The current X-Trail, which made its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2013 (the US version is the Nissan Rogue), is built on the jointly-developed Nissan/Renault Common Module Family (CMF) platform. The current generation has garnered good reviews from customers for its driving performance, realized by features such as its ALL MODE 4X4-i system and advanced chassis control technologies as well as a variety of safety features such as Emergency Brake and Around View Monitor with Intelligent Parking Assist.

The hybrid. The hybrid system utilizes a front-wheel-drive version of Nissan’s one-motor two-clutch parallel hybrid “Intelligent Dual Clutch Control” system. To support front-wheel drive vehicles, Nissan took the technologies of the original 1M2CL system and combined them with an XTRONIC CVT. The clutches and motor are installed co-axially in the space of the torque converter.

• The RM31 electric motor delivers maximum power output of 30 kW (40 hp) and maximum torque of 160 N·m (118 lb-ft).

• The 2.0-liter MR20DD engine, which is optimized along with the hybrid system, improves its fundamental performance by removing an auxiliary belt and adopting a low-friction oil seal. Maximum power is 108 kW (145 hp) @ 6000 rpm with maximum torque of 207 N·m (153 lb-ft).

The overall improved system also helps achieve fuel economy gains. The XTRONIC combined with the engine adopts the same step shift control as gasoline vehicles have, which contributes to superior fuel efficiency and strong acceleration.

The high-output lithium-ion battery is able to charge/discharge quickly. This contributes to high-speed, precise control of the electric motor and optimum clutch control, which both enable smooth start and quick shift changes. Due to the battery’s compactness, the new hybrid X-Trail realizes a luggage capacity of more than 400 liters (14 cubic feet) based on the VDA method, equivalent to that of gasoline vehicles.

The two-clutch system, which delivers engine and motor energy mechanically to the transmission without having a motor assist or a torque converter, delivers responsive starts and acceleration. It generates more torque than a 2.5-liter gasoline engine in all speed ranges, from low to high rpm. Even while traveling up a steep slope, excellent power is achieved by combining both motor and engine power outputs.

In Japan, the new X-Trail Hybrid achieves fuel economy of 20.6 km/L (48 mpg US, 4.85 l/100 km) in JC08 mode and the 2020 fuel economy standards in every grade. Also, all the grades of the new X-Trail Hybrid achieve a 75% reduction of NO_x and NMHC (non-methane hydrocarbons) in exhaust emissions over 2005 standards and SU-LEV certification.

Additionally, the NissanConnect Navigation System in-car navigation, information and entertainment system with smartphone link application is applied to the model for the first time.

In time for this hybrid model launch, a PTC (positive thermal coefficient) ceramic element heater (5kW) will be available for the X-Trail equipped with the gasoline engine as a manufacturer option, which goes on sale in July. The heater enables to heat a cabin in less than half the time it takes only with an existing water heater.

Prices for the X-Trail Hybrid will start at US$23,554 (¥2,804,760).