X MARKS THE SPOT FOR NISSAN'S BIG FAMILY SUV

The X-Trail proved a hit when new, and offers a lot now for not much cash

- SAM PHILLIPS

The third-generation Nissan X-Trail presented a challenging design brief. Not only did this family SUV need to fill the void left by the defunct seven-seat Qashqai +2, it also needed to appeal to buyers looking to ditch their MPV. What followed was a sleek, Qashqai-inspired soft-roader that could cater to families, however big or small.

In 2014 you would have paid close to £30,000, now just over a tenth of the price impressive value for a seven-seat SUV that offers the same space, versatility and ease of use as any modern family hauler.

Indeed, the swish exterior reinvention meant the same treatment had to be applied to the cabin, which has a generally pleasant, pragmatic ambience. The unusual quirks of its predecessors, such as the centrally mounted instruments and funky upholstery, were gone, with the new X-Trail adopting a sensible and robust approach. Sure, it's a bit austere, but the panoramic roof that's fitted to many advertised examples adds a touch of allure and the fixtures and fittings are all toddler-proof.