When it was first launched 25 years ago, the X-TRAIL introduced a brand-new category of motoring and set the benchmark for all that followed, says Nissan.
The name says it all, fusing the concept of extreme sports and the outdoors, and the first generation (T30: 2000 – 2007) deliberately set out to prove that a 4WD vehicle could be comfortable and fun, sporty and practical while shattering the stigma of 4WD vehicles being heavy on fuel.
The T30 X-TRAIL featured a spacious interior suitable for outdoor and sports use, a class-leading cargo area, washable luggage boards and water-repellent seats for easy cleaning. Two years later, a 2003 minor update significantly improved driver comfort with the introduction of a pop-up steering wheel featuring a maximum tilt angle of 45 degrees.
The T30 X-TRAIL debuted Nissan's innovative ALL MODE 4x4 system, intelligently detecting driving and road conditions to distribute optimal torque to the rear wheels for enhanced performance, and it achieved optimal fuel efficiency under normal driving conditions by utilising front-wheel drive and ensured stable performance on slippery roads through electronic control. Drivers could switch seamlessly between AUTO Mode, 2WD and LOCK mode (which provided a fixed torque distribution of 57:43).
The next generation’s, (T31: 2007 – 2013), standout feature was its electronic 4WD system ALL MODE 4x4-i with Yaw Movement Control, which ensured excellent all-weather performance. The system analysed data from steering angle sensors, yaw-rate sensors and G sensors to predict the driver's intended cornering line and automatically adjusted torque distribution to provide smooth cornering even on slippery roads. There were also additional features like Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist.
The third generation X-TRAIL (T32 2013- 2020) introduced Active Ride Control, Active Engine Brake and Cornering Stability Assist and it also adopted the Intelligent Around View Monitor for parking assistance.
T33, the current fourth generation X-TRAIL, brought further enhancements such as the 7-seat option, Head-up Display, and ProPILOT feature, which significantly reduces driver stress when driving on highways in several kinds of traffic conditions. The T33 cemented itself as an adventure vehicle that began with the original T30 and was further burnished last year when it was deployed as the support vehicle for Daring Africa, an 8 000km odyssey from Pretoria in South Africa to Cairo, covering every kilometre as the Nissan NAVARA pick-ups, which were the designated stars of the show.
In 2025, the X-TRAIL underwent a model year change, adding a walk-away lock and approach unlocking functionality and a wireless charger in all grades.
The South African automotive industry has gained some breathing space following the latest move by the United States Senate to extend the African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, to the end of 2028.
Mazda Southern Africa has announced the arrival of all‑new Mazda CX‑5, available for pre‑order during July and August, with first deliveries expected from September. The latest generation introduces updated design, technology, safety and performance, while continuing the CX‑5’s role as one of Mazda’s most important global SUVs.
General Motors (GM) has renewed its joint venture with China's SAIC Motor Corp for another 20 years, enabling the United States (US) automaker to use China as an export hub amid rising competition from Chinese brands in and outside their home market.
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You can't buy happiness but you can buy cars and that's kind of the same thing.
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Mazda Southern Africa has announced the arrival of all‑new Mazda CX‑5, available for pre‑order during July and August, with first deliveries expected from September. The latest generation introduces updated design, technology, safety and performance, while continuing the CX‑5’s role as one of Mazda’s most important global SUVs.
Audi South Africa has expanded its compact SUV line-up with the introduction of the new Q2 S line derivative.
LDV South Africa has added a new entry model to its line‑up with the launch of the T60 Utility Single Cab. Priced from R299 900, it is positioned as one of the most affordable single‑cab bakkies in the country, aimed at businesses and fleet operators who require a dependable workhorse with modern equipment.
