Stock #7018
Exterior Overview
We’re puzzled as to why the Nissan X-Trail never graced our US domestic market. It’s built to compete with the likes of the CR-V and Rav4, yet offers up more ground clearance, increased interior space, and real-deal selective 4WD, which the others lack. It’s a stout unit too, underpinned by a frugal 2.0 that’s also available stateside. The styling is decidedly Japanese, featuring a tall liftback design, and this 2000 X-Trail boasts one-off army green paintwork, OEM adjustable Xenon headlamps, multicoat fog lamps, and RV Inno snowboard racks. Save for a few minor dings and defects in the paint, the cosmetics are head-turning nonetheless, with the aesthetic rounded off by 16″ aftermarket alloys and OEM rainguards. Best of all, the 63k miles on the clock are verified, documented, and give this X-Trail an appealing position in the market. Sized similarly to a crossover, yet boasting the real off-road capability that adventurous types require, it’s easy to see why this Japanese Classic is sure to develop a cult following!
Interior Overview
The interior is cleverly designed, and it feels straight out of the new millennium. Nylon sport mesh upholstery covers all seating surfaces, and aside from a few minor stains, it resisted the rigors of daily use and abuse nicely. The same can be said for the textured dash cover. For safety conscious occupants, dual front and side SRS airbags were made standard, and the driver can tilt adjust the steering column to their liking. All instrumentation is mounted centrally, including the gauge cluster, and the switchgear below is easy to navigate. Digital automatic climate control works like a charm, and has cold A/C and hot heat on tap for those living in seasonal climates. Adjacent to the HVAC, upgraded BOSS audio gives the driver access to US FM frequencies, and Bluetooth integration to pump in their own tunes. Power windows, locks, and power folding side mirrors are on hand to assist daily use, and a massive power moonroof engulfs most of the headliner. It functions too, in case you want to pummel your passengers with natural airflow. The rear bench can recline slightly for additional comfort, and it can fold into a flat loading floor to expand the cargo hold in the rear. Save for missing factory cupholders, we think this cabin puts up a good fight, and it works perfectly for 21st century lifestyles. That’s not to say the cabin is in rough shape, as the remaining materials are clean, from the headliner to the carpets and hard rubber trunk floor!
Mechanical Overview
The QR20 engine under the hood is a rock solid unit, and it was offered domestically in Altima and Sentra models. This means parts are easy as pie to get, allowing us to give this one a comprehensive recent service. This X-Trail aced state inspection, and cranks over with the twist of a key. As is standard procedure, an oil and filter service was performed to get you on track for future maintenance schedules, and we installed a new engine air filter for good measure. The four banger has enough pep to push this crossover up to highway speeds, and a 4 speed automatic gearbox does a swell job at putting the power to the ground. The driver has the option to switch between 2WD and automatic 4WD, and for expeditions on loose surfaces, the 4WD can be locked in full-time. We replaced both front CV axles, and performed a fluid exchange on the front and rear differentials to bolster the drivetrain. The lifted suspension is a welcome upgrade over stock, and it cruises comfortably even over larger road imperfections. We replaced both front and rear swaybar endlinks with new ones, to assist handling. The power steering is easy to direct, and we bolstered the ABS brakes with new front brake pads. The aftermarket alloys are wrapped in good BFG all terrain rubber, that also gives this crossover an imposing stance on pavement. Although the chunky mud terrains are a bit noisy, they’re comfortable for daily driving, and look dang good on all four corners!
*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB compliant first. CARB certifications will have to be performed within the state. Depending on the vehicle and any existing modifications will affect the pricing. Typically CARB compliance will range between 5-10K. Additional information can be found on the California Air Resources Board website.
