Nissan has launched a more powerful, larger-capacity diesel engine for its flagship X-Trail crossover. The 2.0-litre unit is available to order now, and first deliveries to customers are expected for early in the new year.

The new engine has an output of 175 bhp, with 280 lb ft of torque, a significant step up in power from the existing 1.6-litre 128 bhp diesel.

Also new to the range is the choice of Nissan’s Xtronic automatic gearbox, linked to a four-wheel drive transmission. Added to the options of a six-speed manual and two-wheel drive, this will further broaden Nissan’s presence in the large SUV sector.

Nissan says the X-Trail is in demand. Across Europe, sales are up 50 per cent in the year to October 2016 when compared to the previous 12 months. The company expects sales to grow further with the arrival of the new model, with industry data revealing higher-powered models account for 46 per cent of the medium SUV segment. With the launch of the 2.0-litre diesel, the X-Trail’s market coverage increases by 41 per cent.

Guillaume Cartier, Senior Vice President for Sales and Marketing, Nissan Europe, commented: “The new flagship Nissan X-Trail is a crossover that’s focused on delivering what consumers need. Offering 4WD linked to an automatic transmission for the first time, it’s a significant enhancement to the already strong X-Trail range. It’s also a compelling upgrade to our already successful 1.6-litre diesel model.”

The engine meets Euro 6 emissions standards, and three versions are available:

2.0 4WD six-speed manual
149 g/km 50.5 mpg (combined)

2.0 2WD Xtronic CVT auto
148 g/km 50.5 mpg (combined)

2.0 4WD Xtronic CVT auto
158 g/km 47.1 mpg (combined)

The design of the Nissan X-Trail remains otherwise unchanged.