06/10/2008 15:41. I’ve always had a soft spot for Nissan’s X-Trail - but then that applies to most of the off-road vehicles from this understated and often under-rated stable.

There’s the beautiful Murano, for instance, which I’ve loved since I first clapped eyes on one. And the Qashqai – a stunner visually as well as being a terrific performer.

Then there’s the older X-Trail, which has always appealed to me because of its shape: butch, square, macho but at the same time, a brilliant car for women as well.

Comfy interior, an off-road stalwart with pleasing road performance, what’s not to like about it?

Now it’s better than ever and that’s because, apart from its recently updated and sexier appearance, you can also buy a two-litre, turbocharged, common-rail diesel version

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