Nissan X-Trail hybrid revealed

KUALA LUMPUR: In today’s automotive landscape, the latest trend seems to be the ability to turn standard models into hybrid ones. Combining the ability of a hybrid system with the strength of a crossover vehicle is considered as an intelligent move. And Nissan has done exactly the same with its hybridised version of the Rogue, also known as the X-Trail.

The exterior of the hybrid Rogue resembles a lot with the standard model. The only difference in the exteriors is the presence of a pair of electrically-assisted hybrid badges on the front doors and tailgate. The interior of the hybrid Rogue carries additional energy and battery status monitor. The interior design of this car is inspired mainly by the gas-powered models of Nissan.

The Rogue Hybrid sports a combination of a 2.0-litre engine (seen in the local 2WD X-Trail) and 30 kW electric motor. The gas engine gives out 141 PS while the electric motor produces an additional 40 PS. Thus, the combined power output the Rogue Hybrid makes is 176 PS. Apart from the regular commute role, this electrical drive system keeps the power running when the car is stationary. With the presence of Nissan’s Xtronic, shifting is done easily through variable transmissions. 

Two variants of the Nissan Rogue Hybrid come with front-wheel drive as standard, but there is also an option of the all-wheel-drive system. This model is equipped with regenerative braking to top up the battery charge, like the one in most hybrids. The US Environmental Protection Agency says that the Rogue Hybrid with all-wheel drive can go up to 33 miles per gallon or 14 kmpl in mixed driving conditions.

The X-Trail by Nissan is a promising car carrying a hybrid system in a crossover. The exterior and the interior of the vehicle are designed in a format similar to that of the standard Nissan models, with little additions. This car is powered by a combination of a reliable engine and a responsive electric motor, collectively producing a decent 176 PS.