From Awards 2007 issue

List price when tested: £21,495
Kerbweight: 1625-1711kg
85% match: 1369-1454kg
Max towing weight: 2000kg
Towball limit: 100kg
30-60mph: 12.9seconds
30-0mph: 9.7m (solo)

THE SECOND-GENERATION Nissan X-Trail picks up where the original model left off, with rugged looks, a practical cabin and plenty of go-anywhere attitude.

Like its predecessor, the 2007 X-Trail makes a very handy towcar. You can select four-wheel drive when the going gets slippery or choose two-wheel drive for better economy, either way, we found the Nissan towed well, with reassuring stability even in blustery weather.

Hitched up to a suitably matched caravan, the X-Trail accelerated from 30-60mph in 12.9 seconds. Get stuck behind a tractor and you shouldn’t be stuck for long.

Staying on course

Through the emergency lane-change test, the Nissan always stayed on the intended course, although the car leaned over heavily and wasn’t entirely at home. The hill start was more to the X-Trail’s liking. It pulled up the 1-in-10 slope easily without wheelspin or having to slip the clutch. We reversed up the same hill without any problem.

Driven solo the X-Trail doesn’t feel as agile as the old car, although ride comfort has improved. There’s more space for rear-seat passengers, too, although not as much as you’ll find in a Honda CR-V.

The Nissan edges most of its rivals for luggage room, however. There are 603 litres with the seats upright, and 1773 litres when they’re folded down. That’s enough space to rival many estate cars.

Compared with some 4x4s, fuel economy could be better. Expect 39.8mpg, according to official figures. Around our towing economy route the X-Trail managed a respectable 23.8mpg. Good resale values help make a new X-Trail a sound buy.

We say
Towing: 4/5
Solo: 4/5
Practicality: 4/5
Buying & owning: 4/5

Verdict: 4/5 – A rugged, practical 4×4 and a strong tug.

Find out more about this car at www.whatcar.com