Nissan X-Trail T31 restyling: what has changed in the updated version of the crossover?

Crossover Nissan X-Trail second generation (index T31) has become a real legend on the Russian market. Released in 2007, it quickly gained popularity due to its reliability, spacious interior and good cross-country ability. However, by 2010, the model began to become obsolete, and the manufacturer decided on a deep restyling. Updated X-Trail T31 received not only a fresh design, but also a number of technical improvements that extended the life of the model for several more years.

Restyled version T31 (sometimes erroneously called the “2011 restyling”) was introduced at the end of 2010, and went on sale at the beginning of 2011. The changes affected almost all aspects: from the exterior and interior to the suspension and transmission. Engineers paid special attention to improving sound insulation, comfort and safety. In this article we will analyze in detail what exactly has changed in Nissan X-Trail T31 after restyling, we will compare it with the pre-reform version and highlight the key pros and cons of the updated model.

External changes: what has changed in the design?

The most noticeable transformations affected the front of the crossover. Designers have completely redesigned front bumper, making it more aggressive and modern. Now it has large air intakes with chrome inserts, as well as integrated fog lights with clear glass (previously they were yellow). The radiator grille became wider and acquired a three-dimensional structure, which visually made the car more massive.

The headlights have also undergone changes: their shape remains the same, but the internal filling has been completely redesigned. They were now equipped bi-xenon lamps (in top trim levels) or halogen with improved light output. The taillights received new graphics and LED elements, which made the car more modern compared to its competitors. In addition, new designs have appeared alloy wheels - from 16 to 18 inches depending on the configuration.

• 🔹 Front bumper — more voluminous, with chrome accents and integrated PTF
• 🔹 Radiator grille — wider, with a 3D effect and a new pattern
• 🔹 Headlights — bi-xenon in the top, improved halogen in the base, new internal optics
• 🔹 Tail lights — LED elements, modified graphics
• 🔹 Wheels — new designs, sizes from R16 to R18

The color palette has also been expanded: in addition to classic shades, new body colors have appeared, such as "Titanium gray" And "Deep Blue Metallic". However, the dimensions of the car remained the same: 4630×1785×1685 mm (length/width/height), which maintained good maneuverability in the city with sufficient capacity.

Interior: comfort and ergonomics after update

Inside X-Trail T31 after restyling it began to look much more modern. The main change concerned dashboard: Now it has a white backlight instead of orange, and the speedometer and tachometer scales have become clearer. The center console has been completely redesigned with a new multimedia complex with support Bluetooth, USB And Aux-in, as well as an improved climate control system.

The finishing materials have become of higher quality: the plastic is now soft to the touch, and the seams and panel joints are made more accurately. Appeared in top versions leather seats with electric drive and heating, as well as a new steering wheel with integrated audio control buttons. Ergonomics have been improved with redesigned armrests and more convenient placement of controls.

• 🚗 Dashboard — white backlight, clear scales, improved readability
• 🎛️ Center console — new multimedia system with Bluetooth and USB
• 🪑 Seats — leather trim in the top, improved lateral support
• 🔄 Climate control — more precise adjustment of temperature and air distribution

Particular attention was paid to sound insulation: additional layers of sound-proofing materials were added in the doors, wheel arches and engine compartment. This made the cabin quieter at high speeds, which was especially appreciated by owners who often drive on the highway. The trunk volume remains the same - 410 liters in standard mode and up to 1773 liters with the rear seats folded, but now it has become more convenient to use thanks to the new floor shape and additional fastenings.

Technical specifications: engines and transmission

Under the hood Nissan X-Trail T31 after restyling, the changes were minimal but important. Base petrol engine 2.0 MR20DE (141 hp) remained the same, but its tuning was modified for better performance at low revs. More powerful 2.5 QR25DE (169 hp) received a new intake system, which slightly improved acceleration dynamics. Diesel 2.0 M9R (150 hp) remained unchanged, but now complied with more stringent environmental standards Euro 5.

The most noticeable update was transmission. A 6-speed manual transmission (previously 5-speed) became standard on all versions, and CVT Xtronic Got new firmware for smoother operation. Four-wheel drive All Mode 4×4-i remained unchanged, but its algorithms were modified for better distribution of torque between the axles. This is especially noticeable on slippery surfaces and off-road conditions.

Engine	Volume	Power	Torque	Transmission
MR20DE (gasoline)	2.0 l	141 hp	196 Nm	Manual transmission-6 / CVT
QR25DE (gasoline)	2.5 l	169 hp	226 Nm	Manual transmission-6 / CVT
M9R (diesel)	2.0 l	150 hp	320 Nm	Manual transmission-6

Important: In the restyled versions with a variator, the problem with oil overheating, which was often encountered in pre-reform models, was eliminated. Now the cooling system received an additional radiator, which increased the resource of the box.

The suspension remains the same (McPherson front and multi-lever rear), but its settings have been revised. Now the crossover has become softer on bumps, but at the same time retains good handling. The steering received a new power steering with clearer feedback, which was especially appreciated by drivers who prefer an active driving style.

Comparison before and after restyling: which is better?

To understand how significant the changes were, let’s compare the key parameters of the pre-reform and restyled versions Nissan X-Trail T31.

• 🔧 Appearance — restyling looks more modern thanks to new headlights, boot and grille. The pre-reform version looks simpler.
• 🚗 Interior — after the update, the interior became quieter, more comfortable and more technologically advanced (white lighting, new multimedia complex).
• ⚙️ Technical part — 6-speed manual transmission instead of 5-speed, modified CVT, improved sound insulation.
• 💰 Cost of ownership - restyled versions are usually more expensive on the secondary market, but they are easier to sell due to more modern equipment.

However, there are also disadvantages. For example, some owners note that plastic in the restyling salon Over time, it begins to creak more than in pre-reform versions. Also, after 2011, cars with a CVT became more common, which, despite the improvements, still requires more careful treatment than a manual transmission.

What competitor models should you consider instead of the X-Trail T31 facelift?

If you are not satisfied with the X-Trail T31, please note:

- Toyota RAV4 (XA30) - more reliable, but less spacious;

- Honda CR-V (RD5-RD7) - more comfortable, but more expensive to maintain;

- Mitsubishi Outlander (XL) - similar cross-country ability, but weaker in dynamics;

- Subaru Forester (SH) - all-wheel drive is better, but the interior is cramped.

If you are choosing between the pre-reform and restyled version, focus on your priorities:

- For budget buyer The version before 2010 is suitable - it is cheaper and not inferior in reliability.

- If important comfort and modern equipment, take the restyling - it is quieter, more technologically advanced and more pleasant to drive.

Typical problems and weaknesses of the restyled version

Despite the improvements, Nissan X-Trail T31 After restyling, he retained some “childhood diseases” and also acquired new ones. Here's what you should pay attention to when purchasing:

• ⚠️ CVT - even after modifications, it requires regular oil changes (every 60,000 km). If maintenance is not done in a timely manner, jerking and slipping begin.
• ⚠️ Suspension - stabilizer struts and bushings wear out 80,000–100,000 km. Shock absorbers also leak frequently.
• ⚠️ Electrics — problems with the power window control unit and the throttle position sensor.
• ⚠️ Body — rust can appear on arches, sills and bumper mounting points (especially if the car was driven on salt).

Diesel versions (M9R) suffer from problems with the turbine And particulate filter, which may fail after 150,000 km. Gasoline engines are more reliable, but QR25DE sometimes “eats” butter (up to 1 l per 1000 km) - this is considered normal for this engine.

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a restyled X-Trail T31, be sure to check the service history of the CVT. If the oil has not been changed for a long time 90,000 km, be prepared for expensive repairs.

Among the advantages - ease of repair (spare parts are cheap and widespread) and good maneuverability thanks to all-wheel drive. If you take care of the car and undergo maintenance on time, it will pass easily 300,000+ km without serious investments.

Options and prices on the secondary market

On the Russian market Nissan X-Trail T31 restyling is presented in several trim levels, which differ in equipment and price. The most common versions:

• 🔘 Comfort — basic equipment with air conditioning, 4 airbags, steel wheels and fabric trim.
• 🔘 Elegance — climate control, leather steering wheel, alloy wheels and fog lights are added.
• 🔘 Tekna - top version with leather seats, electric front seats, rear view camera and parking assistance system.
• 🔘 4WD Premium — all-wheel drive version with CVT, extended safety package and improved finishing.

Secondary market prices (as of 2026) vary depending on year, mileage and condition:

Year of manufacture	Mileage	Price (RUB)	Notes
2011–2012	up to 100,000 km	900 000 – 1 200 000	Clean copies with history
2011–2012	100,000 – 150,000 km	700 000 – 900 000	May require investment in suspension
2013–2014	up to 150,000 km	1 000 000 – 1 300 000	Latest years of production, better equipment

When choosing, pay attention to equipped with a variator — such cars are usually more expensive, but they are easier to sell. If you care off-road potential, look for versions with a manual transmission and all-wheel drive. Diesel versions are cheaper than gasoline ones, but their maintenance is more expensive due to the turbine and particulate filter.

Owner reviews: pros and cons

To form an objective opinion about Nissan X-Trail T31 restyling, we analyzed owner reviews from forums and car portals. Here are the pros and cons they highlight most often:

Pros:

• ✅ Spacious interior and large trunk - ideal for a family.
• ✅ Reliable gasoline engines (especially MR20DE).
• ✅ Good cross-country ability thanks to all-wheel drive.
• ✅ Inexpensive maintenance and availability of spare parts.
• ✅ Improved sound insulation compared to the pre-reform version.

Cons:

• ❌ The variator requires careful treatment and regular maintenance.
• ❌ Weak dynamics with the 2.0 engine (141 hp) when fully loaded.
• ❌ Plastic creaks in the interior after 3-4 years of operation.
• ❌ The diesel version is sensitive to fuel quality.

Many owners note that X-Trail T31 restyling is "golden mean" between price, reliability and comfort. The car is suitable for both the city and light off-road use, and its repairs are not expensive. The main thing is to monitor the variator and not skimp on maintenance.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions

How to distinguish the restyled X-Trail T31 from the pre-reform one?

Main external differences:

• New radiator grille with a 3D effect (the pre-reform one was flat).
• Redesigned front bumper with chrome inserts.
• Bi-xenon headlights in top trim levels (previously there were only halogen ones).
• LED taillights with modified graphics.
• New wheel designs.

Inside, the restyling features white instrument lighting (previously orange) and a new multimedia system.

Which engine is better to choose for the X-Trail T31 restyling?

The choice depends on your priorities:

• 2.0 MR20DE (141 hp) - the most reliable and economical, but weak for a full load.
• 2.5 QR25DE (169 hp) — the optimal option in terms of power and reliability, but it “eats” oil.
• 2.0 M9R (diesel, 150 hp) — economical and high-torque, but expensive to repair (turbine, particulate filter).

For most buyers the best choice would be QR25DE with a manual transmission - it provides sufficient dynamics and rarely breaks down with proper maintenance.

How long does the variator last on the X-Trail T31 restyling?

CVT resource Jatco JF011E on X-Trail T31 amounts to 150,000–200,000 km subject to the following conditions:

• Oil change every 60,000 km (original NS-2 or NS-3).
• Use only high-quality oil (not cheap analogues).
• Avoiding sudden starts and towing heavy trailers.
• Regularly check the oil level (underfilling leads to overheating).

If the CVT begins to jerk or slip, this is a sign of wear and requires diagnostics and possibly replacement of the belt and cones.

What oils are recommended for X-Trail T31 engines?

The manufacturer recommends the following oils:

• Gasoline engines (MR20DE, QR25DE): 5W-30 or 5W-40 according to standard API SM/SN (For example, Nissan Strong Save X 5W-30).
• Diesel engine (M9R): 5W-30 or 0W-30 according to standard ACEA C4 (For example, Total Quartz Ineo ECS 5W-30).

Oil volume to change:

• MR20DE — 4.3 l.
• QR25DE — 4.6 l.
• M9R — 5.4 l.

Is it worth buying the X-Trail T31 facelift in 2026?

Yes, if:

• You need a spacious and reliable crossover at a reasonable price.
• Are you ready to keep an eye on the CVT (or choose a manual).
• Your budget is up to 1,200,000 rubles.

No if:

• Are you looking for a car with modern safety systems (there are no ESP in basic versions).
• The dynamics of acceleration are important (2.0 is too weak, 2.5 “eats” oil).
• You are not ready for possible investments in suspension after 150,000 km.

Overall, X-Trail T31 restyling is an excellent choice for pragmatic buyers who value reliability and space.