Japanese brand Nissan For decades now it has been famous for its all-wheel drive vehicles that combine reliability, cross-country ability and comfort. In 2026 the model range SUVs and crossovers with 4x4 system from the company includes both compact city models and serious off-road frame SUVs. But how not to get lost in this diversity? This article will help you understand the current offers Nissan, their technical features and key differences.

From stylish Juke from its unusual design to the legendary Patrol, capable of overcoming any obstacles - each car in the line has its own unique features. We have analyzed all available models with all-wheel drive, compared them according to the main parameters and collected expert advice. Particular attention was paid to all-wheel drive systems ALL MODE 4x4-i And Intelligent 4WDwho make cars Nissan so versatile.

Compact crossovers with all-wheel drive: Juke And Kicks

Let's start with the most affordable options in the line Nissan. Compact crossovers are ideal for the city, but at the same time they can feel confident on light off-road conditions thanks to all-wheel drive systems. Their main advantages are efficiency, maneuverability and modern technology.

Nissan Juke - the most unusual representative of the line. Its futuristic design with round headlights and aggressive body lines immediately attracts attention. Under the hood of the model is a gasoline turbo engine. 1.0 DIG-T with a power of 117 hp, which is paired with a 6-speed manual or CVT. All-wheel drive system Intelligent 4WD automatically engages the rear axle when the front wheels slip. It does Juke An excellent choice for snowy winters and wet roads.

  • 🔹 Engine: 1.0 l, 117 hp, turbo
  • 🔹 Fuel consumption: 5.8-6.2 l/100 km
  • 🔹 Ground clearance: 180 mm
  • 🔹 Feature: system Torque Vectoring for better handling

Nissan Kicks — a more practical option with a spacious interior and a large trunk (432 l). In Russia, the model is offered with a naturally aspirated engine 1.6 (124 hp) and a variator. All-wheel drive is implemented here according to the scheme ALL MODE 4x4-i, which allows you to manually lock the center differential. This is useful when driving through mud or snow. An important plus - Kicks one of the most affordable all-wheel drive crossovers in the lineup.

📊Which compact Nissan crossover do you like best?
  • Juke
  • Kicks
  • None of the suggested ones
  • I haven't decided yet

Mid-size crossovers: Qashqai And X-Trail

These models occupy the golden mean between compactness and spaciousness. They are ideal for family trips, but still maintain good cross-country ability. Both models are built on a modular platform CMF-C, which provides them with excellent handling and comfort.

Nissan Qashqai is the brand’s bestseller, which in 2026 received an updated design and a hybrid power plant. The basic version is equipped with a gasoline engine 1.3 DIG-T (140 or 158 hp) with micro-hybrid system MHEV. Four-wheel drive Intelligent 4WD works automatically, distributing torque between the axles. Feature of the model - system ProPILOT, which helps keep the car in the lane and maintain distance.

Version Qashqai e-POWER deserves special attention. There is no traditional internal combustion engine - instead it is used electric motor with a power of 190 hp, which is powered by a small gasoline generator. This scheme ensures smooth acceleration and low fuel consumption (5.3 l/100 km). All-wheel drive in this version works according to the same scheme as in gasoline versions.

  • 🔹 Engines: 1.3 turbo (140/158 hp), e-POWER (190 hp)
  • 🔹 Gearboxes: CVT, 6-speed “robot” (for e-POWER)
  • 🔹 Ground clearance: 190 mm
  • 🔹 Feature: system e-4ORCE for better control on slippery surfaces

Nissan X-Trail - a larger and more spacious crossover that offers 7 seats in the cabin. In Russia, the model is available with a gasoline engine 2.5 (184 hp) and a variator. All-wheel drive system Intelligent 4WD has three modes: AUTO, LOCK (off-road) and 2WD (to save fuel). An important difference from Qashqai — the presence of a reduction gear, which makes X-Trail more passable.

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If you need maximum cross-country ability among mid-size crossovers Nissan, choose X-Trail with the regime LOCK and downshift. This will allow you to confidently overcome mud and snow drifts.

Premium crossovers: Murano And Ariya

For those who are looking for not only cross-country ability, but also luxury, Nissan offers premium models. They are distinguished by advanced security systems, high-quality finishing materials and powerful power units.

Nissan Murano - a flagship crossover with an elegant design and a spacious interior. The model has a V-shaped engine under the hood 3.5 V6 with a power of 249 hp, which is paired with a CVT. All-wheel drive system Intelligent AWD automatically distributes torque between axles depending on road conditions. Feature Murano - system Active Ride Control, which smoothes out road irregularities for maximum passenger comfort.

Nissan Ariya is an all-electric crossover that combines advanced technology and environmental friendliness. The model is offered in several modifications with power from 218 to 394 hp. (version e-4ORCE). The all-wheel drive system here is implemented using two electric motors - on the front and rear axles. This provides excellent dynamics (acceleration to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds in the top version) and high cross-country ability thanks to precise control of torque on each wheel.

Model Engine type Power, hp Consumption/power reserve Features
Murano Gasoline, 3.5 V6 249 9.2 l/100 km System Active Ride Control, leather interior
Ariya (basic) Electro 218 400 km (WLTP) System ProPILOT 2.0, wireless charging
Ariya e-4ORCE Electro 394 380 km (WLTP) Acceleration 0-100 km/h in 5.1 s, all-wheel drive
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Electric Ariya with the system e-4ORCE offers a unique combination of dynamics and cross-country ability thanks to precise control of each wheel. This makes it one of the most technologically advanced crossovers in the lineup. Nissan.

Frame SUVs: Pathfinder And Patrol

For true off-road fans Nissan offers frame SUVs with serious technical characteristics. These models are capable of negotiating difficult obstacles and towing heavy trailers.

Nissan Pathfinder - a full-size crossover, which in 2026 received an updated platform and a hybrid power plant. In Russia, the model is offered with a gasoline engine 3.5 V6 (284 hp) and a 9-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive system Intelligent 4WD has seven modes including Sand, Mud/Rut And Snow. The ground clearance is 210 mm, which allows you to confidently move over rough terrain.

Nissan Patrol is a legendary frame SUV, which is considered one of the most reliable in its class. In Russia, the model is equipped with a gasoline engine 5.6 V8 405 hp and a 7-speed automatic transmission. The all-wheel drive system here is permanent, with a center differential and reduction gear. Patrol is capable of towing up to 3.5 tons and fording depths of up to 700 mm, making it an ideal choice for extreme conditions.

  • 🔹 Engine Patrol: 5.6 V8, 405 hp
  • 🔹 Ground clearance: 273 mm
  • 🔹 Towing capacity: up to 3500 kg
  • 🔹 Feature: rear axle with differential lock
How is the all-wheel drive system different? Patrol from other models Nissan?

Unlike crossovers with all-wheel drive, Patrol It has permanent all-wheel drive with a center differential and the ability to lock. This ensures an even distribution of torque (50:50) between the axles and better off-road performance. In addition, the presence of a low-range gear and a locking rear differential allows you to overcome serious obstacles, such as deep mud or steep climbs.

All-wheel drive pickups: Navara And NP300

For those who need not only cross-country ability, but also carrying capacity, Nissan offers pickup trucks with a 4x4 system. These models are ideal for work and outdoor activities.

Nissan Navara - a modern pickup truck with a comfortable interior and powerful diesel engines. In Russia, the model is offered with a turbodiesel 2.3 dCi in two power options: 163 and 190 hp. All-wheel drive system ALL MODE 4x4 has modes 2H, 4H And 4L (downshift). Load capacity is up to 1 ton, and towing capacity is up to 3.5 tons. Feature Navara - five-link rear suspension, which provides excellent handling even when fully loaded.

Nissan NP300 — a more affordable version of the pickup truck, which is offered with a gasoline engine 2.4 (154 hp) or diesel 2.5 dCi (190 hp). The all-wheel drive system here is similar Navara, but with a simplified design. This makes the model more budget-friendly, but no less reliable. The ground clearance is 225 mm, which allows you to confidently move off-road.

Condition of the frame and side members for corrosion|Operation of the all-wheel drive system in 4L mode|Condition of the clutch (on mechanical versions)|Oil level in the transfer case and axles-->

Comparison of all-wheel drive systems in models Nissan

One of the key features of SUVs Nissan — a variety of all-wheel drive systems. Each of them has its own advantages and is designed for different operating conditions.

Intelligent 4WD - the most common system that is used in most crossovers (Qashqai, X-Trail, Murano). It automatically engages the rear axle when the front wheels slip and has several operating modes. The main advantage is simplicity and reliability.

ALL MODE 4x4-i - a more advanced system that offers manual locking of the center differential. It is installed on Kicks, Navara And NP300. The main advantage is the ability to forcefully activate all-wheel drive, which is useful on slippery surfaces or off-road conditions.

Intelligent AWD (Murano) And e-4ORCE (Ariya) - premium systems that provide maximum comfort and control. In the case of Ariya the system controls each wheel separately, making the crossover extremely maneuverable.

⚠️ Attention: when operating vehicles with the system Intelligent 4WD in conditions of deep snow or mud, it is recommended to first activate the mode LOCK (if available). This will avoid slipping and increase cross-country ability. However, do not forget that prolonged use of a locked differential on hard surfaces can lead to increased wear on the transmission.

How to choose the right one Nissan 4x4?

Choosing an all-wheel drive vehicle Nissan depends on your needs and budget. Here are some tips to help you decide:

If you need urban crossover with good maneuverability, pay attention to Juke or Kicks. They are economical, maneuverable and great for daily trips. Best suited for family trips Qashqai or X-Trail — they are more spacious and comfortable.

For those who are looking premium car with all-wheel drive, worth considering Murano or electric Ariya. These models offer the highest level of comfort and advanced technology. If you need maximum cross-country ability, then the best choice is Patrol or Pathfinder with their frame structure and serious technical characteristics.

Pickup trucks are ideal for work or active recreation Navara or NP300. They combine load-carrying capacity, maneuverability and reliability. When choosing, pay attention to the body type (double or single cab) and load capacity.

⚠️ Attention: when purchasing an all-wheel drive Nissan With mileage, be sure to check the condition of the transfer case and axles. This is especially true for frame models (Patrol, Navara), which could be used in difficult conditions. Also check whether the all-wheel drive system was serviced according to the regulations (oil change in the transfer case and axles every 60,000 km).

Frequently Asked Questions

What model Nissan 4x4 most economical?

The most economical model with all-wheel drive is Nissan Juke with engine 1.0 DIG-T. Its fuel consumption is about 5.8-6.2 l/100 km in the combined cycle. It is also worth paying attention to the hybrid version Qashqai e-POWER, which consumes about 5.3 l/100 km.

Is it possible to tow a trailer on Nissan Qashqai?

Yes, Qashqai has a towing capacity of up to 1.5 tons (depending on modification). However, for towing heavy trailers, it is better to choose X-Trail (up to 2 tons) or frame models (Patrol, Navara), which can tow up to 3.5 tons.

How is the system different? e-4ORCE in Ariya from traditional all-wheel drive?

System e-4ORCE uses two electric motors - on the front and rear axles, which are controlled independently. This allows precise distribution of torque not only between the axles, but also between the individual wheels. As a result Ariya has excellent handling on slippery surfaces and high acceleration dynamics.

Which Nissan 4x4 better for off-road?

For serious off-roading, the best choice would be Nissan Patrol thanks to the frame structure, permanent all-wheel drive, reduction gear and rear differential lock. Also performs well Pathfinder with its seven all-wheel drive modes. Among pickup trucks the leader is Navara with the system ALL MODE 4x4.

How much does it cost to service all-wheel drive models? Nissan?

The cost of servicing depends on the model and type of engine. For example, for Qashqai with gasoline engine 1.3 DIG-T The average cost of maintenance is about 15,000–20,000 rubles. For frame models (Patrol, Navara) maintenance is more expensive - from 25,000 to 40,000 rubles for maintenance, since an oil change in the transfer case and axles is required. Electric Ariya has minimal maintenance costs - about 10,000 rubles per year.