When Nissan pulled off the covers for the all-new 2021 Nissan Rogue in June 2020, we were amazed at the bold design the Japanese brand is going for its popular SUV. Outside of North America (NA) though, this SUV goes by a name more familiar to Malaysians, the Nissan X-Trail.
However, since then there has been very little news on the arrival of the next-gen X-Trail outside of the States until now. Based on these images found in Chinese publications, it appears that China could be one of the first markets to introduce X-Trail name on this SUV.
Looking at the photos, the design of the Chinese-spec X-Trail is not that different from the Rogue. The bold front design with its two-tier headlight design and angular V-Motion front grille is retained here.
The same goes for the rear design with the X-Trail script written across the tailgate handle. Though the rear does look similar to the outgoing X-Trail, it's a completely new look. Going from soft to bold is quite a statement for the all-new X-Trail.
But there are also some extra badges on the tailgate. One is a Chinese script that reads Dongfeng Nissan, representing the partnership between the Chinese and Japanese carmaker in the Middle Kingdom.
Anyway, there are more badges on the tailgate. One reads 4x4-i, which means that there is a 4WD variant but it’s the other badge that raised some curiosity among Chinese car fans.
From what we gathered, the Chinese-spec X-Trail could be powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder engine that produces 204 PS and 300 Nm. This engine is expected to be mated to a CVT gearbox.
Rogue powerplant shown
This is different from what is offered in the NA-spec Rogue which is powered by a 2.5-litre direct-injection four-cylinder petrol engine that does 183 PS and 245 Nm.
It remains to see which engine will be offered for the Malaysian market but we’ll have to wait a little longer for its local debut. Probably in 2022.
The all-new X-Trail will be launched in China on 19-April at the 2021 Shanghai Auto Show.
Traded advertising for a career that fits his passion for cars. Enjoys spotting cars during his free time and has a soft spot for Japanese Kei cars but drives a thirsty manual sedan.
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