A Stylish SUV in the Snow – The X-TRAIL Hybrid

We had the opportunity to drive Nissan vehicles on snow in Kirigamine, Nagano Prefecture, in January 2016. As a manufacturer with a full lineup, Nissan offers a rich selection of four-wheel-drive models, from compact cars to SUVs. Furthermore, they provided an opportunity to experience that even two-wheel-drive vehicles can perform admirably.

The original plan was to drive on the frozen Lake Megami, but due to a mild winter, the ice was not thick enough. The course was changed to a general packed-snow road, including mountain passes leading to a nearby ski resort. The first model tested was the 'X-TRAIL HYBRID 20X'.

The X-TRAIL Hybrid, released in May 2015, has a body measuring 4,640mm in length and 1,715mm in height. It is a derivative of the X-TRAIL SUV, equipped with a hybrid system that combines a 2-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor. Nissan's system is a '1-motor, 2-clutch' setup. When running solely on electric power, the engine and drivetrain are disengaged by a clutch, which helps improve fuel efficiency.

NISSAN X-TRAIL HYBRID 20X

The 4WD system is named 'All Mode 4x4-i,' allowing the driver to select from three modes: 'Auto mode,' which automatically varies torque distribution from 100% front to a 50:50 front-rear split; 'Lock mode,' which fixes the distribution at 50:50; and '2WD mode,' for low-load conditions such as highway driving.

We drove the X-TRAIL Hybrid 20X (¥3,011,040) on mountain roads from the vicinity of Lake Megami to Kirigamine, where the ski resort is located. In summer, this scenic road offers views of grasslands below and the Yatsugatake mountain range beyond. In winter, it is a vast expanse of white, with only the changing colors of the sky and clouds providing variation. Four-wheel drive technology is designed for those who must drive with confidence even in such conditions.

The impression of the X-TRAIL Hybrid is one of exceptional reassurance. The driver is not burdened by any complex operations. Awareness is only needed for the steering wheel, accelerator, and brake pedals. This is crucial on winter roads, where there are many factors to be mindful of, such as changes in road surface and snowfall.

The X-TRAIL Hybrid is equipped with technologies that optimize cornering and ride comfort by integrating electronic controls with the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) and brakes. Perhaps thanks to this system, vehicle attitude control was reliably achieved during the snowy drive.

As a result of the alliance between Nissan and Renault, the X-TRAIL is commonly seen in France. It looks particularly stylish in Paris. This impression remains unchanged even in the snowy mountains. It is a cool SUV, both in form and function.

On the snow, in addition to the X-TRAIL Hybrid, we even had the chance to drive the GT-R.

Surprisingly Capable on Snow – The GT-R

At Nissan's snow driving event, the most surprising element was the presence of the Nissan GT-R.

The GT-R, priced over 10 million yen, is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing a maximum output of 404kW (550ps) and a maximum torque of 632Nm. Is it a sports car or a super sedan? Its standard drivetrain is rear-wheel drive, but torque is distributed to the front wheels if the rear wheels slip, making it essentially a sports 4WD.

The model was the 'Premium Edition' (¥10,587,240), featuring luxurious equipment. The seat upholstery is a combination of genuine leather and suede. LED headlights and a BOSE sound system with 11 speakers are standard.

With a length of 4,670mm, a width of 1,895mm, and a height of 1,370mm, its wide and low body is imposing and attractive. For snowy conditions, it was equipped with special Dunlop studless run-flat tires. With a 20% aspect ratio, it looks as if only a thin layer of rubber wraps around the wheel rim.

NISSAN FAIRLADY Z Version ST

NISSAN SKYLINE 200GT-t typeP

On snowy roads, however, I was surprised by how well it drove, exceeding expectations. The tire grip was excellent. The fact that the steering wheel clearly communicated the road conditions was also reassuring. While the deep spoilers prevent it from going into very deep snow, it can navigate snowy roads with ease.

Also driven were the 'Fairlady Z Version ST,' 'Skyline 200GT-t typeP,' and 'March NISMO S.' These are all two-wheel-drive. Additionally, there was the 'Juke NISMO RS,' which is four-wheel-drive. All vehicles were fitted with studless tires.

NISSAN MARCH NISMO S

NISSAN JUKE NISMO RS

As expected, the powerful two-wheel-drive Fairlady Z and Skyline required a bit of tension during driving, necessitating careful steering and acceleration/deceleration. Nevertheless, they performed surprisingly well. The four-wheel-drive Juke offered a very natural driving experience, which was truly impressive.

Before driving the GT-R, a test driver from Nissan warned, 'Even if it feels like you can drive normally, please do not push it.' What is most essential on snowy roads? Perhaps it is the option of self-control.