RAV4 Hybrid rival confirmed for Australia

Nissan has revealed the new X-Trail Hybrid, its answer to the popular Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.The Nissan is expected to land in Aussie showrooms early next year.The hybrid technology – dubbed e-Power – ditches the 2.5-litre petrol engine in favour of 1.5-litre petrol engine and an electric motor.This model will work in the same way to the recently revealed Qashqai e-Power.In the Qashqai e-Power the petrol engine never drives the wheels. Instead, it is used as a generator to power the electric motors.This results in zippy acceleration off the mark and allows the brand to dump the CVT auto transmission. It also enables the engine to be shut down more often and for a longer period than other hybrids.The X-Trail also has the option to add a second motor – placed on the rear axle – for all-wheel-drive grip.The front electric motor provides 150kW and 330Nm and the rear makes 100kW and 195Nm.Fuel use hasn’t been confirmed but it’s expected to be in the low-5L/100km range, which is similar to the Toyota RAV4.There are plenty of luxury features including a 12.3-inch touch screen and a digital instrument display.In overseas versions its scores supple Nappa leather upholstery and a booming Bose stereo.Nissan is about to embark on a near complete line-up rebuild as it prepares to launch new versions of its Qashqai small SUV, X-Trail medium SUV, Pathfinder large SUV and the Z sports car in the next 12 months.The maker has also revealed its new Ariya fully-electric SUV. It is likely headed our way but Nissan hasn’t confirmed it yet for Australia. Via news.com.au — Australia’s leading news site https://www.news.com.au