Nissan X-Trail second generation (index T32) after restyling in 2017, it became one of the most popular crossovers on the Russian market. But what exactly has changed in comparison with the pre-restyling version? Is it worth overpaying for the updated model or is it better to save on the pre-2017 version?

In this article we will analyze in detail all the changes in appearance, interior and technical parts, compare configurations and prices, and also analyze the typical problems of a restyled car. X-Trail T32. You will find out which motors have become more reliable and which ones, on the contrary, require increased attention, and receive a checklist to check before purchasing.

External changes: what distinguishes restyling from pre-restyling

Major visual update Nissan X-Trail T32 after restyling it touched the front part. Designers have completely redesigned optics, making the headlights more aggressive and technologically advanced. Now they are equipped bi-xenon lenses with adaptive light (in top versions) and LED running lights, which have become standard equipment even in basic trim levels.

The shape has also changed radiator grilles — it became wider and received chrome inserts, which gave the crossover a more premium look. The bumper now has more pronounced air intakes and integrated fog lights with chrome trim. At the rear, changes are minimal: updated taillights with a different LED pattern and a slightly redesigned bumper.

  • 🔹 Front optics: bi-xenon (in the top) or halogen with LED daytime running lights, adaptive light
  • 🔹 Radiator grille: chrome inserts, increased area
  • 🔹 Bumpers: new air intakes, chrome on foglights
  • 🔹 Rear: updated LED lights, slightly modified bumper

Interestingly, the rims in the restyled version have become an inch larger in the basic trim levels: now even in the version SE 17-inch wheels are installed instead of 16-inch ones. And in the top TEKNA exclusive 19-inch wheels with a new design appeared.

📊 Which element of the X-Trail T32 restyling do you like best?
  • New headlights
  • Chrome grille
  • 19-inch wheels
  • LED rear lights

Salon: new materials, multimedia and ergonomics

Inside Nissan X-Trail after restyling, the changes turned out to be more significant than on the outside. The main innovation is a completely updated multimedia system with a 7-inch diagonal touch screen (8 inches in the top). Now she supports Apple CarPlay And Android Auto, which is what the owners of the pre-restyle versions lacked.

Finishing materials have become of higher quality: soft plastic on the dashboard, stitched leather inserts on the steering wheel and gearshift lever (in versions SV and above), as well as improved sound insulation. The ergonomics of the steering wheel have been redesigned - now the multimedia and cruise control buttons are located more logically.

Salon element Dorestyle (until 2017) Restyling (2017+)
Multimedia 5-7" screen, no CarPlay/Android Auto 7-8" screen, CarPlay/Android Auto support
Steering wheel Plastic, simple finish Leather + firmware, redesigned buttons
Torpedo Hard plastic Soft plastic with stitching
Noise insulation Average Improved (additional layers)

Please note seats: in the restyled version they received a new shape with improved lateral support and higher quality upholstery. The top-end trim levels now feature ventilation for the front seats, as well as electric lumbar support adjustment.

⚠️ Attention: In some batches of restyled X-Trail 2017-2018 There were problems with the firmware peeling off on the steering wheel. Before purchasing, check the condition of the steering wheel - this may be a sign of poor quality assembly.

Technical changes: engines, transmissions, suspension

The most important technical updates in the restyled Nissan X-Trail T32 touched engine lines And transmissions. Gasoline engine QR25DE (2.5 l) received new ECU firmware, which made it possible to slightly reduce fuel consumption (by 0.3-0.5 l/100 km) without loss of power. But the diesel one R9M (1.6 l) began to meet the standard Euro 6, but at the same time lost about 10 hp. due to changes in the exhaust system.

Gearboxes have also undergone changes:

  • 🔧 CVT JF017E: updated software, smoother shifts, reduced rubber effect
  • 🔧 Manual transmission: paired with a diesel engine now comes with a 6-speed gearbox instead of a 5-speed
  • 🔧 Four-wheel drive: system ALL MODE 4x4-i received a new torque distribution algorithm

The suspension design remains the same, but engineers have reworked the settings of the shock absorbers and springs. As a result, the crossover became softer on small bumps, but lost a little in handling at high speeds. Also in the restyled version there are new driving modes: ECO, SPORT And SNOW (in all-wheel drive versions).

Which X-Trail T32 engines are the most reliable?

According to statistics from service centers, gasoline is considered the most reliable QR25DE (2.5 l) paired with a CVT. Diesel R9M (1.6 l) requires more frequent oil changes (every 10,000 km) and is sensitive to fuel quality. Hybrid version with motor MR20DD (2.0 l) shows good reliability, but its repair is more expensive due to the complexity of the system.

Comparison of trim levels: what was added in restyling

After restyling Nissan revised configurations for the Russian market. Basic version SE has become richer: it now includes LED running lights, climate control (previously there was only air conditioning), as well as a hill descent assistance system (Hill Descent Control). Version SV received a leather steering wheel, rear view camera and parking sensors.

The most significant changes affected the top-end configuration TEKNA:

  • 🚗 Adaptive cruise control with lane keeping function
  • 🚗 Traffic Sign Recognition System
  • 🚗 360 degree camera (previously there was only the back)
  • 🚗 Heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats

At the same time, prices for restyled versions have increased by an average of 100-150 thousand rubles compared to the pre-restyled version. But if you compare the equipment, the difference in price is often justified - many options that were previously available only for an additional fee are now included in the basic trim levels.

Condition of the variator (slipping, jerking)

Multimedia operation (CarPlay/Android Auto)

Integrity of the firmware on the steering wheel and seats

Functioning of cameras and parking sensors

Diesel oil change interval (if applicable)-->

Weaknesses and typical problems of the restyled X-Trail T32

Despite the improvements, the restyled X-Trail T32 I inherited some “diseases” from the pre-restayling version and acquired new ones. The main problems are related to:

  • ⚠️ CVT JF017E: When driving over 100,000 km, vibration and jerking may appear. Solved by changing the oil (only original NS-3!) or firmware update.
  • ⚠️ Diesel R9M: sensitive to fuel quality, the particulate filter often gets clogged (DPF). It is recommended to drive at high speeds every 500 km for self-cleaning.
  • ⚠️ Electronics: In the first batches of restyling (2017), there were glitches in the multimedia system and cameras. The problem is solved by flashing it.
  • ⚠️ Suspension: Wheel bearings and stabilizer bushings wear out by 80,000-100,000 km.

Deserves special attention hybrid version with motor MR20DD. Its main problem is the expensive battery pack, which may require replacement after 150,000 km (cost from 200,000 rubles). However, hybrid X-Trail demonstrates excellent reliability in the urban cycle and minimal fuel consumption (5.5-6.5 l/100 km).

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a restyled X-Trail T32 with diesel R9M Be sure to check your oil change history. This engine needs oil 5W-30 with permission RN0720 and replacements every 10,000 km. The use of other oils leads to premature wear of the turbine.

Is it worth buying the restyled X-Trail T32 in 2026?

Restyled Nissan X-Trail T32 (2017-2020) remains a current choice in the secondary market due to its balanced characteristics, reliability and rich equipment. However, before purchasing, you should weigh the pros and cons:

Arguments FOR purchasing:

  • ✅ Modern multimedia with CarPlay/Android Auto
  • ✅ Improved sound insulation and interior materials
  • ✅ More reliable variator (compared to pre-restayl)
  • ✅ Rich equipment even in basic configurations

Arguments AGAINST:

  • ❌ High cost of ownership of diesel and hybrid versions
  • ❌ Problems with the variator when driving over 150,000 km
  • ❌ Expensive original spare parts (especially for a hybrid)

If you are looking for a reliable family crossover with good cross-country ability and comfort, then the restyled X-Trail T32 with gasoline engine 2.5 and a CVT - one of the best options in its class. But the diesel version should be considered only subject to regular maintenance and the use of high-quality fuel.

💡

The optimal choice is the restyled X-Trail T32 2018-2019. in SV or TEKNA configuration with a 2.5 liter gasoline engine. These cars have already passed the period of “childhood illnesses”, but have not yet had time to accumulate critical mileage.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the restyled Nissan X-Trail T32

Which X-Trail T32 engine is the most reliable and economical?

Gasoline is considered the most reliable QR25DE (2.5 l, 171 hp). It is fuel-efficient, has a simple design and a service life of 300,000+ km with proper maintenance. The leader in terms of efficiency is the hybrid version with a motor MR20DD (2.0 l), which consumes 5.5-6.5 l/100 km in the city. Diesel R9M (1.6 l) is economical (4.5-5.5 l/100 km), but requires strict adherence to maintenance regulations.

How much does it cost to service the restyled X-Trail T32?

The average cost of scheduled maintenance (oil, filter) for the gasoline version is 8,000-12,000 rubles. For a diesel engine - 12,000-18,000 rubles due to more frequent oil and filter changes. The variator requires an oil change every 60,000 km (cost 6,000-10,000 rubles). The hybrid version is more expensive: replacing the battery pack can cost 200,000+ rubles after 150,000 km.

Which version of the X-Trail T32 restyling is the most optimal?

The best price/equipment ratio for the configuration SV. It includes a leather steering wheel, a rearview camera, parking sensors, climate control and LED headlights. Version TEKNA offers more options (adaptive cruise, 360 camera), but its price on the secondary market is often inflated. Basic SE suitable for those who want to save money, but it lacks many useful features.

Why is the restyled X-Trail T32 better than the pre-restyled one?

The main improvements of the restyling:

  • Modern multimedia with CarPlay/Android Auto
  • The best interior materials and sound insulation
  • More reliable CVT with updated firmware
  • LED running lights and bi-xenon at the top
  • New safety systems (adaptive cruise, sign recognition)

Pre-style versions are cheaper, but inferior in equipment and comfort.

What are the most expensive parts to replace for the X-Trail T32?

Top 5 most expensive components to replace:

  1. Hybrid battery pack — 200,000-250,000 rub.
  2. CVT JF017E (overhaul) — 150,000-200,000 rub.
  3. Diesel turbine R9M — 80,000-120,000 rub.
  4. Instrument panel (in case of failure) — 50,000-70,000 rub.
  5. System ALL MODE 4x4-i (repair of transfer case) — 60,000-100,000 rub.

To save money, it is recommended to buy original spare parts from official dealers during promotions or look for high-quality analogues (for example, ZF for variator).