Nissan X-Trail

• The engine is a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol, producing 181hp of power and 244 Nm of torque. Expect real-world fuel consumption around 15.4 to 16.1 km/litre, depending on driving conditions and which trim you select.

• The CVT Xtronic transmission is truly smooth; you won’t feel much of jerky downshifts or confusion about what gear you are in. The transmission manages the power delivery intelligently, keeping engine revolutions in the sweet spot for efficiency.

• Ground clearance is 212 millimetres, and wheelbase is 2,705 mm, quite suitable for the size of the SUV. This also means greater legroom, cargo space and comfort for seven passengers.

• You get five drive modes including Auto, Eco, Sport, Snow and off-Road to deal with a variety of terrains with ease across KSA.

• The AWD system is one big highlight, which comes with intelligent torque distribution and an Electronic 4x4 lock that engages when the system detects slip.

Minor limitations to consider 

• This isn't a performance machine; rather, acceleration is measured, not aggressive.

• Ground clearance at 212 mm is adequate for rough surfaces but not high enough for serious off-roading.

• The CVT, while smooth, does not have the mechanical feel of a traditional automatic. Some drivers find this disconcerting until they get used to it.

•  On well-maintained highways, the suspension feels composed and controlled. Small bumps disappear. The ride quality is perfectly good, not just adequate.

• Steering is responsive but not aggressive. At highway speeds, the X-Trail feels planted. Through the corners, body roll is visible. But keep in mind that this is an SUV, not a sports car.

• Visibility from the high driving position is fine; you won’t complain. An optional 360-degree camera system and rear cross-traffic alert eliminate blind spots and make parking easier.

• The ProPILOT assistance, when specified, is a big help. It maintains your lane position, reads upcoming bends and adjusts speed appropriately. It's not autonomous driving, but it's thoughtful assistance that reduces driver fatigue on long drives.

• Road and wind noise at highway speeds is present but not excessive. Off-Road mode actually works. The suspension doesn't suddenly transform into a rock-crawler, but it adjusts. Sand mode reduces tyre slip on loose surfaces.

• The X-Trail handles gravel and rough surfaces more confidently than you'd expect from a family vehicle. Although it does not have serious off-roading capability, it is capable of all-terrain driving.

• The one limitation is that body control, while composed, isn't as precise as premium competitors. Push hard and you notice the mass, which is actually expected.

• The twin 12.3-inch displays are clearly the attraction of the cockpit, with much of the space occupied by the dash on upper trims. One is the instrument cluster, the other is the infotainment system. The system includes Google Maps navigation on higher variants. Real-time traffic information actually works. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard, both are wireless on most trims.

• Seating is the real fun with the EZ Flex system in the second and third rows provides real flexibility. The seats fold flat, slide, and recline. You can configure the cargo area in multiple ways depending on your needs. Five people plus luggage, and seven people with minimal luggage are good to go. The flexibility actually works practically.

• The driver's seat features power adjustment on higher trims with memory function. The front passenger seat also adjusts electrically. Rear seats on the SL trim include heating and ventilation. The leather is not real, but quilted, and you feel greatly comfortable.

• The Hide-N-Divide cargo system is a practical feature that helps you adjust dividers. You can configure the boot in six different ways. Wireless smartphone charging with cup holders, door pockets, and glovebox takes care of cabin storage.

• Bose audio system with ten speakers on higher trims provides you with excellent music and entertainment quality.

• Climate control is dual-zone automatic with rear vents, which is useful for Saudi heat. The driver and front passenger can set different temperatures, and rear passengers get great cooling too. The system responds quickly to temperature changes.

• Some owners, especially those who are not very familiar with tech, may find this a little complex. And needs some learning at least at the beginning.

• Features like brake assist, vehicle stability control, traction control, hill-start assist, and limited-slip differential are all offered as standard. These are not luxury features but essential safety basics that prevent accidents.

• Higher trims get a forward collision warning that detects stopped vehicles ahead. Intelligent Forward Emergency Braking applies brakes automatically if you don't react. Blind Spot Warning alerts you to vehicles you can't see. Rear Cross Traffic Alert warns when reversing. Lane Departure Warning and Intelligent Lane Departure Prevention both work effectively.

• The ProPILOT system on upper trims reads road markings and uses freeway mapping to anticipate curves and exits. The system adjusts speed for upcoming turns and genuinely reduces highway driving fatigue.

• The rearview camera and optional 360-degree view system eliminate reversing confusion completely. Parking sensors front and rear add confidence in tight spaces.

• The X-Trail hasn't been independently crash tested yet for this new generation by Euro NCAP, but Nissan's safety engineering is proven across its global range.