Honda CR-V Vs Nissan X-Trail Comparison

Honda CR-V
VS

Nissan X-Trail

This is the Honda CR-V Vs Nissan X-Trail comparison for 2017. With the release of the 2018 CR-V and a refreshed X-Trail this comparison was in order. The 2017 X-Trail model has been around since 2013 and this was the first refresh since then. There is not much to complain about as a daily driver only when actually trying to drive it will complaints start to mount due to the CVT auto transmission. We like the X-Trail current model although not our top choice and that’s aided by it’s consistent pricing deals. The new CR-V in isolation looks great but against it competitors flaws as also starting to show.

Honda CR-V Vs Nissan X-Trail exterior: Much of the refreshed X-Trail exterior is visible by slightly larger V front end and darker colored rear lights but it’s always been nice but conservative SUV to look at. The CR-V likewise has always been a nice looking SUV too and the new model continues that theme but is ow best described as more aggressive than past models. As usual ‘beauty is in the eye of the beholder’ but we prefer the CR-V as it looks more modern and muscular and now upmarket.

Honda CR-V Vs Nissan X-Trail interior: Despite it’s relative age the interior of the X-Trail interior is pretty good. The actual design is timeless and conventional and to be completely honest it would only take an upgrade of the materials and a design revisions to keep it current. The materials used through the cabin are nice for their age but there are cheaper parts like the black plastic around the stereo system that really should be have been replaced in the refreshed model. The new C-RV has a nicer and more modern interior which is better than the older X-Trail. The CR-V has a more flexible layout, design and feels bigger despite similar dimensions on the outside. The CR-V short fall in interior quality are mainly little things like the sliver plastic trim as opposed to real metal which was annoying to us.

Honda CR-V Vs Nissan X-Trail engine and technology: Both X-Trail nd CR-V have CVT Automatic transmissions which is a flaw or benefit. Likewise the small turbo in the CR-V combined with a CVT can be good and bad. The non turbo petrols in the X-Trail is decent enough as long as you don’t get the base model with the the 2.0 engine which is underpowered but you can always get a turbo diesel if that’s your thing. The single engine in the CR-V is good starter engine but hopefully it will be given a turbo boost – literally to give it class leading power rather than just sufficient. There is more standard safety systems in the X-Trail which is surprising, we applaud standard auto braking in all models which is only available on the top range CR-V as standard. The Honda also has a flashy digital instrument panel and Apple and Android compatibility which are bonuses but it doesn’t outweigh the Auto-braking in the X-Trail. Overall the CR-V does not move the tech or engine benchmark whereas the X-Trail does in the one important area of safety.

Honda CR-V Vs Nissan X-Trail drive report: To be completely honest the CVT in the X-Trail is liveable as long so you don’t actually want to drive it enthusiastically and if you learn to drive it like a CVT as opposed to a regular auto. The electric steering is OK for use but not feel and the ride is too much like a regular car. We are yet to drive the new CR-V so can assume that is dissimilar in operation.

The conclusion and winner to the new Honda CR-V Vs Nissan X-Trail comparison is a draw! The X-Trail has lots to command it. The standard auto brakes is a winner, diesel option is handy but expensive however the CVT, missing smartphone connectivity and older design are short falls. The CR-V has a nicer interior, exterior, more connectivity and more power but missing safety systems that should be standard and or course the CVT. In terms of pricing the CR-V is equal to the X-Trail taking into account price for features except for the auto brakes in the Nissan so ultimately your choice will depend on which one you like the look of more and/or which one you can live with.

2018 Honda CR-V Nissan X-Trail
Engines
IL4 Cylinder – Petrol
DOHC DI IC Turbo
1.5 Litre (1498cc)
Claimed 140Kw @ 5600RPM
Claimed 240Nm @ 2000RPM
IL 4 Cylinder Petrol (QR25)
DOHC VVT EFI
2.5 Litre (2488cc)
Claimed 126Kw @ 6000RPM
Claimed 226Nm @ 4400RPM
IL 4 Cylinder Petrol (MR20)
DOHC VVT EFI
2.0 Litre (1998cc)
Claimed 106Kw @ 6000RPM
Claimed 200Nm @ 4400RPM
IL 4 Cylinder Turbo Diesel (M9R)
Direct Injection Common Rail EFI
2.0 Litre (1995cc)
Claimed 96Kw @ 4000RPM
Claimed 320Nm @ 1750RPM
Weight
Kerb weight FROM 1536Kg
Towing capacity up to 1500Kg
FROM 1437 Kg
Towing capacity up to 1500kg
Fuel capacity & consumption
Up to 57 litres (Claimed)
1.5 Turbo Petrol: 7.3 litres per 100km
Up to 60 litres (Claimed)
IL4 Petrol 2.0lt 8.2 litres per 100km
IL4 Petrol 2.5lt 8.3 litres per 100km
IL4 Diesel 2.0lt 5.3 litres per 100km
Other specifications
CVT Auto
Overall height/width 1679/1855
Overall length/wheelbase 4596/2660
Drive system: FWD or On Demand AWD
NCAP safety rating 5/5
6 speed manual or CVT with programmed 7 speeds
Overall height/width 1710/1820
Overall length/Wheelbase 4640/2705
4WD system: Selectable 2WD or AWD
ANCAP Safety: 5/5
Capability
Angle of: (degrees) xx
Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx
Ground clearancexxx
Water Fording depth xxxmm Max
Angle of: (degrees)
Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx
Ground clearance (unloaded) xxxmm
Water Fording depth xxmm Max
Performance
Pricing
2017  $30,690 – $44,290 AUD 2017 $27,990 – 47,990 AUD
*Always check with the dealer for up to date pricing and specials accessories etc…