The updated 2026 Nissan X-Trail is set to arrive in Australia in early 2026 (between January and March), bringing with it subtle design tweaks, enhanced technology, and a price bump of $1150 across the entire range. The mid-size SUV remains a popular choice, and these upgrades aim to keep it competitive in a crowded market.
Design and Technology Updates
The refreshed X-Trail features a refined exterior design, with updated styling at both the front and rear. Key changes include new LED lighting signatures, redesigned bumpers, and a modified front grille insert. Nissan Australia has also introduced new exterior paint color options, though specifics are yet to be announced. Inside, the X-Trail receives enhanced interior materials and finishes, aiming to elevate the premium feel of the cabin.
Connected Car Services
A significant technology addition is the introduction of Connected Car Services (CCS 1.0). This system provides remote vehicle control and monitoring features, accessible through a dedicated smartphone app. Owners will be able to remotely start their engines, receive vehicle health reports, and receive maintenance alerts, adding convenience and peace of mind.
Improved Safety Tech
Higher trim levels (ST-L and above) benefit from an updated Around View Monitor surround camera system. This includes a new “Skeleton Hood” see-through view, providing enhanced visibility, and a “Multi View” angle specifically designed to aid navigation through T-junctions. However, the Google built-in services, which debuted in the related Qashqai model, will not be available on the Australian X-Trail.
Trim Levels and Powertrain Options
The X-Trail range maintains its existing ST, ST-L, Ti, and Ti-L trim levels, available in both 2WD and AWD configurations, and with the option of the e-Power series hybrid drivetrain. Notably, the more rugged-looking N-Trek variants are discontinued for the 2026 model year.
Engine Choices and Hybrid Premium
Engine options remain unchanged. The standard drivetrain consists of a 135kW/244Nm 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a CVT automatic transmission. The e-Power hybrid system combines a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with dual electric motors and AWD. It’s worth noting that the hybrid model is exclusive to ST-L, Ti, and Ti-L trims, commanding a starting price of $48,915 before on-road costs — significantly higher than the base petrol model.
Missing Features and Availability
Nissan Australia has stated that it won’t be offering the rugged Rock Creek trim level currently available in Japan, nor will the sportier Nismo grade be offered, which remains exclusive to the Japanese domestic market.
Seating Configurations
Five- and seven-seat configurations will continue to be offered, but Nissan hasn’t specified which variants will be available with a third row. Currently, only petrol AWD models offer seven-seat capacity, despite three-row e-Power models being sold in other markets.
Warranty and Pricing
The refreshed X-Trail will be covered by Nissan’s 10-year/300,000km conditional new-vehicle warranty, with capped-price servicing available for up to 10 years/300,000km when performed by authorized Nissan dealers. Full pricing and detailed specifications will be released closer to the vehicle’s launch in early 2026.
The 2026 Nissan X-Trail facelift represents a subtle yet meaningful upgrade, bringing fresh styling, connected-car features, and enhanced safety tech to the popular mid-size SUV. While some desirable trims from overseas markets won’t be available in Australia, the changes should help keep the X-Trail competitive and appealing to buyers. The price increase is a factor, but the overall package remains compelling, especially for those seeking a reliable and well-equipped family vehicle
