Author: Chathura Chanuka

“Nissan EXTRAIL: The Latest Nissan Connect and the First Nissan Passenger Car to be Equipped with a 100 VAC/1500 Watt Power Supply!

The all-new Nissan EXTRAIL in “”Cardinal Red,”” the first body color to be adopted in Japan
The interior of the all-new Extrail is decorated in “”Cardinal Red,”” a body color adopted for the first time in Japan. The electronic mirror is the core of the telematics system and provides rearward visibility that is unaffected by the conditions inside the vehicle.
The Nissan Extrail, now in its fourth generation, has undergone a full model change. It has been reborn as an SUV that combines the tough gear feel that has made it so popular in the past with high-grade quality. The telematics and other features of the new Extrail have also evolved significantly.

◆OTA updates of map data and SOS call are available
The first thing that jumps out at you when you get into the new Extrail is the 12.3-inch horizontal display located in the center of the console. It is multimedia-compatible, and when the home button is pressed, the status of connected devices and the in-car navigation system can be displayed at the same time. This is the core of the “”Nissan Connect”” system.

Nissan Connect is an optional service available for the new Xtrai for an annual fee of 7,920 yen (tax included). This is basically the same as the plan available for the Note and other models, including the content provided.

The first thing that this subscription enables is “”SOS Call””. This is a function that allows the user to contact an operator in the event of an emergency, and the service can also be used to call the police or fire department. In the event of an airbag activation, the system automatically connects the driver to an operator, and if the driver does not respond, the system arranges for assistance based on the location information reported.

The most typical available content includes “”Door to Door,”” which allows route guidance to be transferred between the smartphone and the in-vehicle navigation system, “”Voice Assistant,”” which allows destination setting and music playback to be controlled by voice, and “”Automatic OTA Map Update,”” which automatically updates the map data of the in-vehicle navigation system via communication. The Voice Assistant is a feature that allows the driver to wake up the car and start driving. The voice assistant can be used to wake the driver up by saying “”Hallo (or Ok) Nissan,”” and then the driver can enter commands in a free conversational style based on natural language understanding.

◆In addition to the voice assistant, Amazon Alexa is also supported.
Following the Aria, the new Extrale is also compatible with Amazon Alexa. It enables news, weather forecasts, and online shopping through voice operation, as well as subscribe music playback through Amazon music. However, the communication for using this service is separate from Nissan Connect, and its use requires either a subscription to “”docomo in car connect”” (paid option), which enables in-car Wi-Fi, or a tethered connection with a smartphone.

Pro Pilot, which assists with accelerating, braking, and steering on highways, is linked to the onboard navigation system and uses map information to identify curves and junctions in advance to control vehicle speed. The system also assists the driver in maintaining a safe distance between vehicles and keeping the vehicle in the center of the lane, and is compatible with Pro Pilot parking, which requires only three steps to complete parking.

Other grade-specific features include an “”intelligent room mirror”” that can be switched to an electronic mirror and an “”intelligent around-view monitor”” that displays the surroundings as if the driver is looking down from the sky when parking.

◆Built-in large-capacity 1500W power supply for outdoor use and emergencies
The Extrail, which is designed for outdoor use, is the first model to be equipped with this exciting feature. This is the first 100V AC power outlet (1500W) installed in a Nissan passenger car, and it can be installed built-in in the cargo compartment (standard on the G grade, optional on other grades).

In fact, Mitsubishi Motors, a group company, has already installed this feature in its PHEVs, and Toyota has also made it available as an optional feature in all of its hybrid vehicles (it is standard equipment in the Aqua). Toyota has also installed this feature as an option in all of its hybrid vehicles (Aqua is a standard feature). Although Nissan claims to offer “”Vehicle to Home (V2H),”” it was necessary to purchase an inverter kit costing around 170,000 yen to make this a reality.

With the new EXTRAIL, this has finally been realized: a USB power socket (Type-C) + 100VAC power supply (1500W) combination can be installed for 52,800 yen. Furthermore, unlike the inverter kit, it is equipped as a power outlet in the luggage compartment, making it extremely easy to use. Finally, the day has come when this functionality can be realized in Nissan vehicles.

As to why this power outlet had not been installed until now, the person in charge of development said, “”There had been opinions within the company for some time that it should be equipped. However, other models were not ready in time, so we decided to install it at this time when the new EXTRAIL was introduced. I believe that adoption will be expanded in the future. Although it is still too early to say for sure, the current e-POWER models and EVs may also be equipped with the system after minor changes.

“

“Nissan xtrail: “”The same concept can’t be applied to the next hit model.
The concept of the new Nissan X-TRAIL is “”a tough SUV wearing high quality.

A design that “”unconsciously gives you a sense of goodness

Aiming for a display like a familiar smartphone

The next idea is already in the works.

Thursday, July 21, 2022 08:00 AM

The new Nissan XTRAIL finally made its Japan debut on July 20, 2022. The new XTRAIL is a return to the “”tough gear”” of the first generation, with a high quality exterior design, advanced interior, and a powertrain that incorporates all of Nissan’s technologies.

Among the many attractions of the new Extrail, we will focus on its design. We will discuss the appeal of the new Extrail’s design based on interviews with Nissan designers who were involved in the development of the new Extrail.

The concept of the new XTRAIL is “”a tough SUV wearing high quality

We interviewed Mr. Shinichiro Irie, Program Design Director, 2nd Product Design Department, Global Design Division, who is in charge of the design of recent Nissan vehicles in general, including the new Extrail, and Mr. Masahiko Kato, who was in charge of the interior of the new Extrail, Note, and Note Aura, as well as the interior. Yohei Noshiro, Design Manager of the 2nd Product Design Department, Global Design Division.

Nissan’s EXTRAIL was based on the keyword “”Tough Gear”” when the first-generation EXTRAIL debuted, a concept that was carried over to the second-generation model. The previous generation, the third generation, was steered towards an urban crossover SUV that added advanced technology to the tough gear, and although it was initially derided by fans of the first and second generations as being too classy, the third generation ended up being a great success, winning the number one registered vehicle sales in the 4WD SUV category in 2018 The third-generation model, however, was a resounding success, becoming the number one selling 4WD SUV in 2018.

The previous generation Extrail was a hit, but the concept for the new model has undergone a major change.
Today, there are a wide variety of SUVs in every segment. Irie said that in order for the EXTRAIL to make its presence felt, he thought it was important to carry on the iconic “”Tough Gear”” of the first generation, and while carrying on the “”advanced”” and “”high quality”” feel of the third generation, he wanted to go back to the roots of “”Tough Gear”” and create an easy-to-understand SUV-like shape once again. The same concept should not be used for the next hit product,”” said Mr. Irie. Just as in the case of movies, it is particularly difficult to create the next model after a successful one, and the development of the new Extrail was extremely difficult.

A design that “”gives an unconscious sense of goodness

The preliminary design study for the new Extrail began around 2018. In the era of electrification of powertrains, they felt that a major shift was needed in design. To address this, Mr. Irie and the rest of the Nissan Design Department launched “”Timeless Japanese Futurism,”” a common language of design for all Nissan vehicles.

Timeless Japanese Futurism”” is a design concept that is semi-permanent, never boring, and has a Japanese sense of beauty, while at the same time being progressive. The “”A to Z”” model lineup of 15 new models announced in the May 2020 financial results announcement is the “”Timeless Japanese Futurism”” concept, which is a combination of a semi-permanent Japanese sense of beauty with a touch of innovation. The “”A to Z”” design concept of 15 new models announced in the May 2020 financial results announcement was part of a move to align all design directions at once in line with the “”Timeless Japanese Futurism”” concept.

As mentioned above, the overall silhouette of the new Nissan Extrail is said to have been expressed to give it a sturdy and tough appearance. Specifically, they wanted to minimize character lines on the sides of the body and eliminate any unnecessary elements, so that only the last remaining elements would be appealing. The front area was designed with the angular lines of the first and second generation cars, but instead of using chrome to express a sense of quality, the designers chose to express it through the quality of the workmanship. He says, “”We tried to create an unconscious feeling of ‘completed quality,’ as if the car somehow looked luxurious.””

According to Mr. Irie, the best way to express the brand on the body side is in the C-pillar design. The new Extrail has a shape that captures the characteristics of previous generations, so much so that “”even without the badge, you can tell the model of the car,”” he said. Indeed, the rear end of the rear quarter glass, which is designed in the shape of a “”K””, looks the same as on previous Extrail models.

Aiming for a familiar smartphone-like display

The interior is another of the new Extrail’s selling points. The interior concept is “”Premium Comfort,”” featuring 12.3-inch LCD meters, a 12.3-inch navigation monitor, a bridge console also used in the Note/Note Aura and KIX, an electric shifter and its lower storage, and a butterfly center console that can be easily accessed from the rear seats. The butterfly center console, which can be easily accessed from the rear seats, as well as the ambient lights and wood-grain paneling, give the impression of two new generations compared to the previous generation.　

The concept of “”premium comfort”” is a “”common”” concept that could be applied by any manufacturer, but the new Extrale gives the impression of having been carefully crafted down to the smallest detail, giving it a “”genuine premium comfort”” finish. The design of the display is a particular focus.

According to Mr. Noshiro, in charge of interior design, the 12.3-inch LCD meter and navigation monitor of the new EXTRAIL were made to look digital and easy to use, so they wanted to increase their size anyway. The image, he says, is of a familiar digital device, like a smartphone or tablet.

The new Extrail does not use the display that connects two LCD monitors (Nissan calls it a monolith), which is used in the latest generation of vehicles such as the Aria, Note/Note Aura, and Sakura. The new T33 model will eventually be integrated into the monolithic display. We hope that the monolith will eventually be integrated into the new model.

We already have an idea for the next one.

The new Nissan Extrail has finally gone on sale, but the next idea is already in his mind. Mr. Irie often looks at the modern architecture of architect Kengo Kuma, from which he sometimes thinks about the structure of the interior. In particular, he is looking at the details of the construction, such as the structure without using nails and the processing to eliminate the boundary between parts so that the joints are not visible, while thinking about what he can incorporate into the car. He believes that the “”high quality”” of the new EXTRAIL is also the result of his attention to detail, which is not noticeable at a glance.

Understanding the spirit of the designers will change the way you look at new models. We will continue to pay attention to the design of Nissan vehicles.”

“NISSAN XTRAIL New Model] The “”Tough”” XTRAIL Returns in Higher Quality [Detailed Photos] 17:00, July 20, 2022 (Wed)

The Nissan XTRAIL is the first new model in nine years. Equipped with the second-generation “”e-POWER”” and the “”e-4ORCE”” electric four-wheel drive control technology, this mid-size SUV is the crystallization of the electrification technology that “”Nissan of Technology”” is proud of.

Powerful silhouette and enhanced quality

The new Nissan EXTRAIL has a design that mixes the “”tough gear”” elements inherited from the first generation with a sense of quality. The overall body silhouette is generally square and powerful. With the renewed platform, the overall length of the car is 4660 mm, 30 mm more compact than the previous generation. The wheelbase is 2705 mm, unchanged from the previous generation, and the spacious interior remains unchanged. Another highlight of the new model is the availability of a three-row seating configuration.

The distinctive double-decker headlights on the front mask have the position lamps on the upper section and the main lamps on the lower section. The grille inherits the “”V-motion grille”” characteristic of recent Nissan models such as the “”Kicks””. The rear view, on the other hand, incorporates the design of the first generation on the C-pillar and the rear combination lamps, which retain the look of the previous generation, but have a more refined appearance with precision machining inspired by the traditional Japanese faceted structure.

A total of 12 body colors are available, including five two-tone and seven monotone body colors. The model in the image is 2-tone Shell Blonde/Super Black. Based on the elegant blonde color, the key points are tightened with black.

Interior design that foreshadows multiple activities
The interior design also aims to combine toughness and quality. The seats are available in four different materials. There are black fabric, tan Nappa leather, waterproof seats ideal for outdoor activities, and Nissan’s proprietary “”TailorFit”” next-generation seat material.

The center display is a 12.3-inch NissanConnect navigation system. This is powered by Amazon Alexa, allowing comfortable voice control. In addition, the “”ProPilot”” driver assistance technology has an additional “”NaviLink function”” that works with this navigation system to provide further driving assistance based on map data.

The luggage space is top class in terms of space thanks to the increased cargo length; it is large enough to accommodate four 9.5-inch size golf bags to meet a variety of needs. It is also equipped with a 100VAC power supply (1500W), which can be used for multiple purposes, including outdoor activities and emergency power supply.

Second-generation “”e-POWER”” + World’s first mass-produced engine combination
The biggest topic is the powertrain that the Extrail will be equipped with. The second-generation “”e-POWER,”” which has evolved in terms of power and other features thanks to a new motor and inverter, is combined with Nissan’s “”VC Turbo Engine,”” which is the world’s first engine to be successfully mass-produced by Nissan. This engine is capable of changing compression ratios at will, depending on the situation. The engine delivers high output, quietness, low fuel consumption, and improved performance in all aspects.

Another highlight is the “”e-4ORCE”” electric drive four-wheel control technology. By controlling the two front and rear motors and the left and right brakes, the driving force of all four wheels is optimized. This contributes not only to improved drivability over rough roads, but also to improved ride comfort during acceleration, deceleration, and cornering.

The new XTRAIL is available in three basic grades: the entry-level S, the image-oriented X, and the high-end G. 2WD and 4WD are selectable, and the e-4ORCE is available on the 4WD model. Prices start at 3,198,800 yen for the “”S, 2WD”” model.”

“Nissan XTRAIL New Model: “”AUTECH”” with Enhanced Luxury and Tougher “”EXTREME X”” Also Available20 July 20, 2010, 15:30 JST

EXTRAIL AUTECH EXTREME X 20-inch alloy wheels and tires (MICHELIN PRIMACY4) Rear Under ProtectorExclusive design 18-inch aluminum wheels for EXTRAIL EXTREMER XExclusive design 18-inch aluminum wheels for EXTRAIL EXTREMER XRear LED fog lamps
Nissan Motorsports & Customization (NMC) has fully remodeled the EXTRAIL AUTECH and EXTRAIL EXTREMER X, and will begin sales on July 25.

AUTECH inherits the traditional craftsmanship that has been involved in various custom cars, and now offers products that are positioned as a luxury brand of Nissan vehicles. Under the concept of “”Premium Sporty,”” the iconic color is blue, inspired by the “”sea”” and “”sky”” of Chigasaki, Shonan, the birthplace of the brand.

The second-generation EXTRAIL AUTECH will debut based on the new EXTRAIL model, with an enhanced sense of luxury and special features. The exterior features a dot-pattern front grille, a common expression of AUTECH brand vehicles, designed to shine beautifully from any angle, and signature LEDs that shine in blue. The lower part of the vehicle body is equipped with exclusive metal finish parts that give the impression of a low center of gravity and a wide stance, and create a sporty appearance. Exclusively designed 20-inch aluminum wheels, the only Extrail to feature such wheels, emphasize the large diameter of the wheels and are standard equipment on all models, along with Michelin Primacy 4 premium comfort tires.

The interior is made of high quality genuine leather, and the seats are quilted with a three-dimensional feel using many intricate curves, and the blue stitching that symbolizes the AUTECH brand is applied to the steering wheel, door trim, instrument pad, center console box, etc., creating an interior space that pursues the highest quality feel. The entire interior, including the instrument panel, is decorated in black. The entire interior, including the instrument panel, is coordinated in black.

A total of seven body colors are available, including three exclusive AUTECH two-tone body colors. The AUTECH Advanced Package includes the NissanConnect navigation system, head-up display, ProPilot parking, and other advanced safety, convenience, and comfort features.

Prices range from 4,205,300 yen to 5,046,800 yen.

The EXTRAIL EXTREME X is a model that further enhances the base model’s “”tough gear”” image by equipping it with exclusive exterior parts and waterproof seats for users who want to express their more active personalities.

Exterior parts include front and rear under protectors, black door mirrors, outside door handles, and roof rails, as well as exclusively designed aluminum wheels with a combination of machined surfaces and black paint to express strength, enhancing the SUV’s presence and sense of massiveness. The interior is designed for outdoor activities.

The interior features exclusively designed waterproof seats that can be used conveniently in any outdoor environment. In addition, the interior features a full array of convenient and comfortable equipment such as front and rear LED fog lamps, power driver and passenger seats, and a remote-controlled automatic back door.

Prices range from 4,129,400 yen to 4,260,300 yen.”

“NISSAN XTRAIL New Model] First Evolution as a Hybrid SUV in Nine Years, Priced from 3,198,800 yen on July 20, 2022 (Wed.) 13:00

Nissan will fully remodel its mid-size SUV, the XTRAIL, for the first time in nine years and start sales on July 25.

Five grades of 2WD (2-row seat only) and six grades of 4WD (2-row seat) and three grades of 4WD (3-row seat) are available, including the Autec version. Prices range from 3,198,800 yen to 4,499,000 yen.

The new XTRAIL, the fourth generation model, inherits the “”tough gear”” DNA from the first generation model, while adding new “”quality”” and evolved second-generation “”e-POWER”” and “”e-4ORCE”” electric drive four-wheel control technology (4WD models). It has been reborn as a completely new SUV that can be enjoyed in a wide range of situations, from daily life to the outdoor experience of your choice.

Unparalleled driving performance and comfort with e-4ORCE x e-POWER

The new XTRAIL has a completely new platform. The body size is 4660mm (-30mm from the previous generation) x 1840mm (+20mm) x 1720mm (-20mm) and the wheelbase is 2705mm, the same as the previous generation. The overall length has been made more compact and easier to handle, while maintaining the same wide interior length. In addition, the chassis has been made more rigid while reducing weight. The interior space is made quieter by thorough sound insulation of road noise and engine noise. The powertrain combines the second-generation “”e-POWER”” with the “”e-4ORCE”” electric drive four-wheel control technology to achieve unparalleled driving performance and comfort.

The newly developed e-POWER is a combination of two high-output front and rear motors with updated motors and inverters and the VC Turbo engine, which is responsible for power generation. The 1.5-liter VC Turbo engine is Nissan’s first variable compression ratio engine to be successfully mass-produced. Tuned for e-POWER, the engine output has been greatly improved while engine speed has been suppressed. The engine delivers unparalleled quietness and powerful driving performance. The e-POWER engine also delivers excellent environmental performance, achieving fuel economy of 19.7km/liter (WLTC mode) for the 2WD model and 18.4km/liter for the 4WD model.

e-4ORCE is an electrically driven 4-wheel control technology that integrates Nissan’s electrification technology, 4WD control technology, and chassis control technology. It instantly assesses the road surface and vehicle conditions, and by meticulously controlling the two high-output motors (front and rear) and the left and right brakes to maximize the use of tire friction, the vehicle can corner as desired with minimal steering operation. By ensuring optimal traction at all times, even on off-road or snow-covered roads, tires can avoid slipping or getting stuck, resulting in smooth starting and driving. During deceleration in city driving, the amount of regeneration is adjusted by each of the front and rear motors to stabilize the vehicle’s body behavior and reduce the back-and-forth shaking of the occupants’ heads.

In addition to “”Auto”” for balance, “”Sport”” for excellent acceleration performance, and “”Eco”” to support fuel-efficient driving, “”Snow”” and “”Off-Road”” are available for 4WD models. The “”e-Pedal Step”” system allows the driver to control the vehicle speed with the accelerator pedal alone. In addition to repeated acceleration and deceleration in city driving, the hydraulic brake and regenerative brake are optimally controlled, enabling safe driving on slippery snow-covered roads and downhill slopes.

New SUV design with added quality
The new Nissan X-Trail
The new Nissan xtrail
The exterior of the new Nissan XTRAIL combines the tough strength inherited from the first-generation model with the essence of a spacious, high-quality feel, creating a new SUV proportion that harmonizes these two elements. The headlamps feature a two-story structure with the position lamps and turn lamps in the upper section and the main lamps in the lower section, creating a sense of quality. The signature rear combination lamps are highly visible, and the solid inner lenses have a precise, shimmering finish inspired by traditional Japanese faceted patterns to create a sense of quality.

The interior design also aims to combine toughness and high quality comfort. The center console, with a bridge structure that allows the console portion to float in midair, has a large-size cup holder. A tissue box and lap blanket can be stored under the console. The console lid, which also serves as an armrest, opens with a double-sliding mechanism for easy access to stored items. In addition, roll sunshades are installed on the rear doors to block direct sunlight and enhance interior comfort.

A total of 12 body colors, five two-tone and seven monotone, are available. The color lineup includes “”Cardinal Red,”” a first for the Japanese market, which is inspired by deep red roses and has increased vividness and depth; “”Shell Blonde,”” a fine and elegant shade like champagne; and “”Stealth Gray,”” a symbol of toughness and strength.

In addition to black fabric, the interior seat materials include Nissan’s independently developed “”TailorFit,”” a next-generation seat material that provides a moist and comfortable feel against the skin, tan-colored nappa leather, and cellcloth, which is useful for outdoor activities such as skiing and marine sports. Four types of waterproof seats are available: tan nappa leather, waterproof seats made of cellulose, which are useful for outdoor activities such as skiing and marine sports.

Equipped with ProPilot Parking for easy parking
Driving-assist equipment includes the 360° Safety Assist (all-round driving assist system), which ensures safety in all directions. The addition of “”SOS Call”” and the “”Adaptive LED Headlight System,”” which controls the position of high beams according to the presence of oncoming and preceding vehicles, supports safe driving in a variety of situations. In addition, the “”Navi Link function”” has been added to the “”Pro Pilot”” driving assist technology for single-lane expressway driving. Linked to the navigation system, the system reduces the frequency of driver operation by switching the set speed according to the speed limit and assisting deceleration in response to curves, based on map data. In addition, the system is equipped with “”ProPilot Parking,”” which automatically controls the steering wheel, accelerator, brake, gearshift, and parking brake when parking. The system supports parallel and parallel parking and garage parking.

User-friendly and comfortable equipment supports enjoyable outdoor experiences
New Nissan XTRAIL
The new Nissan X-Trail
The meters feature a 12.3-inch advanced drive assist display with two selectable display modes. The 12.3-inch Nissan Connect navigation system used in the center display also features hybrid voice recognition and Amazon Alexa for natural language operation. A wide variety of services make car life more comfortable. In addition, a large 10.8-inch head-up display allows the driver to grasp necessary information without having to shift his/her line of sight while driving, as necessary information is displayed right in front of the driver’s eyes.

The luggage space is the widest in its class, with a wider opening for easy loading and unloading, and increased cargo space length. In addition to two 104-liter suitcases, one 63-liter suitcase and four 9.5-inch golf bags can be accommodated.

In addition, a 9-speaker BOSE premium sound system tuned specifically for the Extrail is installed to provide a realistic sound field. It is also equipped with a 100VAC power supply (1500W) that can be used as an emergency power source for outdoor activities or in times of disaster.”

“Nissan X-TRAIL: The 4th Generation Finally Arrives in Japan! Tough Gear”” Evolution Revealed in Advance Test DriveJul. 20, 2022, 1:15pm

On July 20, 2022, Nissan announced the new X-TRAIL (T33 model), a middle-class SUV, and started its sales on the same day. The T33 model was launched in North America in 2020 and in China in 2021 as a gasoline-powered model, but for the Japanese market, it will debut as a hybrid SUV equipped with e-POWER, in which all models are powered by VC Turbo e-POWER. 4WD includes e-4ORC, which, like the EV Aria, controls the driving force on all four wheels. The 4WD system employs e-4ORCE, which controls the driving force on all four wheels, just like the EV Aria. We took an advance test drive of the new Extrale.

A square body with tough gear!　The interior also has a superb quality feel.

The concept of the new Nissan X-TRAIL is “”Tough Gear,”” which is the DNA of the previous generation models, the inheritance of the “”cutting-edge technology”” of the previous generation T32, and the addition of a new “”high quality”” feel. In order to create a full-fledged SUV that can handle rough roads and snowy terrain, the new VC Turbo e-POWER technology, the latest CMF C/D platform, and e-4ORCE have been adopted. This configuration, which fully utilizes Nissan’s current technology, was introduced in Japan ahead of overseas markets.

The reason for the Japanese debut of the T33, nearly two years after its debut, was due to the difficulties encountered in the development of the new powertrain. Nevertheless, Nissan’s enthusiasm to debut this configuration in the Japanese market at any cost is very pleasing to Japanese fans.

The body size is 4660 (-30) in length x 1840 (+20) in width x 1720 (-20) in height, with a wheelbase of 2705 mm (±0) (figures in parentheses are compared to the previous generation). Compared to the previous generation, the squarer body shape gives the impression of being slightly larger, but the figures do not change much; in fact, the overall length has been shortened. However, the packaging of the vehicle’s interior has been improved to provide more space for the rear seats, and the luggage space has also been increased with a longer cargo area and a larger opening, resulting in a rather larger load capacity.

The interior of the new Nissan EXTRAIL is notable for its evolution. The interior is an orthodox type, different from the monolith (a display that looks like two LCDs connected together) of the Aria, Note, and Note Aura, but it features a 12.3-inch LCD meter, a 12.3-inch navigation monitor, and a large 10.8-inch head-up display (HUD), which is similar to the Toyota’s 12.3-inch HUD. The HUD is larger and easier to see than in the Toyota RAV4 and other models. The center console and dashboard area are well designed.

The seats in the high-end G grade are made of a new artificial leather material called “”Taylor Fit,”” and they feel really nice and firm to the touch. The regular fabric seats, despite their simple appearance, are not too bad in terms of comfort, probably due to their good shape. If you are going to use your car in the mountains or on the sea, you may want to choose fabric seats instead of leather seats.

VC turbo power generation is for quietness

We test drove the intermediate “”X”” grade, with the 1.5 liter VC Turbo e-POWER engine, and of course the e-4ORCE (4WD). FALKEN tires (ZIEX ZE310A ECORUN) of 235/60R18 were installed.

With the comfortable leather-wrapped steering wheel, we took the car for a test drive at GRANDRIVE, which is located next to Nissan’s Oppama plant. The first thing we noticed when we started driving slowly at low speeds was how quiet the cabin was, partly due to the 18-inch tires, but also due to the impression of a soft ride without feeling the unevenness of the road surface, giving the impression of a “”good car””. This quietness is second only to that of the Aria.

Accelerating up to 60 km/h, no engine noise is heard (although the engine is still revving according to the meter display), and when accelerating further up to 100 km/h, the throbbing sound of the VC turbo engine can finally be heard. In the e-POWER of the previous generation E12 Note, when the engine started, the engine sound came in with a hefty noise, which I was fed up with, but there is no such crass impression.

According to Ryozo Hirakou, Expert Leader of the Powertrain EV Technology Development Division (and General Manager of the Technology Planning Department of the Planning and Advanced Technology Development Division), power and noise are in direct proportion to each other because a normal engine delivers power by increasing its rpm. With the VC turbo, however, the compression ratio can be controlled to generate power without changing the rpm, resulting in quieter operation during power generation. This is the reason why the VC Turbo was adopted for the power generation engine. Incidentally, the engine is set to maintain rpm below 2000 until close to 100 km/h.

Even the driving performance has been given a sense of quality.

The e-POWER control system has been improved to reduce the frequency of engine operation, and the interior noise level while driving has been reduced by 3dB (approximately 30%) through the use of a highly sound-insulated body, additional sound-absorbing and sound-insulating materials, and front seat acoustic glass, in addition to the reduction of engine operation frequency. The interior noise level during driving has been reduced by 3dB (approximately 30%). Thanks to this impressive quietness, the EXTRAIL’s dynamic performance has also been given a sense of quality.

The e-4ORCE is said to have a positive effect, increasing chassis rigidity by 40%, front suspension lateral rigidity by 55%, and steering rigidity by 50% due to the change from the conventional column EPS to rack EPS. The conventional column EPS has been replaced by rack EPS, and the steering rigidity has also been increased by 50% to provide yaw response with less delay.

The response of the e-POWER was also as expected. When re-accelerating from deceleration or stepping up in a corner, the e-POWER responds quickly, allowing for a fast-paced driving experience. Incidentally, the e-Pedal does not come to a complete stop, but it smoothly decelerates to a slow speed of about 15 km/h, so the driver only needs to apply the brakes at the end.

Unfortunately, the e-4ORCE system was not effective enough for us to enjoy its effects on the clean paved road surface. e-4ORCE is not an on/off control system, but rather a constant intervention system, and the high line tracing performance was due in large part to the e-4ORCE system. However, if you go to the trouble, you want to feel the effects. We felt that we wanted to drive on a variety of road surfaces, including snow-covered roads.

More affordable than RAV4 and Harrier?

The new Extrail’s vehicle price (including tax) ranges from 3,190,000 yen to 4,290,000 yen for 2WD and 3,470,000 yen to 4,490,000 yen for 4WD (all e-4ORCE models). The EXTREME X, armed with front and rear bumpers, grille, roof rails, rear LED fog lights, and exclusively designed 18-inch wheels, starts at 4,120,000 yen. The high-end AUTECH model, with 20-inch tires, exclusive exterior and interior design, starts at 4,200,000 yen for the 2WD model and The 4WD model starts at 4,460,000 yen.

Compared to entry-level models from other manufacturers, such as the RAV4 Hybrid X (3,620,000 yen) and the Harrier Hybrid (3,800,000 yen), the new EXTRAIL (S e-4ORCE 3,470,000 yen) is slightly cheaper.

The best-selling model is expected to be the middle grade X e-4ORCE (from 3.79 million yen). Although the price is slightly higher than the previous-generation EXTRAIL HYBRID (3,620,000 yen for the 20Xi Hybrid), the X e-4ORCE is one rank higher in terms of equipment and offers better cost performance. As a vehicle that will support Nissan’s domestic market, the future trend of orders will be closely watched.”