KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 25 — Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM) has unveiled the all-new third-generation Nissan X-Trail crossover SUV, and this time they have put back the 3-Mode Terrain switch, which it now calls the 4x4-I system for the higher-spec model, an item sorely missed by X-Trail enthusiasts when it was omitted in the second-generation model.

The 4x4-I system includes Hill Descent Control. In addition, the new Nissan X-Trail has two additional third-row seats that convert it into a seven-seater in a matter of seconds.

With the looks to regain lost momentum in its hotly contested segment.

With a more attractive and contemporary silhouette, and more upmarket specifications, Nissan looks set to regain its lost momentum to become the number one in this hotly contested market.

The 3-Mode terrain switch, available only in the 2.5-litre top-of-the-range model, enables the driver to select 2WD, which keeps the X-Trail in front-wheel-drive mode and enjoy more fuel efficiency; AUTO mode has the X-Trail in front-wheel drive whenever the vehicle is moving in a straight line, and drive to the rear wheels kick in automatically when required, such as when the vehicle is in a corner, thus according more overall grip. The third mode is “LOCK”, which when selected locks the X-Trail in permanent all-wheel drive, a feature very useful for wet conditions or when traversing terrain with poor traction.

Available in two variants, the new X-Trail is priced at RM142,800 on the road with insurance for its 2.0 2WD model and RM165,800 for its 2.5 4WD model. Pre-launch bookings had opened since December, and right up till launch date, ETCM has amassed over 1,300 bookings.

Mr. Tan Keng Meng, director of marketing and product planning said: “The previous generation X-Trails were such icons for SUV and crossover fans here, with more than 19,000 units on the road since ETCM first launched it in 2003. The completely redesigned All-New X-Trail combines Nissan's acclaimed 4x4 heritage with fresh ideas, premium styling and groundbreaking technologies.”

All-new appearance for the X-Trail available in two variants.

Sporting an all-new appearance, the new X-Trail takes on a number of new Nissan signature cues such as the boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights, the V-shaped grille and rear combination lamps. Roof rails and standard 17-inch alloys complete the appearance. The 2.5 4WD model additionally gets LED headlights.

Assembled locally at the Tan Chong Motor Assemblies (TCMA) plant in Serendah, the new X-Trail boasts a number of technologies that are unique in its class, many of them surprisingly standard even in the 2.0 2WD model as well.

The all-new X-Trail comes with a comprehensive range of safety features that include hill-start assist, dual airbags, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS) with Active Brake-Limited Slip (ABLS), anti-lock brakes (ABS), and electronic brake force distribution (EBD).

Fitted to the X-Trail is an Active Chassis Control package that consists of three key systems — Active Ride Control moderates pitching motion on uneven roads by controlling engine torque and brakes; Active Engine Brake holds the transmission at lower ratios to enhance engine braking while cornering or stopping; and Active Trace Control automatically applies small amounts of braking force on individual wheels to minimise understeer.

Another class-leading feature of the new X-Trail is its 360-degree Around View Monitor, which uses a network of four cameras to stitch together a virtual bird's-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings and project the image on a screen. On the instrument panel, drivers can keep track on the vehicle’s various driver assist systems through a five-inch Advanced Drive Assist Display screen.

The 2.5 4WD variant is powered by the QR25DE-k2 Twin CVTC engine pushing out 171PS at 6,000rpm and 233Nm at 4,000rpm.

The 2.0 2WD version comes with the MR20DD petrol direct injection engine also equipped with Twin CVTC generating 144PS at 6,000rpm and 200Nm at 4,400rpm for its front wheels. Both models come fitted with Nissan’s latest-generation X-Tronic CVT as standard. Notable features of the transmission include an Eco mode for better fuel efficiency and seven-speed manual mode for use in more exuberant driving conditions.