The concept of e-4ORCE is to deliver the feeling of driving an electric vehicle because the X-Trail e-Power is powered by dual electric motors. The gasoline engine, a 3-cylinder KR15DDT with turbocharging, generates electricity to charge the battery. The e-Power drivetrain in the X-Trail is combined with Nissan’s new electric all-wheel-drive system called e-4ORCE, which uses dual motors producing a combined 157 kilowatts (213 horsepower).
The New NISSAN X-TRAIL e-POWER x e-4ORCE is officially priced at 1,699,000 baht and imported from Japan (CBU).
The all-wheel-drive system powered by dual electric motors mounted on the front and rear axles responds faster than conventional internal combustion engine four-wheel-drive systems (though slightly less quick and torque-rich than fully electric dual-motor vehicles). Since the engine’s role is only to generate electricity for the battery, it does not produce torque directly. Nissan states that e-4ORCE responds noticeably faster than direct mechanical four-wheel-drive systems. It also offers more versatile capabilities through its electronic AWD-by-wire system, including precise torque control to each wheel, distributing torque front to rear and side to side to maximize vehicle balance via the ESP stability system. The e-4ORCE drive system is a new Nissan technology. Although its operation is complex, the driving feel during acceleration, cornering, and braking differs from pure electric vehicles; it is similar to a four-wheel-drive car with a quieter engine and slightly superior acceleration potential.
The battery can run on pure electric power for only 2-3 kilometers. However, the 3-cylinder engine’s efficiency in recharging the battery is very high, charging quickly. This means the gasoline engine operates continuously during acceleration but remains surprisingly quiet at low RPMs when driving in the city at speeds of 50-60 km/h. This mid-size SUV is tuned for aggressive driving; the system supplies more power to the motors when the accelerator is pressed continuously. The engine acts as a generator, continuously producing electricity to meet the motors’ power demands on the front and rear axles. It can charge the battery directly in key driving situations, while regenerative braking recovers energy when braking. The battery’s maximum electrical power output is 66 kilowatts.
For those using the e-Power drivetrain for the first time, the X-Trail e-Power may feel somewhat inconsistent or confusing when the engine is charging the battery while driving. Often, the engine runs to charge the battery and emits a humming or high-pitched whine (due to the three-cylinder gasoline engine). When stationary and the battery is low, the engine immediately starts to generate electricity. This is the nature of e-Power technology, which may feel strange initially but becomes similar to a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) after some use, both at low speeds and during sustained highway driving.
The X-Trail has a second electric motor installed on the rear axle. The rear motor provides 100 kilowatts, but the vehicle’s maximum power is not simply the sum of the 150 kilowatts from the front axle and 100 kilowatts from the rear, totaling 250 kilowatts, because the engine and battery in the e-Power system cannot supply that much electric power. The system’s maximum output is 157 kilowatts, but it delivers a high maximum torque of 525 Newton-meters. The strong torque enables flexible distribution of torque between the front and rear axles for balanced power delivery, reducing pitching during acceleration and braking.
With 150 kilowatts and 330 Newton-meters at the front axle and 100 kilowatts and 195 Newton-meters at the rear, the X-Trail e-4ORCE accelerates faster than a 2.0-liter internal combustion four-wheel-drive SUV (from Japan), achieving 0-100 km/h in 7 seconds. This is a well-balanced acceleration, as anything faster around 6 seconds could be difficult for average drivers to control. The 55-liter fuel tank allows a full tank range of approximately 900 kilometers.
The X-Trail e-Power with e-4ORCE makes a strong first impression: it is quiet and smooth at low speeds, able to run purely on electric power for 2-3 kilometers or slightly more. At low speeds, the electric motors require minimal power, so the internal combustion engine does not need to maintain high RPMs continuously. The new X-Trail also features Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), making the gasoline engine quieter than usual and almost inaudible when not accelerating. However, its launch from a stop does not match the strong, instant torque and responsiveness of fully electric dual-motor vehicles because the combustion engine needs time to ramp up to generate peak energy. The e-Power system responds faster at moderate to high speeds. When fully accelerating, engine noise increases only slightly. The e-4ORCE technology appears effective in controlling vehicle dynamics, as the X-Trail does not nosedive under hard braking nor wallow during continuous acceleration through alternating curves.
Regenerative braking offers adjustable levels of energy recovery. In Drive mode (D), braking feel is light, but increased regeneration can be activated by shifting the gear lever briefly backward into mode B. The X-Trail also includes an e-Pedal mode similar to the Nissan Leaf, providing stronger regenerative braking that almost eliminates the need to use the brake pedal. However, passengers may feel discomfort if the driver lifts off the accelerator abruptly, as the strong deceleration causes a slight forward lurch. Adjusting regenerative braking to a moderate level makes it more suitable for typical driving. The Eco mode disables regenerative braking, ideal for steady driving to improve energy efficiency.
A brief test drive at the Yokohama test track near Rayong, featuring a variety of gentle uphill and downhill slopes and numerous curves, showed impressive results. This track has more corners than typical racing circuits. The e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive system combined with the suspension and electric steering delivers an impressive experience. At higher speeds in later laps, all systems respond quickly and coordinate smoothly. The track includes winding mountain roads and a dedicated high-speed paved section. The vehicle felt remarkably composed even when passing through water puddles on the surface. Undoubtedly, the test track was designed to highlight the vehicle’s strengths, especially the grip of the Korean Hankook Ventus S1 evo3 SUV tires. These ultra-high-performance tires provide excellent traction on wet and dry roads, precise steering control, smoothness, and fuel efficiency thanks to ProMileage and HSSC Silica compound technology. This tire model is used on European brands and complements the firm suspension well. Overall, the X-Trail is not a sporty or off-road SUV but a family crossover capable of balanced performance in all weather and terrain conditions.
The vehicle offers five driving modes, though they are rarely used since the intelligent drivetrain calculates the torque needed for each wheel automatically. The e-4ORCE system includes downhill control and two off-road modes, plus modes that reduce throttle response on slippery surfaces and a high-performance mode for agile driving.
Driving control and overall performance are considered very good. The X-Trail e-4ORCE drives smoothly and confidently on winding paved roads. The e-4ORCE system works well to steer the X-Trail precisely in the desired direction, instilling confidence even at higher speeds on wet, water-covered pavement. The ability to transfer power from front to rear or side to side almost instantly improves road grip and vehicle stability.
One missing element is the 'engine revving' sensation felt in hybrid vehicles with CVT transmissions when pressing the accelerator to prompt combined engine and electric motor operation. Nissan explains this is partly because the small three-cylinder engine is designed to operate at RPMs matched continuously to vehicle speed without abrupt rev changes. This avoids the disconnected feeling common in some CVT hybrids. The engine speed increases linearly with vehicle speed, simulating a fixed-gear electric vehicle’s acceleration. During gentle acceleration, the engine RPM is kept low, keeping noise levels down. Even during sustained aggressive acceleration, engine noise remains relatively quiet, helped by active noise cancellation speakers installed in the cargo area. Under normal driving, engine noise is faint during strong acceleration and often barely noticeable.
The X-Trail’s cabin is reasonably luxurious, with good build quality and materials in the test vehicle. The interior design blends technology and practicality seamlessly. It includes full digital instrumentation and infotainment displays, each 12.3 inches, plus a large Head-Up Display (HUD) covering a 35.5-inch viewing area, as claimed by Nissan.
The screen quality cannot compete with the sharpness found in some Chinese electric vehicles. The X-Trail’s displays are not as crisp or vibrant as those in similarly priced competitors. However, the new X-Trail offers ample storage space. The rear seats fold and slide, with a 6-seat configuration option. Additionally, it has a convenient 40/20/40 split-folding seat setup, making it easy to carry long items. The third-row seats offer limited legroom, suitable more for children or pets than tall adults.
The front cabin is spacious. When the second-row seats are slid fully rearward, two adults up to 180 cm tall can sit comfortably, and even three can fit due to the wide, flat middle seat and a small center tunnel. The third-row seats are relatively flat and easily accessible through rear doors that open up to 85 degrees.
In reality, the X-Trail is better considered a five-seater with two extra foldable seats at the rear. To seat passengers in the third row, the second-row seats must be slid forward to provide adequate legroom. The vehicle features three-zone climate control with independent temperature settings, built-in rear door sunshades, and a large 575-liter cargo area, among the largest in its class. The Divide-n-Hide storage system adds versatility with foldable rear seats and a power tailgate. Other features include a panoramic sunroof, 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation, a 10.8-inch HUD, wireless phone charging, wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity, and a 12.3-inch digital TFT instrument cluster with two display modes.
The interior reflects Japanese car design, with frequently used functions accessible via physical buttons, such as climate controls. The gear selector is a compact e-shifter with separate buttons for EV mode (prioritizing battery electric power until depleted) and e-Pedal, which enables one-pedal driving by increasing regenerative braking to slow and stop the car when the accelerator is released, similar to the Nissan Leaf. The center console features a distinctive butterfly-style opening, a hallmark of European cars. The third-row seats fold in a 40/20/40 split, and the second row slides 220 millimeters. The power tailgate opens up to 85 degrees, nearly 90 degrees. The Bose sound system includes nine speakers, and rear window sunshades are automatic. The tailgate supports hands-free operation.
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In summary, the X-Trail e-POWER delivers a powerful and impressively capable SUV with driving performance and traction comparable to the CR-V e:HEV. Its strengths lie in agility and driving dynamics rather than pure fuel economy. Those values are above average among competitors in the same class. It achieves reasonable fuel efficiency and offers a comprehensive and attractive design, which should enhance its appeal in showrooms. However, being fully imported from Japan at a price of 1.69 million baht makes it seem somewhat expensive.
Key Features
Electric panoramic glass roof with power open/close and electric sunshade.
Power tailgate with automatic open/close sensors.
Active Noise Cancellation technology.
Three-zone independent climate control system.
BOSE® Premium Audio System with NissanConnect supporting Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
12.3-inch touchscreen display.
12.3-inch color TFT driver information display with Head-Up Display.
Electronic parking brake and Auto Brake Hold.
Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC).
Descent Control System (DCS) for speed control on downhill slopes.
Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Additional advanced safety features.
Two-tone exterior paint options (White Storm White with black roof, Silver Champagne Silver with black roof, and Stealth Gray with black roof) add 20,000 baht; White Storm White alone adds 12,000 baht.
Engine
Fuel type: Gasoline.
Transmission: Single Speed Gear Reduction automatic.
Powertrain: e-POWER system.
Drive motors (front/rear): BM46 / MM48.
Maximum motor power (front/rear): 204PS (150kW) at 4,501-7,422 RPM / 136PS (100kW) at 4,897-9,504 RPM.
Maximum motor torque (front/rear): 330Nm at 0-3,505 RPM / 195Nm at 0-4,897 RPM.
Engine (for electricity generation).
Engine KR15DDT (for electricity generation).
3-cylinder inline VC-Turbo engine (variable compression turbocharged).
Fuel injection system: Direct injection.
Number of cylinders: 3.
Bore x stroke: 84.0 x 90.1 mm.
Displacement: 1,497 cc.
Maximum power: 144PS (106kW) at 4,400-5,000 RPM.
Maximum torque: 250 Nm at 2,400-4,000 RPM.
Variable compression ratio: 8.0-14.0 : 1.
Fuel tank capacity: 55 liters.
Fuel consumption.
Fuel efficiency: 17 km/l.
CO2 emissions: 130 g/km.
Emission standard: TIS 3017-2563 (EURO 6).
Dimensions and weight.
Overall length: 4,680 mm.
Overall width: 1,840 mm.
Overall height: 1,725 mm.
Wheelbase: 2,705 mm.
Front/rear track width: 1,585 / 1,590 mm.
Ground clearance: 185 mm.
Approximate vehicle weight: 1,929 kg.
Suspension system.
Front: Independent strut suspension.
Rear: Independent multi-link suspension.
Steering system: Rack and pinion with electric power assist (EPS), adjustable in 4 directions, minimum turning radius 5.4 m.
Braking system.
Front: Ventilated disc brakes.
Rear: Ventilated disc brakes.
Wheels and tires.
19 x 7.5 ET40 alloy wheels with Ventus S1 evo3 SUV (K127) 235/55R19 tires; emergency tire repair kit included.
19" black diamond-cut alloy wheels.
Exterior standard equipment.
Glossy black front grille with chrome trim.
LED projector headlights with auto on/off and LED signature lights.
LED daytime running lights (DRL).
Automatic headlight on/off system.
Follow-me-home headlights.
Front LED fog lights.
LED taillights.
Power tailgate with sensors and body-colored side mirrors.
Black side mirrors with electric adjustment, folding, and turn signals.
Automatic side mirror folding when locking the car.
Speed-sensing front windshield wipers with intermittent delay.
Rear wiper with delay and defogger.
Timed rear window.
Electric panoramic glass roof with electric sunshade.
Roof rails.
Acoustic glass windshield and front door windows to reduce outside noise.
Interior standard equipment.
Driver and front passenger seats with 10-way electric adjustment and electric lumbar support.
Second-row seats split 40:20:40, sliding front-back, reclining, with center armrest.
Third-row seats split 50:50, fold flat into floor.
Dashboard trimmed with synthetic black leather featuring gray stitching (TBC).
Leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls.
Steering wheel telephone controls.
Controls for TFT driver display and Intelligent Cruise Control on steering wheel.
Auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Drive mode selector button.
EV mode selector button.
e-Pedal step throttle system.
12.3-inch color TFT driver information display with 10.8-inch Head-Up Display, front map lights, and cabin illumination.
Cargo area lights.
Six cup holders.
Front center armrest with dual-opening storage compartments.
Second-row center armrest.
Storage under center console and front glove box.
Rear passenger sunshades.
Cargo cover panel.
Three-zone automatic climate control for driver, front passenger, and rear passengers.
12.3-inch touchscreen supporting Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto®.
12V power outlet.
Front USB Type-A and Type-C ports.
Rear USB Type-A and Type-C ports for charging only.
Wireless charging pad.
BOSE Premium Audio System with nine speakers and ambient lighting.
Safety and technology features.
e-Pedal Step system.
Dual front SRS airbags.
Side airbags.
Side curtain airbags.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Brake Assist (BA).
Electronic Parking Brake.
Auto Brake Hold.
Front and rear parking sensors.
Immobilizer key system.
Anti-theft alarm system.
ISOFIX child seat anchors.
Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) during sudden braking.
Third brake light.
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) stability system.
Hill Start Assist (HSA).
Descent Control System (DCS).
Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (IFCW).
Intelligent Emergency Braking (IEB).
Driver Attention Alert (DAA).
Intelligent Around View Monitor (IAVM) camera system.
Moving Object Detection (MOD) alerts from surround cameras.
Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC).
Blind Spot Warning (BSW).
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).
Lane Departure Warning (LDW).
High Beam Assist (HBA).
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians (VSP) alert system.
Driver’s seat ELR seatbelt with pretensioner on all seats.
Front seats with double pre-tensioners and load limiters.
Second-row seats with pre-tensioners and load limiters.
Child safety door lock system.