0 | 75 | 12 000–18 000 |
| Universal | Steel/aluminum | 5.0–6.5 | 50–60 | 6 000–10 000 |
| Sports | Carbon/composite | 2.0–3.0 | 50 | 20 000–35 000 |
When choosing, consider:
- 🔧 Mounting method: Factory roof rails are attached to standard points on the roof (the holes are closed with plugs). Universal ones require drilling or the use of clamps, which can damage the paintwork;
- 💰 Price/quality ratio: Cheap steel roof rails rust and make noise, aluminum ones last longer but are more expensive;
- 📏 Length: Standard length for T31 —
1200–1300 mm. Short roof rails (up to 1000 mm) will limit the possibilities of securing cargo.
If you plan to transport skis, bicycles or luggage boxes, give preference to roof rails with T-profile (For example, Thule WingBar or Hapro StreamLine). They allow you to quickly mount accessories without additional adapters.
Where to buy original roof rails for X-Trail T31?
Original roof rails Nissan (article 77110-4M000/77110-4M001) can be ordered from official dealers or at the following sites:
- Exist.ru (price ~15,000 rubles per set);
- Emex.ru (delivery from Japan is possible);
- Avito/Drom (used options from RUB 8,000).
Before purchasing, check compatibility by VIN or year of manufacture - roof rails for the restyled version (2010–2013) may have different fastenings.
Owner Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to install roof rails with X-Trail T32 on T31?
No, the roof rails are attached T31 And T32 different. U T32 the roof is wider, the mounting points are different, and the distance between the roof rails is 100–150 mm greater. Using incompatible roof rails will result in improper load distribution and risk damage to the roof.
What is the maximum load that can be transported on roof rails? X-Trail T31?
The manufacturer indicates the maximum load in 75 kg (evenly distributed). However, this value is only relevant for factory roof rails. For universal models the limit is usually lower - 50–60 kg. Excessive load may result in deformation of the roof or fastenings.
Do roof rails affect roof corrosion?
Yes, if the roof rails are installed incorrectly or without protective pads. Moisture can accumulate at the mounting points, which leads to rust. To avoid the problem:
- Use roof rails with rubber seals;
- Periodically remove the roof rails to process the fasteners anticorrosive (For example, Molykote);
- Avoid high pressure washing in the fastening area.
Is it possible to drive with empty roof rails in winter?
It is possible, but this will increase fuel consumption and noise. If the roof rails are not in use, it is better to remove them. An alternative is to close the profile with special plugs (for example, Thule AirScreen), which will reduce air resistance.
Which racks are suitable for X-Trail T31 with roof rails?
For X-Trail T31 racks with mounting on a T-shaped profile are suitable (for example, Thule Motion XT, Hapro SkyBox) or universal models with clamps (for example, Mont Blanc). The main thing is to check:
- Maximum load (no more than 75 kg);
- The width of the trunk (should not protrude beyond the dimensions of the car);
- Compatible with roof rail shape (some boxes require adapters).