All-new 2014 Nissan X-Trail SUV unveiled at Frankfurt

Japanese car maker has unveiled the next generation, 2014 X-Trail at the Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany. The 2014 X-Trail is the production version of the Hi-Cross SUV hybrid concept that was showcased at last year's Geneva Motor Show. The 2014 X-Trail will be launched officially in early 2014, with sales to begin from the middle of next year. Nissan does sell the X-Trail in India through the completely built unit (CBU) route and it is likely that the 2014 X-Trail will eventually be launched here as well. 

Stylistically, the 2014 X-Trial ditches the boxy and straight lines of the previous generation model, for a much more curvier form. Sheet metal changes abound and the 2014 X-Trail features a completely revised design. The headlamps are full LED items while the tail lamps are boomerang shaped. LED daytime running lamps and 19 inch alloy wheels are the other major visual changes on this SUV. Nissan also claims that the 2014 X-Trail's shape has been influenced largely by aerodynamics.

Nissan has used a higher amount of plastic to reduce weight and don't be surprised if the 2014 X-Trial, although bigger than the current version, actually ends up being lighter. Dimensions wise, the 2014 X-Trail SUV is bigger than the model it replaces. The SUV is 30 mm longer, 55 mm wider and features a wheelbase of 151 mm. The longer wheelbase also means that Nissan will offer the option of an additional two seats in the third row, making the SUV a seven seater.

The SUV gets a 4 wheel drive system with three modes: front wheel drive, auto (which monitors wheel spin and shifts between 2 wheel drive and 4 wheel drive modes) and four wheel drive with lockable differentials. These modes can be activated on-the-fly through a rotary switch mounted on the dashboard. Three new technologies making it to the 2014 X-Trail include active ride control (terrain adaptive suspension), active engine braking and active trace control. 

The active trace control individually applies variable braking pressure to the four wheels of the X-Trail based on a host of sensor inputs such as steering angle, speed, throttle opening and brake pressure. This system's main purpose is to reduce under steer and make cornering on slippery roads safer. On the inside, the SUV gets completely revised interiors, along with leather seats. The SUV also gets new features in terms of infotainment and satellite navigation.

The new X-Trail is the third generation version of the SUV and is likely to get a petrol-hybrid engine. The 2 liter turbo diesel engine is expected to be significantly tweaked for greater performance and fuel efficiency. Also, the XTRONIC CVT automatic transmission is said to be improved for better response and fuel efficiency. Nissan will release specific details of the power train improvements and dimensions of the 2014 X-Trail closer to the SUV's launch in 2014.