Nissan X-Trail - long-term review

If you’ve got an electric car (whether it's battery or petrol-powered like ours) the chances are you’ve got an e-pedal, and the X-Trail is no different. And if you're anything like me, you'll get addicted to it, especially when it’s this good.

I find myself naturally getting in, switching it on and enjoying the braking that it does for you. And the force is strong in the X-Trail... quite literally, as it can often result in a few nodding heads as you navigate the urban rat runs. Still far more effective and stronger than using the X-Trail’s brakes in the 'traditional' way (ie, stamping on them).

There’s also an argument that it's safer, too - that split second of moving your foot across could make the difference between a crash or not.

However, I think I’ve found a flaw. I’m getting some squeaking from the rear while turning and braking. I reckon it's because the brakes don’t get used properly enough due to the engine braking that comes with the e-pedal de-acceleration. A few trips using the brakes in the 'traditional' way (ie, really stamping on them) tends to clear it up.

Perhaps I’m getting lazy but those times when you judge your throttle lift off perfectly that results in the car coming to a standstill at exactly the right time gives me much driving satisfaction. Time to have a word with myself.