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| Home » Nissan X-Trail News » Nissan X-Trail 2.2 dCi Columbia | ||
02/17/2007
Unfortunately, I test drove the 4x4 a few weeks back when we had brilliant sunshine and perfect driving conditions - despite being in the midst of winter. Global warming sucks! Yet come rain or shine, the multi award-winning X-Trail is a formidable vehicle. Since its debut in October 2001, this SUV has been one of the fastest selling 4x4s on the market. I test drove the 2.2 dCi Columbia which was produced in association with the American company of the same name who are specialists in rugged high-tech sports wear. Rugged may be too strong a word to describe the appearance of the X-Trail. Boxy seems more appropriate in my view. I have to say I preferred the powerful and intimidating look of the Mitsubishi Warrior - one of its main rivals - to the X-Trail which is far less imposing or striking in comparison. Yet inside the airy and well-lit cabin is where the Nissan matches anything on the road. Quality features that all come as standard include an advanced DVD satellite navigation system and first class music and air con systems. Buy the dCi model and you also receive a bonus 'Family Pack'. Look behind Mum and Dad's centre console and you will find a toy box with a scroll-top lid and a 12V socket for games power. The rear centre armrest can also be transformed into a useful fold-out table. There are even extra roof mounted rear reading lights and headrests with 'ears' for extra head support when it's time to turn the lights out on long journeys. Of course the X-Trail, like most 4x4s, is likely to spend a lot more time on the road than off. Therefore, at its heart lies some of the most sophisticated four-wheel drive technology on the market. The 'ALL MODE' 4x4 driving system provides car-like handling and, being electronically controlled, it is faster reacting than many other automatic four-wheel drive systems. The 2.2-litre 136bhp diesel engine also provides plenty of power yet has a combined cycle fuel consumption of just 37.2mpg - offering great green credentials. Overall, I liked this 4x4 a lot, particularly the very reasonable £21,395 price-tag. FAST FACTS Nissan X-Trail 2.2 dCi Columbia Price : £21,395 Mechanical : 136bhp, 2,184cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving all four wheels via 6spd manual gearbox Max speed : 112mph 0-62mph : 11.5 secs Combined mpg : 37.2 Insurance group : 10 CO2 emissions : 203g/km BiK rating : 30% Warranty : 3yrs/ 60,000 miles, 3yrs paint, 12yrs anti-rust ic Liverpool |
