This Nissan X-Trail, though, takes a giant leap forward to match its competitors. The price of the Nissan X-Trail is similar to its competitors but when you see the number of features – including the expansive list of safety systems – the car is good value.

The interior

To be a true family-friendly mid-size SUV, the vehicle needs to have space and use it efficiently. The X-Trail does this in both the five and seven-seat versions as it’s wider and taller than previous models.

Having an 85-degree rear-door opening doesn’t sound like much of a feature, but it makes a big difference when getting kids in and out of their seats. It also makes it easier for bigger people to get in and out of the car.

Nissan’s clever ‘divide and hide’ system on the five-seater models allows the sections of the cargo floor to be removed and placed vertically into slots. This turns them into dividers to create separate storage compartments.

Under the bonnet

Nissan has done well to match the 2.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine with the continuously variable transmission (CVT), so there’s not as much engine flaring noise as in other cars. However, if you don’t like CVT you’re out of luck, as there isn’t a manual transmission option.  Nissan has just released a hybrid version but it’s not reviewed here.

On the road

I found the active cruise controls to be quite intuitive, and ProPilot – the system for managing lane-keep assist – can on some occasions be quite interventionist and annoying.

Thankfully, the heads-up display is a redeeming feature that’s easy to read in all lighting conditions.

The ride, handling and cabin noise management keep road noises to a minimum on most surfaces, which adds to the feeling of quality and provides a touch of luxury.

It’s well overdue but now it’s here. Nissan is again a real competitor in the mid-sized SUV market and should be in the top half of your shopping list.