Nissan has introduced a diesel powertrain to it’s X-Trail range for 2004, making it one of the most powerful engines in its segment.

The 2.2-litre 2184CC cDi powertrain has upped power from 114bhp to 136bhp and torque from 270 Nm to 314 Nm.

Add in a facelift, mostly to bumpers and wheels, and a few changes to the interior for a more modern day look.

The X-Trail attracts a lot of attention from those who may aspire to a bigger car but who really can’t afford one.

In looks, the X-Trail is not as high as your average 4x4. Long with sleek lines it comes with low roof rails. It is quite a biggish vehicle but in a very refined way.

But it is also a tough hard working 4x4 which can be driven in 4WD or 2WD mode to suit different terrains. It can be locked into 4WD when driving over rough terrain. When in use, the 4WD mode icon appears in green on the rev counter. It disappears when you change to the more economical 2WD mode.

On the road it’s comfortable and is very manageable to drive and manoeuvre so is equally at home being driven to the office or on for a bit of off-roading at weekends. I really can’t see it as a heavy vehicle for use down on the farm.

The X-Trail is termed as a ‘crossover’ vehicle between the best of on-road and off-road driving.

The new diesel version doesn’t drive like a diesel when out on the road. Except for the greater torque which you won’t find in a petrol equivalent. The extra power really does make a terrific difference and makes driving a real pleasure.

The engine is powered by a 6-speed manual gear box with which I had absolutely no problem. The radio is good with user friendly buttons and knobs. The review car came with a 6CD changer and six speakers.

Getting in and out is made easy because of the wide door openings and the sills built in to the bottoms of the doors.

The huge cargo area comes with a special hard trim floor which can be removed and washed after carrying mucky items. Underneath is a spare wheel and a deep well area. A cargo net is provided to help prevent items from sliding around when on the move. Another benefit is that the wide cargo door hinging from the roofline provides shelter from the elements when loading or unloading.

The review car, which came with the Elegance specification, had luxurious and supportive leather seats. The driver also has the benefit of a high commanding driving position and great all round visibility. Instrument dials dominate the centre front fascia and feature white numbers against a dark background.

This means the drivers seat can be moved to whichever setting is best without there being any risk of the dials being obscured by the steering wheel.

On the fascia there is even a can holder for keeping your drinks hot or cold.

Bits and pieces can be stored in the big glove box or in the deep cubby beneath the front armrest. Although it can slide forward a bit, this is not really an armrest option for me as when I move the seat forward for a good driving position, it’s still too far behind for me to use for that purpose.

When driving the car along a twisty, narrow and much potholed side road, I had good reason to use the horn on a number of occasions. Only I felt it was too mild by far and failed to match the strength of the vehicle.

The basic specification includes ABS + EBD, driver and passenger airbags, automatic climate control, CD/radio, 4 speakers, electric windows, remote central door locking, electric door mirrors, rear seat recline, UV filter glass, door step lights, Isofix, and Nissan Brake Assist.

The Elegance specced review car had leather seats, a very large skyroof with manual slider, 6 speakers, 6CD changer/radio, leather steering wheel, leather shift knob and brake lever, side airbags, front fog lamps, heated power adjustable front seats, and power foldable door mirrors. It also sported a hands-on mobile phone holder located on the dash.

It’s a very practical car for everyday use, even more so with the addition of the diesel engine which gives a combined return of 39.2mpg.

Maximum speed is 112mph and the car accelerates from 0-62mph in 11.5 secs.

Prices are €34,995.00 for the 2.0- petrol; €36,995.00 for the 2.2d Diesel; and €39,995.00 for the 2.2d Diesel Elegance.