Rumour: Nissan India to CKD assemble the 2014 X-Trail?

Nissan unveiled the all-new 2014 X-Trail at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show. The SUV is likely to be made available with two turbo diesel engine options: 1.6 liter and 2 liter DCi units. A petrol-hybrid engine is also said to be in the scheme of things. The 2014 X-Trail will be the first Nissan product to embrace the common modular family (CMF) architecture, an approach that will allow the Renault-Nissan automaking alliance to mix and match parts, and platforms across car categories.

According to AutocarIndia, Nissan India could look at assembling the 3rd generation, 2014 X-Trail here through the completely knocked down (CKD) kit route. Currently, the 2nd generation model of the X-Trail is imported into India through the completely built unit (CBU) route, a factor that has resulted in steep pricing and poor sales. With CKD assembly, the 2014 X-Trail is likely to feature a more competitive price tag and the SUV is due for an international launch early next year.

The 2014 X-Trail comes with a revised design that is inspired by the new-family look of Nissan SUVs. The SUV also gets larger with the overall dimensions including the wheelbase showing significant increases. The larger dimensions have allowed Nissan to add an extra row of seats at the rear, making the 2014 X-Trail a 7 seater. Despite its larger size in comparison to the outgoing model, the 2014 X-Trail could emerge lighter due to the extensive use of light weight materials. 

New technologies on the SUV include active ride control (adaptive suspension), active trace control and active engine braking. Globally, both front wheel drive and all wheel drive versions will be made available. Materials on the inside of the 2014 X-Trail have been upgraded to endow the SUV's interiors with a more-premium feel. More details of the 2014 X-Trail will be revealed in the coming months, in the run up to the SUV's international launch.