The refreshed Nissan X-Trail arrives with a sharper look, upgraded technology and significantly lower prices.

The Nissan X-Trail has taken many forms, from the boxy first- and second-generation models to the smoother third iteration and the fourth generation, which attempted to strike a balance between the two design philosophies.

The facelifted model, launched in South Africa this week as part of the company’s strategy to bolster its imported range after ending local production, builds on the latter with a fresh look and new interior technologies aimed at keeping it current amid fierce competition from Chinese rivals. The company is also planning to introduce the new Tekton SUV later this year.

The new-look Nissan X-Trail offers more technology, enhanced safety features

As before, the Nissan X-Trail is available in three variants, but prices have been reduced significantly. The 2.5 Visia kicks things off at R599,900, down from the previous version's R687,900 sticker price. The 2.5 Acenta occupies the middle ground at R688,900, while the 2.5 Acenta Plus all-wheel drive tops the line-up at R770,900. These models previously cost R751,900 and R812,900 respectively.