Nissan just revealed the X-Trail for its home market of Japan. The SUV, known as the Rogue in North America, finally gets a dose of electrification. Called the Nissan X-Trail e-Power, it uses the brand’s series hybrid setup where the engine acts as a generator. Only the electric motor(s) motivate the vehicle.
The second-generation e-Power system first appeared on the Qashqai e-Power. That model uses the 1.5-liter VC-Turbo three-cylinder coupled to a small lithium-ion battery and an electric motor. It makes 188 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque going through the front wheels. The version found in the X-Trail adds a second electric motor on the rear axle with 67 hp and 74 lb-ft.
Nissan added the e-4ORCE AWD system from the Ariya to the X-Trail, making this the first hybrid to use the feature. This allows for more precise power delivery by controlling acceleration, cornering, and braking. In turn, the car improved traction, ride comfort, and handling. The e-Pedal feature is now in the X-Trail e-Power. Like in battery-electric vehicles, it enables stronger energy regeneration and some degree of one-pedal driving capability. However, in the hybrids, it won’t bring you to a complete stop. That means you need to use the brakes to get come to a standstill.
Nissan X-Trail e-Power: More Premium Appointments
In addition to the standard model, Nissan also showed off two other versions of the X-Trail e-Power. This includes a rugged model and a luxury-oriented iteration called the Autech. For instance, the latter adds unique alloy wheels and lots of silver trim. Furthermore, the interior includes Nappa leather upholstery with contrast stitching and/or two-tone layouts.
Additionally, the Japanese market X-Trail e-Power gets unique features like a 100-volt AC outlet. It generates a maximum of 1,500 watts, enabling you to use the vehicle as a backup power source. Japan also gets a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen instead of the 9.0-inch unit found in the North American-spec Rogue.
When Will It Come to North America?
The X-Trail e-Power gives the world the first glimpse of the next electrified Rogue. However, this system may not be the one that makes its way across the Pacific to North America. Considering this market’s penchant for highway driving, we may receive a version of the new hybrid system found in the Juke and upcoming Mitsubishi Outlander Sport/ASX instead. That should swap in the 1.5-liter VC-Turbo I-3 in place of a naturally-aspirated1.6-liter four-cylinder. When will it arrive? That remains unknown but hopefully soon as more automakers double down on electrification.
Source: Nissan
