CAR /
FEATURES
December 8, 2025
Two connoisseurs discuss their choice: the X-TRAIL. The true value of a genuine SUV that blends toughness with elegance.
Presented by NISSANDiscovering True Capability on Winding Roads
Upon arriving at the Hakone Turnpike, Shimashita prompts Kubokawa to take the driver's seat of the X-TRAIL. This is Kubokawa's first time driving the X-TRAIL equipped with e-4ORCE on a winding road.
"It's incredibly smooth. We're currently going up a relatively steep slope, but I don't even feel like we're climbing." Kubokawa's surprise has a reason. The motor delivers strong torque from low RPMs, so the X-TRAIL climbs powerfully and quietly even on the steep Hakone Turnpike.
"It has power, and the engine doesn't strain. It feels like the car is driving effortlessly, which brings a fresh sense of joy," says Shimashita. Even for Shimashita, who has test-driven countless cars, this smoothness and quietness were impressive.
Prompted by Shimashita, Kubokawa turns the drive mode selector to Sport mode. "I thought it was already good, but it's even smoother and more powerful now." Following Shimashita's suggestion to "try releasing the accelerator and then pressing it again," Kubokawa is surprised by the immediate surge of torque. This is due to the quick accelerator response characteristic of electric motors.
"As we discussed in the city, by precisely controlling the four tires, the car optimally distributes driving force simply by the driver turning the steering wheel," says Shimashita. This enables fluid cornering. "It's so smooth that I feel like a better driver, but the car is actually supporting my actions behind the scenes," Kubokawa says with a smile.
"e-4ORCE's characteristic is that it doesn't over-assert its support but acts as a backstage supporter, allowing for enjoyable driving," Shimashita replies.
The benefits of this technology aren't limited to sunny winding roads. "You can truly feel the advantages of e-4ORCE on slippery surfaces like rain or snow, where driving conditions are poor. Electric motors respond quickly and control with precision in milliseconds. Therefore, even if the weather changes suddenly, the driver can remain calm and drive as intended. This leads to a sense of security."
Shimashita's words may capture the essence of the X-TRAIL's appeal.
For Kubokawa, skiing and snowboarding are still ongoing hobbies. "With the X-TRAIL, I can confidently drive to the mountains even on snowy roads." The X-TRAIL, once seen in ski resort parking lots, continues to evolve as a reliable companion.
At Shimashita's suggestion, "Shall we try the e-Pedal Step?" Kubokawa presses the e-Pedal button. He is impressed by the ease of driving with e-Pedal Step, which allows acceleration and deceleration using only the accelerator pedal. "Even on winding roads like the Turnpike, I barely touched the brakes. It's very relaxing because I don't have to switch pedals often. The sophisticated control ensures that all movements connect seamlessly without abrupt changes in G-force, front or rear. The comfort for passengers in the front and rear seats is due to the precise vehicle control by e-4ORCE."
Practicality That Brings Richness
At Daikanyama, a viewpoint on the Turnpike, the two take a short break. After enjoying the magnificent view of Sagami Bay to the east and Mt. Fuji to the northwest, Kubokawa says, as if remembering something.
"In my line of work, I often bring home interior items I find while traveling, so I'm also concerned about luggage capacity."
Saying this, Kubokawa opens the X-TRAIL's tailgate. The X-TRAIL is equipped with a hands-free back door that opens with a wave of your foot, so there's no trouble even when your hands are full of luggage. Furthermore, the vast 575-liter space can accommodate up to four 9.5-inch golf bags. It also has an AC power outlet, allowing you to use electrical appliances outdoors.
*Capacity for 2-row seat models, with second seat in standard position. Includes luggage under-space. Luggage room capacity up to the waistline (VDA method).
*Depending on the shape and size of the golf bag, it may not fit.
"I think I could transport small pieces of furniture. It would be helpful if I found a unique chair or a piece of pottery I liked."
Shimashita nods in agreement. "I enjoy cycling in nature, but I don't go often. However, just knowing that I can load my bike into the car and go for a ride whenever I feel like it enriches my life."
Seamless Daily Life Achieved Through Toughness and Sophistication
On the way back, reflecting on the day's experience, the two discuss the X-TRAIL's appeal.
"While retaining the X-TRAIL's characteristic toughness, its design is so refined that it's an SUV you can drive to a luxury hotel wearing a jacket," says Shimashita. SUVs used to have a strong image of being exclusively for leisure, but the X-TRAIL blurs that boundary by combining toughness and sophistication.
"You can use it casually every day, and then clean it up to take it to formal occasions when needed. The ability to switch between these uses is its charm," says Kubokawa. This flexibility, he believes, is what makes the X-TRAIL a compelling choice.
"The sense of security that you can go anywhere, regardless of weather or location, is also appealing," Kubokawa continues. It would be a reliable companion on the road to his second home in Karuizawa, especially on snowy or bad weather days.
Toughness and sophistication. Powerful driving and refined comfort. By achieving a high level of balance between these seemingly contradictory elements, the X-TRAIL can handle everything from daily urban life to weekend adventures. This is a value realized through the fusion of its history as a genuine SUV and the refined quality polished through its minor change. What the two experienced over a full day was the profound depth of the X-TRAIL.
Nissan X-TRAIL G e-4ORCE
Length x Width x Height | 4,690 x 1,840 x 1,720mm
Wheelbase | 2,705mm
Drivetrain | 4WD
Curb Weight | 1,880kg
Seating Capacity | 5 people
Body Color | Cardinal Red
Interior Color | Brown
Optional Features |
Roof rails + Panoramic glass roof (with electric tilt & slide, electric folding sunshade)
Adaptive LED headlight system (with auto-leveling)
BOSE Premium Sound System (9 speakers)
Nappa leather (anti-bacterial)
235/55R19 101V tires & 19-inch aluminum wheels,
Clear View Package (Rear LED fog lamp (driver's side))
Front Suspension | MacPherson strut
Rear Suspension | Multi-link
Engine | 1,497cc Inline 3-cylinder DOHC Turbo
Max. Output | 106kW (144PS) / 4400-5000rpm
Max. Torque | 250N・m (25.5kgf・m) / 2400-4000rpm
Motor (Front) | BM46 Synchronous AC motor
Max. Output | 150kW (204PS) / 4501-7422rpm
Max. Torque | 330N・m (33.7kgf・m) / 0-3505rpm
Drive Battery | Lithium-ion battery
Motor (Rear) | MM48 Synchronous AC motor
Max. Output | 100kW (136PS) / 4897-9504rpm
Max. Torque | 195N・m (19.9kgf・m) / 0-4897rpm
Drive Battery | Lithium-ion battery
Brakes (Front/Rear) | Disc type
Tires (Front/Rear) | 235/55R19 101V
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | 4,946,700 yen (incl. tax)
Yasuhisa Shimashita
Born in 1972. As an internationally-oriented motor journalist, he conducts over a dozen overseas assignments annually, test-driving nearly 200 vehicles a year. In addition to contributing to a wide range of media, including magazines and websites, he hosts the YouTube channel "RIDE NOW." He is a juror for the 2025-2026 Car of the Year Japan and has authored books such as "Mistakes in Car Selection" (Sousha) and "How Will Japan Compete in the Future of Cars?" (Seikaisha).
Katsuya Kubokawa
Interior Stylist & Prop Stylist. Possesses deep knowledge of a wide range of products, including cars, home appliances, and stationery. Became independent in 2002 and works as an interior and prop stylist, handling props and styling for photography backgrounds for TV program interior segments and magazine interior pages. He also handles window displays, model rooms for condominiums, and event decorations.
Contact Information
Nissan Customer Service Center
Tel. 0120-315-232 (9:00-17:00, excluding Dec 31 - Jan 2)