Nissan X-Trail vs Toyota RAV4 comparison

Today our team has conducted an unusual experiment. While working on this article, we found out two things about the Nissan X-Trail and Toyota RAV4. Both cars are presented in both left-hand drive and right-hand drive versions. Of course, their engines differ in volume and power. But the share of right-hand drive vehicles in the Russian market is so negligible that we decided to omit this division. Therefore, in the table we provide data only for left-hand drive vehicles of the indicated models.

Dossier

Nissan of the future

In August, spies spotted a prototype of the new X-Trail wearing camouflage. The SUV of the future has been tested on American roads. Externally, the vehicle resembles the 2018 Xmotion. According to preliminary information, the base engine will remain a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 172 horsepower. Also in the plans is a new four for 2 liters with a capacity of 251 horses. The novelty will appear on the market in 2021.

The new 2020 model year has brought decorative changes to the exterior. The optics have slightly grown in size. Now it is LED, which gives an increase in the beam compared to previous years. The rear ones were slightly toned, giving a new chic without losing visibility in the fog.

In the cabin, a decrease in the steering wheel became noticeable. The steering wheel even sloped underneath. Sitting behind the wheel or in the back is even more fun thanks to heating in all known trim levels. True, for the rear passengers there is a note of disappointment - the button for turning on the heating is located between the front seats, access to the control area is limited.

The cargo hold is very spacious. It will fit 5 full suitcases - one for each passenger. The trunk can be opened either electrically or by swiping under the rear bumper. Experts note the convenience of this approach with busy hands. But in fact, this will not bring joy - after all, it is not clear what and how long it takes to open.

Already in the basic configuration with a two-liter engine and a manual transmission, a full package of active and passive safety is included - six airbags, child restraints. For comfort - a multimedia system, limited in functionality, heating of the front row of seats and navigation on the Glonass network. Electronic assistants, LED lights, panoramic retractable roof are optionally available. Choosing a paint other than white is worth the extra cost.

Toyota RAV4

The SUV will become a hybrid - along with the most powerful internal combustion engines, an electric version will also appear. Although something similar exists now - the gasoline 199-power engine is supplemented with a small-capacity electric motor. The hybrid is expected to increase overall power to 250 horsepower.

The current version uses a combination of a naturally aspirated four with Dynamic Force combined fuel injection and a nickel-metal hydride battery with a total output of 222 horses. Acceleration to 100 seconds reduced to 8 seconds.

The line of motors was supplemented by a two-liter engine with a new variator. The box has the first gear entirely mechanical. The total power has increased to 173 horsepower instead of the previous 146. Depending on weather conditions and coverage, the motor distributes torque in a ratio of 100% to the front axle or 4/5 of all power goes to the rear axle. And in electronics, a mode of imitation of the operation of cross-axle differential blocks appeared, which was so lacking earlier. And the rear-wheel drive is easy to disengage on perfectly flat road.

The proprietary driving mode selection system adjusts all important parameters. Eco mode is suitable for paved city streets and intercity highways, Normal for relatively flat suburbs. In sport mode, it is rational to overcome small off-road conditions. And for a real breakaway, Trail Mode will come in handy. The ride will be soft and comfortable due to the familiar multi-link suspension.

Who is more defective

Among the new cars in the US, both SUVs did not take top places in the J.D. Power, but brands in general are confidently in the top 10. Toyota closes it, but the merit of the Japanese - they left behind the podium the authentic American brands Buick, Ram, Cadillac. RAV4 added points to the brand in a sharp 6-point leap forward. Nissan's performance remained at last year's level, but it has managed to strengthen its position due to serious problems with Ram and Chevrolet, which manifested itself during the 2018 model year.

After 2 years, Toyota's breakdown rate is 4 percent with an average hitting of 45 thousand kilometers, according to the TUV2019 rating. There is no data on the X-Trail of a similar age. Obviously, he has no significant defects.

At the age of 4, the increase in broken RAV4 cars is insignificant - only 2 percent. Again, no data is available on the X-Trail.

Toyota's first problems begin after 6 years of operation. This is evidenced by the doubling of the number of breakdowns from the previous period. But then comes a period of stability. Even after 11 years of merciless operation, every fourth Toyota car fails. Nissan, on the other hand, can boast of a similar result.

Conclusions

It is impossible to draw an exact conclusion about competitors. Toyota's trick lies in proprietary technologies and seniority for 6 years. But Nissan does not stand still, but is actively developing. But both brands fully support the tactic of thinking through every little thing. Their cars are as reliable as the stability of the national currency. Any modification is suitable for those who want extreme and enjoyment of life.