The Nissan X-Trail was originally launched in 2001 and swiftly garnered a reputation as a reliable, affordable, family friendly all-rounder.

Wisely, the manufacturers haven’t messed with this too much, and indeed externally the new model looks little different to its predecessor. Underneath though, Mk II features a brand new chassis and, in the diesel version, a new engine to replace the occasionally problematic Renault-supplied lump in Mk I. With the diesel variant expected to account for up to 90 per cent of sales, this looks a good move.

Nissan is also hoping the fleet market will take a hefty chunk of sales, with rural police forces and countryside management organisations the most likely candidates here, though it seems likely that most of its buyers will test
its mettle on the school run more than the dirt run, especially since the decidedly glitzy appearance doesn’t encourage those with no immediate need to do so to run it through the mud.

On the road, the 2.0dCi Aventura we tested was a surprisingly punchy drive – its 173PS giving it a kick start you might not expect from such a big vehicle, while the ride is comfortable, the cabin generally well thought out, and driving position and visibility good, as you’d expect in such a beast. Helpfully, the version we tested came with a reversing camera built into the on-board GPS too, so the traditional black spot of the 4x4 sector – it’s rear, isn’t an issue. A particular bonus considering how many of these are likely to spend much of their time reversing outside primary schools.

Off road, meanwhile, it’s a versatile performer too. The All Mode 4x4 system integrates the traction control, ABS anti-lock brakes, hill descent control (automatic braking if the car starts running away downhill) and hill start assist (to prevent roll-back) as well as the stability control through a variety of sensors detecting steering angle and front, side and rear G-force.

Though by no means an aficionado of the 4x4 circuit, Fleet Times found that the vehicle more than held its own on the Shropshire course where we tested it.

All in all, then, the X-Trail performs as a good all-rounder both on and off road, while its emission figures and mpg returns are surprisingly healthy for a vehicle of its class, particularly in the diesel versions.

For the real off road market, the traditional Land Rover hegemony will always be a tough one to crack, but this stands a better chance than many of its competitors. For the casual, or indeed fleet, buyer meanwhile, the £2,000 price difference between the entry level X-trail and its Freelander equivalent could prove a crucial factor in the Nissan’s favour.

Verdict
A Big, bold beast at an affordable price that’ll perform equally well in town or country.