Thinking of buying a 2003 reg 2.2 x-trail,dci and would appreciate any comments from the towing fraternity as to the performance, quality, mpg etc.-----road tax??
Many Thanks
Many Thanks
x trail
- Thread starter nkosibob
- Start date
Hi Rob...go for it...We have a 2003 dci sport..solo performance is "sparkling".....towing ,once you're moving is very good..so is acceleration even with the van on..ours pulls happily in 6th gear down the motorway with a swift on the back..van weighs just over a ton...and returns 34.7mpg towing..thats measured over a 300 mile trip...brimming tank to brimming tank..on a mixture of A roads and motorway..60% motorway....don't know what it does locally ..but its 30 something I would think...certainly low 30's..we've had the car from new..and the only thing wrong so far..touch wood ..is a faulty flasher unit ,replaced under warranty...The centre speedo's a bit annoying,but you sort of get used to it..and I would like more cubby hole storage...some of the cubby holes don't seem very practical..like the one that looks as tho it would fit cd's ,,but doesn't.....I'm hanging on to my X trail..its the longest ive kept a car without changing for a very long time....Main dealer servicing seems reasonable as well....certainly a lot cheaper by a big margin than a landrover freelander..
Regards william
Regards william
Hi Rob
we also have the 2.2 dCI Sport (May 2004). Great vehicle - tows our Bailey Senator Indiana (loaded to 1450kg) fine. We get 40+ mpg solo and 26-27 mpg towing. Check which model you are buying, as Nissan uprated the diesel from 112 bhp Di to 136 bhp dCI(around Oct 2003, I think). 136 bhp model has vertical cup holders in dashboard and circular reflectors on rear bumper, earlier model had "sloping" can holders, and rectangular reflectors on rear bumper. Had 2 recalls to replace intercooler and rusty fuel filler neck, otherwise bulletproof 40000 miles. Not sure what your budget is, but there is a new X-Trail coming out in Sept, so lots of deals on new/nearly new current models. Check bhp with who you buy from - I would shop around and find the more powerful 136 bhp dCI version, especially if you are towing 1300kg+.
Good luck !
Ann & John
we also have the 2.2 dCI Sport (May 2004). Great vehicle - tows our Bailey Senator Indiana (loaded to 1450kg) fine. We get 40+ mpg solo and 26-27 mpg towing. Check which model you are buying, as Nissan uprated the diesel from 112 bhp Di to 136 bhp dCI(around Oct 2003, I think). 136 bhp model has vertical cup holders in dashboard and circular reflectors on rear bumper, earlier model had "sloping" can holders, and rectangular reflectors on rear bumper. Had 2 recalls to replace intercooler and rusty fuel filler neck, otherwise bulletproof 40000 miles. Not sure what your budget is, but there is a new X-Trail coming out in Sept, so lots of deals on new/nearly new current models. Check bhp with who you buy from - I would shop around and find the more powerful 136 bhp dCI version, especially if you are towing 1300kg+.
Good luck !
Ann & John
hello
we bought a new import 2.2 dci adventura in may and have just covered 1800 mile on a trip to france towing our van which weighs 1350kgs, the caravan club told us this is 89% of the towing weight allowed so check your weights, the car towed great but used quite a bit of diesel approx 28mpg, if you are getting a tow bar fitted have a witter detachable as it stops you banging your shin when you are using the boot,
we bought a new import 2.2 dci adventura in may and have just covered 1800 mile on a trip to france towing our van which weighs 1350kgs, the caravan club told us this is 89% of the towing weight allowed so check your weights, the car towed great but used quite a bit of diesel approx 28mpg, if you are getting a tow bar fitted have a witter detachable as it stops you banging your shin when you are using the boot,
Hi Mike
we have a 2.2 dci Sport; this weighed 1640 kg on local weighbidge, so you probably have nearer to 82% match. Consumption will get better as engine beds in - see our earlier post.
Ann & John
we have a 2.2 dci Sport; this weighed 1640 kg on local weighbidge, so you probably have nearer to 82% match. Consumption will get better as engine beds in - see our earlier post.
Ann & John
- Mar 10, 2006
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The xtrail had a power increase from 2004 model year to 134 bhp, not 136 as many owners seem to think.
This was achieved by increasing the pump pressure, and increasing the intercooler size, a variable vane turbo was fitted, something else was done I think but cant remember what it was.
Torque was increased to around 231 pound feet.
Also other body improvements were made.
I would recommend this model.
Issues with the earlier models were mainly a rattly timing chain. And heavy a smoking exhaust.
From 2004 models up to the euro 4 when the range was renamed, issues are oil leaks from the intercooler, and turbo failure.
The latest models had a misfiring problem, which has been sorted by software mods; interestingly the Honda crv also had this issue. Due to the euro 4 compliance the economy is a couple of mpg less.
I get around 30mpg towing 1350kg and mid 30 solo. The best-recorded solo i have had is 42.2 mpg. But I never check it now its that good.
The trail is the best tow car I have ever had.
Ps can forum members check the correct bhp of their cars before posting often power ratings of ps (hp) are quoted as bhp.
This was achieved by increasing the pump pressure, and increasing the intercooler size, a variable vane turbo was fitted, something else was done I think but cant remember what it was.
Torque was increased to around 231 pound feet.
Also other body improvements were made.
I would recommend this model.
Issues with the earlier models were mainly a rattly timing chain. And heavy a smoking exhaust.
From 2004 models up to the euro 4 when the range was renamed, issues are oil leaks from the intercooler, and turbo failure.
The latest models had a misfiring problem, which has been sorted by software mods; interestingly the Honda crv also had this issue. Due to the euro 4 compliance the economy is a couple of mpg less.
I get around 30mpg towing 1350kg and mid 30 solo. The best-recorded solo i have had is 42.2 mpg. But I never check it now its that good.
The trail is the best tow car I have ever had.
Ps can forum members check the correct bhp of their cars before posting often power ratings of ps (hp) are quoted as bhp.
We are on the 3rd XT and I can't add anything to Ray's comments other than to say that now the misfire is a thing of the past the XT Columbia 2.2 diesel is a superb car and a joy to drive with or without the caravan.
i have had MAD springs fitted on the rear and this now gives a level outfit when towing
The XT is also excellent for disabled access
i have had MAD springs fitted on the rear and this now gives a level outfit when towing
The XT is also excellent for disabled access
I would agree with everything said above.
We have just returned from a 2200 mile trip to France, Germany & Switzerland (1500 miles towing) with our '04 2.2dCi Sport pulling a 1420kg van and it never missed a beat. It was absolutely rock solid even at 'French autoroute speeds'. 6th gear was used most of the time on the motorways/autoroutes, 5th very rarely and 4th only once when we got stuck behind a wagon on a fairly steep motorway incline and had to pull out into faster traffic to get past quickly.
We are on our 2nd X trail the 1st was a 2.0 petrol which was also a great car except for the mpg of the petrol version. The diesel is obviously far better. This is the only time I have changed to another car of the same model.
We have just returned from a 2200 mile trip to France, Germany & Switzerland (1500 miles towing) with our '04 2.2dCi Sport pulling a 1420kg van and it never missed a beat. It was absolutely rock solid even at 'French autoroute speeds'. 6th gear was used most of the time on the motorways/autoroutes, 5th very rarely and 4th only once when we got stuck behind a wagon on a fairly steep motorway incline and had to pull out into faster traffic to get past quickly.
We are on our 2nd X trail the 1st was a 2.0 petrol which was also a great car except for the mpg of the petrol version. The diesel is obviously far better. This is the only time I have changed to another car of the same model.
I have a 2006 Columbia 2.2 dci and am very pleased with it. I believe that the higher output engine was not introduced until 2004 and this one is well worth going for. Can't fault it.
Some owners I know feel that the 4 wheel drive is a bit of a novelty as the ST20 tyres, fitted as standard, are very tarmac bias.
Some owners I know feel that the 4 wheel drive is a bit of a novelty as the ST20 tyres, fitted as standard, are very tarmac bias.
That may be true but my XT pulled 1500kg of caravan off an icy pitch uphill with no wheelspin at all.
We live at the top (from one direction) of a very steep winding loose surfaced hill and its not unusual to have to stop in a passing place on the steepest part to allow a vehicle going in the opposite direction to pass.
The XT sets off on the very steep(1/4) part with no wheel spin at all on standard tyres
We live at the top (from one direction) of a very steep winding loose surfaced hill and its not unusual to have to stop in a passing place on the steepest part to allow a vehicle going in the opposite direction to pass.
The XT sets off on the very steep(1/4) part with no wheel spin at all on standard tyres
We also had to pull our 1420kg van off a fairly muddy pitch where it had been settling in for nearly 2 weeks, over the top of the levelling ramps on one side and up a slope that had the tow hitch touching the grass, this was achieved with no wheelspin. As I had been a bit unsure if we would make it off the pitch I had selected 'lock' mode on the 4WD, for the first time ever. The pitch was so slippery it was difficult to walk on in some areas and the kids went on their backsides on more than one occasion.
This was on a site where we had watched many outfits & motorhomes being towed off by the sites tele-handler (large off road forklift) after 3 days of torrential rain which saw many other people abandon their holidays.
I think the 4WD is more than adequate for the type of use most people will put it to.
This was on a site where we had watched many outfits & motorhomes being towed off by the sites tele-handler (large off road forklift) after 3 days of torrential rain which saw many other people abandon their holidays.
I think the 4WD is more than adequate for the type of use most people will put it to.
does anyone get a loud tapping noise from their xt diesel engines when cold, after it warmed up 4-5 mile it goes, bought the car new in may now done 4500 miles never noticed it when first bought, other than this the cars been excellent
mike
mike
I recently purchased an 06 plate 2.2 SE DCI X-Trail on the basis that the kerb weight is around 1640kg as per the tow car guide issued in recent magazines and forums. Towed our Europa 540 MTPLM 1500kg (but not fully loaded) with it for the first time this month. On the outgoing trip had an experience of snaking and also on the return journey whilst overtaking a truck, a bit scary! So am now concerned that the vehicle is not up to the job, saw one towing a twin axle Bailey Senator Wyoming on the site we stayed on in Cornwall which is heavier than our van. I am confident the loading was right but just wondered what others experiences were like or any advice?
Mike Yes it does that when cold especially if its been outside all night
Mark we have towed a similar weight van to yours with 3 different XTs over 7 years and have not snaked yet
Seat of the pants can tell when 60mph is exceeded and reducing speed restore calm !
Mark we have towed a similar weight van to yours with 3 different XTs over 7 years and have not snaked yet
Seat of the pants can tell when 60mph is exceeded and reducing speed restore calm !
Mike
We run a Nissan Tino with basically the same 2.2 diesel engine as the X Trail. It was purchased used and went back to the garage under warranty twice to trace the cold start up tapping noise, a bit like a slack timing chain. They could not resolve it and refered it to the Nissan dealer who eventually (3 days of cold starting) identified the drive belts as the cause. These were replaced about a year/12k miles ago and the tapping has not returned. hope this is helpful.
We run a Nissan Tino with basically the same 2.2 diesel engine as the X Trail. It was purchased used and went back to the garage under warranty twice to trace the cold start up tapping noise, a bit like a slack timing chain. They could not resolve it and refered it to the Nissan dealer who eventually (3 days of cold starting) identified the drive belts as the cause. These were replaced about a year/12k miles ago and the tapping has not returned. hope this is helpful.
That's interesting but my rattle is just the usual diesel clatter when cold
It goes away after a few miles
I wonder what they mean by drive belts as the XT engine has a timing chain that only leaves the alternator etc belt.
It goes away after a few miles
I wonder what they mean by drive belts as the XT engine has a timing chain that only leaves the alternator etc belt.
That is correct it was the alternator belt, does that also drive the power steering or is there a separate belt? Anyway I was informed all the belts were replaced and subsequently re- adjusted.
Possibly the noise our engine made could have been described as one tappet/shim badly out of adjustment - but very, very loud. I expect the sound of a noise to one person's ear may sound different to someone else.
Possibly the noise our engine made could have been described as one tappet/shim badly out of adjustment - but very, very loud. I expect the sound of a noise to one person's ear may sound different to someone else.
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Mark
1500 kg is on the heavy side for an x trail, but should tow without snaking.
I would only expect power issues, hill starts, long inclines etc.
Ensure you have a lest 85kg nose weight, I find 90 kg ok but find the front end feels light over this, just my preference, not saying you cant load to 100kg.
Also I always increase the tyre pressures to full load pressures and slightly above for the front. That is 36psi rear, 34psi front.
I always use an antisnake device I find the alko2500 to be very good.
Your problem could be the van frontage that is maybe it has a poor aerodynamic that's a bad partner for the x trail?
Finally if weather permits I always put the sunroof on tilt, I haven't a clue if this helps with airflow, but it certainly tows my bailey senator Vermont ok. (1330kg approx).
Ps try towing at 55mph rather than 60mph. Side winds, road surfaces etc all contribute to stability.
1500 kg is on the heavy side for an x trail, but should tow without snaking.
I would only expect power issues, hill starts, long inclines etc.
Ensure you have a lest 85kg nose weight, I find 90 kg ok but find the front end feels light over this, just my preference, not saying you cant load to 100kg.
Also I always increase the tyre pressures to full load pressures and slightly above for the front. That is 36psi rear, 34psi front.
I always use an antisnake device I find the alko2500 to be very good.
Your problem could be the van frontage that is maybe it has a poor aerodynamic that's a bad partner for the x trail?
Finally if weather permits I always put the sunroof on tilt, I haven't a clue if this helps with airflow, but it certainly tows my bailey senator Vermont ok. (1330kg approx).
Ps try towing at 55mph rather than 60mph. Side winds, road surfaces etc all contribute to stability.
I don't think that 1500kg is heavy for a car that weighs 1650kg
The CC say that an experienced tower may go to 100per cent and Nissan say that the max tow weight is 2000kg for the diesel
I can't get my noseweight down much below 100kg on the Oklahoma but I have fitted M A D variable rate springs as I had noticed mine and a lot more on the motorway were towing with the car down at the back.Now that HRH has biught an invalid buggy I am glad that I got the M A Ds!
Agree with your comments on speed as over an indicated 60mph (55 on speed camera indicator) it feels a tad twitchy.
The CC say that an experienced tower may go to 100per cent and Nissan say that the max tow weight is 2000kg for the diesel
I can't get my noseweight down much below 100kg on the Oklahoma but I have fitted M A D variable rate springs as I had noticed mine and a lot more on the motorway were towing with the car down at the back.Now that HRH has biught an invalid buggy I am glad that I got the M A Ds!
Agree with your comments on speed as over an indicated 60mph (55 on speed camera indicator) it feels a tad twitchy.
Just been down to the caravan dealer who said that I probably needed to increase the noseweight, also did a check on his computer programme the kerbweight etc, came up as 1510kg! So went down to the weighbridge with me in the car and 3/4 tank of fuel it weighed in at 1700kg which is an 85% match for my van
Hi Mark glad that its all OK
The trouble with Nissan is that they won't give a specific kerbweight for a specific model and will only give a range of max - min kerbweights for all the XTs
I emailed them but got knowhere
I have seen a similar low kerbweight given and this can only deter people from buying the Xt so is not to Nissan's benefit---assuming they want to sell to caravanners
The trouble with Nissan is that they won't give a specific kerbweight for a specific model and will only give a range of max - min kerbweights for all the XTs
I emailed them but got knowhere
I have seen a similar low kerbweight given and this can only deter people from buying the Xt so is not to Nissan's benefit---assuming they want to sell to caravanners
just like many other i was in a bit of confusion over the kerb weight of my x trail columbia 2.2 dci. I took it down to the local public weighbridge and it weighed in at 1760 kg with a near full tank of fuel and me sitting in the drivers seat(85kg.
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