Crossover Nissan X-Trail T31 (2007-2013) remains a popular choice among car enthusiasts due to its reliability and versatility. But one of the key questions when buying is trunk size, which directly affects comfort in everyday use and long trips. Owners and potential buyers are often interested in how much stuff will fit in the trunk with the seats folded down? What volume in liters is declared by the manufacturer, and does it correspond to reality? In this article we will look at all the nuances, including unique Nissan engineering solutions that allow you to transform the trunk space in non-standard ways.
Model T31 was produced in different configurations, and not only options, but also some geometric parameters of the luggage compartment depended on this. We will analyze official data, the results of independent measurements and reviews from owners to give the most objective picture possible. We’ll also share life hacks on how to rationally use every centimeter of space - from the choice of organizers to the unobvious possibilities of folding seats.
Official data: trunk volume according to passport
According to technical documentation Nissan, trunk X-Trail T31 in the standard configuration (without folded seats) has a volume 410 liters. This figure is relevant for most modifications, including basic and top-end versions. However, there are nuances:
- 🔹 With rear seats: 410 l - standard for crossover class SUV-C.
- 🔹 With the second row folded: to 1773 l — this is the maximum volume that allows you to transport oversized cargo.
- 🔹 With front passenger seat: if you fold it (in some trim levels), you can increase the length of the cargo compartment to 2.5 meters.
It is important to understand that the actual volume may differ by 5-10% depending on:
- 🔧 Availability full size spare tire (reduces space by ~30 l).
- 🔧 Configurations systems All Mode 4x4-i (in all-wheel drive versions it may take up additional space under the floor).
- 🔧Options "panoramic roof" (the hatch moves the ceiling down, reducing the height of the trunk by 2-3 cm).
⚠️ Attention: In some European versions X-Trail T31 The trunk volume was indicated as 400 liters instead of 410 liters due to differences in measurement methods. This is not a bug - just a different standard (VDA instead of SAE).
Real measurements: what do the owners say?
On forums and in reviews, owners often share their measurements, which sometimes differ from official data. For example:
- 📏 Trunk depth (from rear door to seatbacks): 85-90 cm - this is enough for a stroller, a bicycle wheel or two large suitcases.
- 📏 Width between wheel arches: 105 cm — a standard European pallet (120x80 cm) fits only diagonally.
- 📏 Height from floor to ceiling: 75-80 cm (depending on the presence of a hatch).
Interesting fact: if you fold the second row of seats in proportion 60:40, then with one seat raised, there remains a niche for transporting long items (for example, skis up to 180 cm). At the same time, the trunk volume is reduced to ~1200 liters, but the ability to carry 1-2 passengers remains.
- For everyday purchases only
- For transportation of large cargo (furniture, equipment)
- For travel (suitcases, tents)
- For sports equipment (bicycles, skis)
| Parameter | Value (cm) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Length (to rear seat backs) | 85-90 | Depends on the position of the rear seats (tilt adjustment) |
| Length (with second row folded) | 170-180 | Maximum - up to the front seats |
| Width (between arches) | 105 | The bottleneck is above the wheels |
| Width (at thresholds) | 140 | Allows placement of wide loads (such as a refrigerator) |
| Height (to shelf) | 75-80 | With hatch - up to 75 cm, without hatch - up to 80 cm |
Comparison with competitors: who is more practical?
To evaluate the trunk X-Trail T31 Objectively, let's compare it with the main competitors of the same generation (2007-2013):
- 🚙 Toyota RAV4 (XA30): 410 l / 1750 l - almost identical, but RAV4 smoother floor.
- 🚙 Honda CR-V (RD5-RD7): 589 l / 1773 l - wins in basic volume, but loses in height.
- 🚙 Mitsubishi Outlander (CU2W): 591 l / 1690 l - wider, but shorter with the seats folded.
- 🚙 Subaru Forester (SH): 450 l / 1610 l - less in volume, but higher ceiling.
Conclusion: X-Trail T31 not a volume leader, but offers a balanced solution. Its key advantage is flexible interior transformation system, including:
- 🔄 Folding seats in proportion 60:40 (competitors often have only 50:50).
- 🔄 Ability to fold front passenger seat (rare in the class).
- 🔄 Double bottom in some trim levels (hidden compartment under the floor).
⚠️ Attention: In versions with diesel engine 2.0 dCi the trunk may be 10-15 liters smaller due to the location of the fuel tank and system AdBlue (if installed).
How to increase usable space: life hacks from owners
Experienced owners X-Trail T31 share non-obvious ways to optimize the trunk:
- Removable shelf. Kits with a hatch often come with a removable shelf that can be removed to increase the height by 10-15 cm. Store it in the garage when not in use.
- Organizers under the floor. In the niche under the trunk floor you can place:
- 🧰 Tool kit.
- 🚗 Spare lamps and fuses.
- 🧴 Auto chemicals (anti-freeze, oil).
Another secret: if you remove the plastic covers on the rear wheel arches, you can win extra 3-5 cm in width (useful for carrying wide loads). The main thing is not to damage the wiring of the parking sensors (if installed).
Fold the rear seats in the desired proportion (60:40 or completely)
Check the fastenings for securing the load
Remove the removable shelf (if you need to transport a high load)
Place heavy items closer to the seat backs (for even loading)
Secure the load with straps or a net -->
What doesn't fit in the trunk: limitations and solutions
Despite its versatility, there are loads with which X-Trail T31 problems arise:
- 🚴 Bicycles: Without removing the wheels, only 1 bicycle fits (folded). For two you need a roof rack or a tow bar.
- 🛏️ Furniture: cabinets wider than 105 cm will not fit between the arches. The solution is collapsible furniture or a roof rack.
- ⛷️ Skis: up to 180 cm fit only with one second row seat folded.
- 📦 Construction materials: plasterboard (120x250 cm) will not fit even with folded seats - you need a trailer.
For such cases, owners recommend:
- 🔧 Trunk extension: for example, from Thule or Hapro, which is attached to the tow bar.
- 🔧 Roof rack: roof load capacity X-Trail T31 - up to 75 kg (taking into account the weight of the trunk).
- 🔧 Trailer: model with brakes allows you to transport up to 1.5 tons (maximum towed load weight for X-Trail T31).
How to transport a refrigerator in X-Trail T31?
1. Fold down both rear seats (volume ~1700 l).
2. Remove the removable shelf (if any).
3. A refrigerator of standard sizes (60x60x160 cm) fits diagonally, but you will have to lift the front part (use a stand to avoid damaging the plastic).
4. Secure the refrigerator with straps to the mounts in the trunk.
5. Close the back door carefully - heavy weight may cause the hinges to sag.
Trunk maintenance and care
trunk X-Trail T31 requires attention, especially if you often transport dirty or heavy loads. Here are the key points:
- 🧹 Cleaning: plastic panels can be washed with water and car shampoo, but avoid abrasives - they scratch the surface.
- 🛠️ Lubrication: Rear door hinges and locks need lubrication (e.g. WD-40) every 10,000 km.
- 🔧 Checking the fasteners: Straps and hooks for securing loads become loose over time - tighten them once a year.
- 🚗 Corrosion protection: Dirt accumulates under the plastic covers on the arches - wash them once a season.
Pay special attention rear door seal. Over time, it tans and lets water through, which leads to:
- 💧 The smell of dampness in the cabin.
- 🔋 Corrosion of spare wheel mounts.
- ⚡ Problems with electrical wiring (if water gets on the blocks under the floor).
If there is a squeak in the trunk, check the plastic clips securing the trim. They often break when overloaded. Replace them with metal ones (article: Nissan 80510-4M000).
Upgrading the trunk: what can be improved?
Standard trunk X-Trail T31 functional, but some owners prefer to modernize it. Popular improvements:
- Installing a tool box. You can install a metal box with a lock in a niche under the floor (for example, from Mannol or Kraftmann).
- LED backlight. The standard lamp is dim - many people install additional 12V LED strips.
- Rubber mat. The factory mat is thin - replace it with a rubber one from WeatherTech (item:
WT400151). - Grid separator. Useful for securing small loads (e.g. Thule or Hapro).
For extreme lovers, there is an option to install retractable platform (as in pickups), but this requires redoing the floor and approval from the traffic police. A simpler option is folding table for picnics (attached to the back door).
The most useful modification is the installation of additional cargo mounts. This allows you to securely fix even heavy objects and avoid their displacement during sudden braking.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions
How many things fit into the trunk of the X-Trail T31 for every day?
In the standard configuration (410 l) it fits:
- 🛒 4 large bags of groceries.
- 🧳 2 medium suitcases (up to 24 inches).
- 👶 Stroller + shopping bag.
- 🐕 Dog basket (size L).
If you fold one second row seat, you can add 1-2 more large bags.
Is it possible to sleep in the trunk of the X-Trail T31?
Theoretically yes, but with reservations:
- 🛌 With the seats folded, the length is ~170 cm - enough for a person up to 165 cm tall.
- 📏 Width ~105 cm - tight for two.
- ❄️ It’s cold in winter - additional thermal insulation is needed.
Better to use folding mattress (for example, from Decathlon) and a sleeping bag.
How to protect the trunk from scratches?
Effective ways:
- 🛡️ Rubber mat (preferably with sides).
- 🧵 Cordura cover (order from tailors).
- 🎨 Anti-gravel film for plastic panels.
- 🔧 Silicone door sills (article:
Nissan 80530-4M000).
What is the maximum load on the trunk?
According to the instruction manual:
- 🏋️ Static load: up to 200 kg (evenly distributed).
- 🏋️ Dynamic load: up to 100 kg (while moving).
- ⚠️ Excessive weight leads to sagging springs and damage to shock absorbers.
To transport heavy loads (such as bags of cement), use a trailer.
What should I do if the back door does not close after loading?
The problem is typical for X-Trail T31 when overloaded. Solutions:
- Redistribute the cargo closer to the front of the trunk.
- Check the door shock absorbers (part number:
Nissan 80850-4M000). - Lubricate the hinges with silicone grease.
- If the door has sagged, adjust its position (you need keys 10 and 12).