Amalsha VS

MODERN, AESTHETIC & CHARACTERFUL

The current-gen Nissan X-Trail takes a sharper exterior approach compared to the previous generation’s smoother, more curvaceous design language. Although not as boxy as the earlier generations, I personally think the latest X-Trail has a bit more character than its immediate predecessor. It blends in well while standing out just enough not to be an NPC-looking generic modern SUV. And the model we drove, garbed in Boulder Gray Pearl, perfectly adhered to this design philosophy.

FAST & FUN ENOUGH FOR ON-ROADING AND SOFT-ROADING

The 2025 Nissan X-Trail offers a striking combination of everything you would expect from a midsize SUV.

Looking at the X-Trail’s evolution since its inception, it has evidently transitioned into a softer version after each generation. But this time, we felt that it has travelled back to its “Tough Gear” roots, reviving a bit more of its original prowess in tackling minor sessions off the paved path. Hence, we found the new X-Trail performing admirably at whatever we threw at it, ranging from the hectic Sharjah-Dubai commute to speed bursts on some trails, although nothing like proper dune bashing in the desert.

The 2025 Nissan X-Trail is powered by a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder motor, mated to a CVT transmission, pushing out a respectable 181 horsepower and 244 NM of torque. These figures are competent enough, and the transmission is tuned well-enough to deliver satisfying kicks without ever getting stuck in the stagnancy of the “rubber band effect” often associated with CVT transmissions. The all-wheel-drivetrain does a respectable job in delivering confident and dynamic handling on and off the tarmac. However, if you’re seeking something that can deliver decently hardcore off-roading abilities, you should consider the bigger, bolder, Nissan X-Terra.

Highway-cruising at 160 kph is effortless as a breeze, with no stability issues or crosswind scares whatsoever.

There are five drive modes to choose from, namely Auto (the equivalent of Normal/Comfort for Nissan), along with ECO, Sport, Snow and Off-Road. Auto mode redeems its identity by delivering an evidently noticeable shift in the way the X-Trail behaves under different driving conditions and styles. Efficiency is impressive in ECO mode, and still respectable in Sport mode, which unlocks the full potential of the X-Trail. 0-100 kph took just above the 8-second mark in our testing, and highway-cruising at 160 was effortless as a breeze, with no stability issues or crosswind scares whatsoever.

WELL-BUILT WITH ALL THE COMFORT AND TECH YOU’LL EVER NEED

The interior of this midsize Nissan turned out to be more plush and comfy than we expected. Although there are both five-seater and seven-seater variants available, we would call it a 5+2-seater in real world conditions and recommend the third-row to be reserved for kids. The seats are well cushioned with plenty enough electrical adjustments provided, especially if you’re obsessed with finding that perfect driving posture like some of us. The second row too is decently spacious, with enough space for three adults without sacrificing headroom or legroom.

It is more than practical enough for families & luxurious enough to deliver a wow factor each time you step into it.

Another point to note is the presence of enough physical, tactile buttons. I personally consider this a blessing in today’s world where automakers tend to cram everything into a single, lifeless touchscreen screen or even worse, assign them to touch-sensitive buttons.

PLENTY OF TECH FEATURES

A pair of 12.3-inch screens are provided, one as the central infotainment touchscreen and the other as the instrument console. A head-up display which lets you glue your eyes onto the road and wireless charging are also features offered as standard in the top-end trims.

Among the abundantly provided tech features, we were the most impressed by the effortless wireless smartphone connectivity offered via both Android Auto & Apple CarPlay. Specifically this part which some might not consider as a pivotal aspect because we have faced issues with wireless connectivity, particularly with Android Auto in much more luxurious vehicles, some that even cost more than double the X-Trail.

Effortless wireless smartphone connectivity is offered via both Android Auto & Apple CarPlay.

Some other praiseworthy bits in the X-Trail include all the driver-assistance features you would expect in a modern car, including a rearview mirror that doubles up as a camera screen that doesn’t obstruct the view of the driver.

FINAL FIRST IMPRESSIONS

The 2025 Nissan X-Trail offers a striking combination of everything you would expect from a midsize SUV. It is more than practical enough for a family and luxurious enough to deliver a wow factor every time you step into it. From the driver’s seat it is playful and confidence-inspiring, enough to put a smile on your face whether it be on the road or on a mild trail. Overall, it is one of the most ideal machines for the region, in terms of size, segment, and performance, offering a versatile and all-inclusive personal mobility solution.

FAQ

Emirates Petroleum Company PJSC (Emarat), a pioneer in the UAE’s oil and gas industry, has opened its 158th service station with the launch of “Al Buhaira” in Barsha South, expanding Emarat’s presence in New Dubai and introducing the region’s first dedicated Electric Vehicle Service Center.

The EV Service Center is being launched in collaboration with EVS – Electric Vehicle Services LLC under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that aligns EVS’s expertise in EV maintenance and diagnostics with Emarat’s Lube Express network and service standards. As outlined in the MoU, the collaboration will establish co-branded “EVS Express Service Bays” within designated Lube Express facilities, with EVS managing daily operations and Emarat providing the in-station footprint, utilities and customer-flow integration; a pilot phase will run at Barsha South (Dubai), Nahrawan (Dubai) and Muwafjah (Sharjah).

Reflecting Emarat’s new brand identity, Al Buhaira station has been designed as a high-convenience destination offering motorists and nearby residents fuel, fresh food, car care and everyday retail in a single, easily accessible location. Situated on Al Barsha South Street, the station operates 24 hours to serve residents, schools, clinics, last-mile fleets and commuter traffic across New Dubai.

H.E. Ali Khalifa Al Shamsi, Chief Executive Officer of Emarat, said:“Al Buhaira marks two milestones for Emarat: a flagship addition to our New Dubai network and the GCC’s first Electric Vehicle Service Center. By partnering with EVS and integrating EV quick-service within our Lube Express model, we are extending Emarat’s promise of safety, quality and convenience to every driver—regular or electric—while supporting the UAE’s clean-mobility agenda.”

Al Buhaira station offers Special 95, Super 98, E-Plus 91 and Gas Oil, along with a Freshplus convenience store, Bakeria & Café Arabica, on-site car wash facilities, Lube Express, and a dedicated fast food offering that will open soon.

Ali Bin Zayed Al Falasi, Chief Retail Officer and Senior Vice President of Marketing at Emarat, said:
“Our vision has always been to evolve alongside our customers—anticipating their needs and redefining convenience in every journey. This site embodies that vision, blending fast access, reliable car care, and quality food and retail into one seamless experience. The new EV Service Center takes it a step further, offering future-ready diagnostics and quick service for EV owners, delivered with the same HSE excellence and efficiency our customers trust. We’re growing ever closer to our community, enhancing how they move, connect, and experience Emarat every day.”

Saeed Aljunaibi, Founder & CEO of EVS – Electric Vehicle Services LLC, said: “This collaboration with Emarat represents more than a milestone, it’s the beginning of a new era for EV ownership. EVS is building a global network that makes electric mobility effortless, combining expertise, technology, and accessibility in one ecosystem. Our goal is simple: to become the world’s most trusted name for everything related to electric vehicles, where drivers find complete solutions no one else has yet achieved.”

The station is now open to the public. Further EV quick-service rollouts under the Emarat–EVS collaboration will be announced as new locations come online.

General Motors continues to be a dominant player in the full-size SUV landscape in the Middle East, powered by its world-class vehicles from Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac, as well as a growing base of youth, recording a rise of 28% year-over-year (YoY) in third quarter sales compared to 2024.

Reinforcing GM’s influence in the region’s evolving mobility market, this growth is bolstered by GM’s full-size SUV lineup comprising the bold Chevrolet Tahoe and Chevrolet Suburban, the capable GMC Yukon, and iconic Cadillac Escalade. Emphasizing the region’s dynamic appetite for powerful, premium and tech-forward vehicles, in September 2025, GM Middle East’s top growth markets were Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait.

Furthermore, the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction goes beyond the showroom. GM Middle East continues to witness consistent growth in repeat aftersales customers with a 33% rise over the last 5 years, indicating trust and loyalty among our customers. In fact, GM Middle East stocks hundreds of thousands of spare parts, sourcing for the entire Africa and Middle East region through its global network of suppliers. Surpassing industry benchmarks, GM supports regional dealerships with a fill-rate above 95% for fast-moving parts, year after year. This operational excellence ensures GM customers across the Middle East experience minimal downtime and maximum confidence.

GM has also rolled out over-the-air (OTA) vehicle software updates—powered by its in-vehicle pioneering connected technology OnStar—across connected markets in the GCC*. This marks a major step in GM’s digital evolution, enabling seamless software enhancements and connected services for customers.

Beyond product and tech, GM’s deep understanding of the regional market is driving success across multiple consumer segments, where evolving demographics are reshaping ownership trends. Traditional dominance by GCC nationals continues to grow with rising interest from Asian expatriates choosing GM’s full-size SUVs as symbols of success and lifestyle elevation. In addition, female ownership is growing, especially in the UAE and Qatar. Plus, a generational shift is happening with customers aged 20 to 29 emerging as a powerful force in the market, especially for models like the Chevrolet Tahoe and Cadillac Escalade.

Commenting on these major milestones Jack Uppal, President and Managing Director for GM Africa and Middle East said: ” Driven by a new generation of customers and a bold shift in mobility expectations, our full-sized SUVs from Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac reflect the progressive identity of the Middle East and tech-focused vision. Meanwhile, the growing influence of expatriate customers on our iconic brands signals a shift in regional dynamics, and a demand for powerful, premium, and connected vehicles. Moreover, with innovations like Super Cruise coming soon to the region, GM remains focused on bringing meaningful, customer-driven technology to market and leading the way in advanced driver assistance and personal autonomous capabilities.”

Model Highlights: Tailored Appeal Across Segments

• Chevrolet Tahoe is gaining momentum among younger Saudis and remains a favorite among Emiratis, reflecting its deep-rooted brand loyalty and multi-generational appeal.
• GMC Yukon continues to resonate with middle-aged South Asian buyers in Saudi Arabia while maintaining strong appeal among GCC nationals, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted and versatile choice.
• Cadillac Escalade is expanding its reach with a diverse ownership base that includes Indians, Pakistanis, British, and wider Middle Eastern buyers. Its premium positioning is striking a chord with younger Saudis and Qataris, who are embracing luxury with confidence and pride.

The evolving ownership landscape in the Middle East marks a pivotal moment for the brand. Strong repeat ownership, rising appeal among expatriate communities, and growing female engagement all point to a deepening connection with Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac.

Looking ahead, GM Middle East is on track to launch a diverse range vehicles across all propulsions. For Chevrolet, this includes the new Captiva, and the upcoming Captiva EV/PHEV family, as well as performance icons like the Corvette ZR1 and ZR1X. Cadillac will expand its luxury EV offering with the highly anticipated VISTIQ, the ESCALADE IQ, and the ultra-luxury CELESTIQ—each a testament to GM’s commitment to innovation and excellence.