The revised SUV features the bold and broad new version of the company’s corporate V-motion grille, as well as revised headlights, new front and rear bumpers, and revised tail-light graphics. New additions to the range include 19-inch alloy wheels on top-end models, and an automatic tailgate that’s operated via a motion sensor under the rear bumper. On the safety front, the revised Rogue gains the option of adaptive cruise control, and forward emergency braking with pedestrian detection.
The seven-seater Nissan X-Trail is currently the biggest SUV the firm builds. It’s a good-looking family car that rivals the Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento and the Skoda Kodiaq. The X-Trail’s interior has a similar design to the one found in the Nissan Qashqai, so it’s simple to use if a little uninspiring to look at, and the car’s standard five-inch touchscreen display means there isn’t a sea buttons to contend with. While there is plenty or room for five adults inside, the two seats that fold out from the boot are best reserved for children. Even with them in place, though, the X-Trail has enough boot space for a few suitcases.
Pros Comfortable Well-equipped Decent off-road
Cons Third row seats are a bit cramped Not exactly head-turning looks CVT automatic is not as good as rivals with DSG
Genuinely capable 4x4 can seat seven and tow big loads.
PROS Tough, rugged and reliable workhorse Far better than previous model Huge boot in five-seat mode Seven-seat version available CONS Ride can be choppy Not much engine/gearbox choice Relatively unknown brand Low fuel economy and high tax
The Rexton is a well-priced SUV that has a lot of boot space for the money and can carry seven people. Reviews are fairly poor though since it’s not good to drive, noisy and has a dull image. It is one of the cheapest ways to move large loads and more people than usual however, so if you’re in that market then it’s worth a look.
Pros Good off-road Practical Long warranty
Cons Poor ride Noisy Outdated
The Rexton’s four-wheel drive system spends most of its life driving the rear wheels only, diverting power to the front when conditions get more slippery. In most of the cars sold in the UK it will be controlled through a Mercedes-sourced seven-speed automatic transmission - but a six-speed manual is likely to be offered on entry-level editions. The dashboard has a clean look - again, with some cues from the Tivoli - but cross-stitched material panels and Nappa leather add a touch of luxury. The equipment on offer will include dual-zone climate control, a powered rear tailgate that opens automatically when the keyholder has been standing behind it for three seconds, and a new level of safety kit for SsangYong, including nine airbags and rear cross-traffic alert.
