Nissan X-Trail T31 (2007–2013) - one of the most popular crossovers on the secondary market, prized for its reliability and spacious interior. But when it comes to transporting large cargo, owners are most often concerned about the trunk: what kind of luggage does it have? exact dimensions, how to load things correctly and how much is it inferior to competitors in terms of volume? In this article we will analyze all the nuances - from official data to life hacks for increasing usable space.
Model T31 was produced in several modifications (including restyling in 2010), but the dimensions of the luggage compartment remained virtually unchanged. However, there are key points to consider: e.g. trunk shape (tapering towards the rear door) or loading opening height, which may make loading heavy items difficult. If you plan to transport furniture, bicycles or construction materials, this information will help you avoid unpleasant surprises.
Official trunk dimensions of Nissan X-Trail T31
According to technical documentation Nissan, luggage compartment X-Trail T31 has the following parameters as standard (excluding folded second row seats):
- 📏 Length (from rear seat back to rear door): 850–870 mm
- 📐 Width (between wheel arches): 1000–1020 mm
- 📊 Width (maximum, at the rear door): 1200 mm
- ↕️ Height (from floor to ceiling): 800–820 mm
- 📦 Volume: 410–450 liters (depending on configuration)
Please note that actual measurements may vary slightly due to body shapes and the presence of niches (for example, for a spare wheel). For example, in versions with all-wheel drive (4WD) the height of the trunk floor may be 20–30 mm higher due to the driveshaft. It is also worth considering that loading height (from the ground to the edge of the boot) is about 750 mm - higher than many hatchbacks, but lower than classic SUVs.
With the second row seats folded (60:40 split), the length of the luggage compartment increases to 1780–1800 mm, and the volume is up to 1450–1500 liters. However, there is a nuance here: the seats do not fold completely flush with the floor, forming a step ~100 mm high. This can make it difficult to transport long items such as boards or skis.
- Often (once a week or more)
- Sometimes (once a month)
- Occasionally (several times a year)
- Never, only for small things
Comparison with competitors: who is more spacious?
To evaluate how much the trunk X-Trail T31 practical, let's compare it with the main competitors in the class of compact crossovers of the same generation (2007–2013):
| Model | Trunk volume (l) | Length (mm) | Width between arches (mm) | Height (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan X-Trail T31 | 410–450 | 850–870 | 1000–1020 | 800–820 |
| Toyota RAV4 (XA30) | 405–450 | 830 | 980 | 780 |
| Honda CR-V (RD5-RD7) | 520–550 | 950 | 1050 | 850 |
| Mitsubishi Outlander (CU2W) | 440–500 | 880 | 1030 | 810 |
| Subaru Forester (SH) | 450–500 | 900 | 1080 | 830 |
From the table it is clear that X-Trail T31 is approximately in the middle of the ranking in terms of volume, second to Honda CR-V And Subaru Forester, but ahead Toyota RAV4. However width between arches at Nissan one of the largest is a plus for transporting wide loads (for example, strollers or boxes). But the trunk is inferior in length - this can be critical when transporting long objects.
Interesting fact: in versions with panoramic sunroof The height of the trunk is reduced by 30–40 mm due to the protruding mechanism. If you often transport high loads (such as refrigerators or cabinets), it is worth paying attention to this when purchasing.
To make the most of the space, do not fold the second row seats completely, but only one section (60% or 40%). This will allow you to carry long loads while maintaining space for a passenger in the second row.
Practical tips for loading the trunk
Even knowing the exact dimensions, many owners X-Trail T31 encountering problems while loading. Here are some proven recommendations:
- 🔧 Use organizers: Plastic boxes or hard-sided bags will help avoid the “avalanche effect,” where things fall off when you brake. Optimal box size for X-Trail — 50×35×30 cm.
- 🚲 For bicycles: If you don't want to buy a roof rack, remove the front wheel and lay the bike diagonally from the corner of the rack to the back of the folded seat. This will even fit a mountain bike with a 19-20 inch frame.
- 🛠️ Transportation of building materials: for drywall or chipboard use
rubber gasketsbetween the sheets to avoid scratching the plastic of the trunk. The maximum length of the sheet that will fit with the seats folded is 175 cm. - ❄️ Winter tires: 4 wheels measuring 225/60 R17 will fit in the trunk only if you lay them vertically (one on top of the other) and first deflate to 1.5 atm.
Pay special attention weight distribution. In the operating instructions Nissan it is indicated that the maximum load on the trunk is 150 kg (for versions with petrol engine 2.0/2.5) and 200 kg (for diesel 2.0 dCi). Exceeding this limit can lead to sagging of the rear suspension and poor handling.
Make sure the spare tire and tools are in place|Check the cargo net attachments (if equipped)|Distribute the load so that heavy items are closer to the seatbacks|Secure the load with straps or bungee cords|Leave easy access to the jack and first aid kit-->
Upgrading the trunk: what can be improved?
If the standard trunk volume is not enough for you, consider the following upgrade options:
- Installing the luggage net (original from Nissan - art.
B4540-9M000). It is attached to the ceiling and allows you to place small items (bags, backpacks) above the main load without taking up useful space. - Replacing the standard mat on rubber with sides (for example, WeatherTech or Lloyd Mats). This will protect the casing from dirt and allow you to transport bulk cargo (sand, gravel) without the risk of damaging the interior.
- Additional mounts: in the trunk X-Trail T31 There are 4 standard hooks for securing the load. You can buy more
Thule railsor similar to attach luggage boxes or ski holders. - Electric rear door (optional for restyled versions). Makes loading easier if the trunk is full to capacity.
One of the most popular tuning options is removing a "step" with the seats folded down. To do this, workshops offer a service for remaking the hinge of the second row so that the seats lie flush with the floor. The cost of such work starts from 15,000 rubles, but it greatly simplifies the transportation of long cargo.
How can I remove the step myself when the seats are folded?
To do this you will need:
1. Remove the trunk trim and the second row of seats.
2. Install additional hinges or modify the standard ones (for example, using a welding machine).
3. Strengthen the trunk floor with metal plates 2–3 mm thick.
⚠️ Without experience in such work, it is better to contact a car service - mistakes can lead to breakdown of the seat folding mechanism.
Common mistakes when using the trunk
Many owners X-Trail T31 make the same mistakes, which eventually lead to breakdowns or damage. Here are the most common ones:
⚠️ Attention: Never place heavy objects (such as batteries or weights) on the plastic cover of the spare tire compartment. It is designed for a load of up to 20 kg and can crack, blocking access to the spare tire.
- 🔋 Ignoring Weight Distribution: If all the load is concentrated on one side, it may cause
body distortionand uneven tire wear. - 🚪 Sudden closing of the rear door with a full trunk. This increases the load on the gas struts, which begin to “sag” over time.
- 🧹 Storing dirty things (shovels, brushes, shoes) without protection. Sand and moisture penetrate the casing, causing metal corrosion and an unpleasant odor.
- 🔌 Connecting refrigerators or compressors to the cigarette lighter without checking the power. Standard socket X-Trail T31 designed for 120 W - exceeding this may lead to a blown fuse
F37 (15A).
Another typical problem is back door freezing in winter. If the seal wears out, moisture gets into the lock mechanism and the door may freeze. To avoid this, treat the seal with silicone grease and check the operation of the drainage holes at the bottom of the door (they often become clogged with dirt).
Regularly check the condition of the rear door gas stops - their service life is about 50,000 opening/closing cycles. If there are signs of “sagging” (the door does not lock in the open position), replace the stops with a pair, even if only one is broken.
Alternative methods of transporting goods
If the trunk dimensions X-Trail T31 do not allow you to transport the required cargo, consider alternative options:
- 🚗 Roof rack: original roof rails from Nissan (art.
999T5-GN000) can withstand up to 75 kg. Boxes are suitable for transporting skis or snowboards Thule or Hapro volume 400–500 l. - 🛵 Tow bar and trailer: X-Trail T31 certified to tow trailers weighing up to 1500 kg (braked). Please note that diesel versions require
additional transmission cooling. - 📦 Cargo module: Some companies offer removable racks that attach to the tow bar. For example, Mulgo or Bosal — their volume reaches 600 liters.
When choosing a roof rack, consider aerodynamics: models with a streamlined shape (for example, Thule Motion XT) increase fuel consumption by only 0.3–0.5 l/100 km, while universal boxes can add up to 1.5 l/100 km. Also check the compatibility of the fasteners with the roof rails of your version X-Trail — after restyling in 2010, the shape of the crossbars changed.
If you plan to use the trailer frequently, install additional rear view mirror (art. 999M2-GN000) - it improves visibility and is mandatory for trailers with a width of more than 1.6 m.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions
Can it be transported in the trunk? X-Trail T31 gas cylinder?
Technically yes, but subject to safety rules: the cylinder must be in ventilated cover, the valve is directed towards the rear door, and the cylinder itself is secured with straps. The maximum volume is 27 l (for example, for domestic gas). However, according to traffic regulations, transportation of gas in a passenger car prohibited — this requires a special permit and a “Dangerous Goods” sign.
What is the maximum tire size that can be carried in the trunk?
In the trunk X-Trail T31 fits a wheel with a diameter of up to 29 inches (for example, 235/65 R17) provided that it lies flat. For larger tires (such as 31-33 inches for SUVs), you will have to remove the rear row of seats or use a roof rack. Please note that the weight of one wheel with disc should not exceed 25 kg.
Why does water appear in the trunk after rain?
Most likely reasons:
- Clogged drain holes in the rear arches (clean with wire or compressed air).
- Damaged rear door seal (check for cracks or deformation).
- The hatch is leaking (if installed) - the seal needs to be adjusted or replaced.
To fix the problem, dry the carpet and trim, then treat the seals with silicone grease.
Is it possible to sleep in the trunk? X-Trail T31?
With the seats folded, the trunk length is ~180 cm, which is enough for a person up to 170 cm tall. However, there are nuances:
- The height in the foot area is reduced due to the wheel arches.
- The floor is not perfectly level (there are ridges and depressions).
- Ventilation is poor - condensation may accumulate.
For a comfortable sleep you will need travel mat 5–10 cm thick and a sleeping bag. It is also recommended to open the windows slightly for air circulation.
How to protect the trunk from scratches when transporting a dog?
Optimal solutions:
- Rubber mat with edges (for example, WeatherTech).
- Mesh divider between the trunk and the interior (art.
B4540-1M000). - Cover for the second row seats (if the dog is large and can scratch the upholstery).
Avoid using cardboard backings - they quickly get wet and lose their shape. For long-haired breeds, additionally use vacuum cleaner with wet cleaning function for cleaning the trunk after trips.