Facelifted 2026 Nissan X-Trail unveiled in Japan with sporty Nismo and rugged Rock Creek variants to rival new-generation Toyota RAV4

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Nissan has unveiled the facelifted version of its X-Trail midsize SUV in Japan alongside two new specialised grades to extend both performance and off-road capability.

Nismo, Nissan’s performance and motorsport brand, has been responsible for creating a flagship version of the SUV, while the Rock Creek grade targets buyers looking to take their X-Trail off the beaten track.

Along with a host of minor interior and exterior updates, the two-pronged strategy will help the X-Trail target the incoming Toyota RAV4, which similarly features a hot GR Sport and rugged Woodland grade – although the latter is only being released in North America, at least for now.

While these updates and new grades are specifically for the Japanese market right now, given Australia’s X-Trail stock is sourced from the same factory, at least some carryover appears likely in the future.

What’s new on the 2026 X-Trail?

The updated Nissan X-Trail has a more rugged look on offer with a new grille that is supported by a gloss black lower bumper with satin silver accents, new alloy wheel designs, and LED front and rear indicators.

Interior updates include a larger centre console bin, tan upholstery being replaced by dark brown Nappa leather in the top spec and USB-C charging points to replace USB-A points. 

Furthermore, the X-Trail will become the latest SUV to adopt built-in Google software to allow users to login to their personal account and use apps such as Maps without the need for phone mirroring software, such as Apple CarPlay.

Nismo variant brings more performance

Nismo, Nissan’s performance and motorsport brand, have been busy developing a new sports variant of the X-Trail e-Power midsize SUV, with sales scheduled to commence on September 24 in Japan.

The Nismo-tuned e-Power X-Trail is set to rival the 2026 Toyota RAV4 GR Sport, although the RAV4 is set to hit Aussie shores, while the X-Trail Nismo is destined for the Japanese domestic market only – as confirmed by a Nissan representative. 

Nismo-tuning of the suspension is said to both reduce body motion while preserving ride comfort. For the first time, Nissan has used Kayaba Swing Valve shock absorbers on the X-Trail, which are known for their low-speed precision and general comfort.

Powered by a hybrid all-wheel drive powertrain system, Nissan says it will increase rear-wheel drive bias to free up the front tires for turning ability. 

Nissan did not mention a change in engine, but it’s likely the same 1.5-litre three cylinder turbo petrol engine is used to generate power.

The X-Trail Nismo also has a 29 per cent reduction in lift compared to the base model, due to the wider opening centre of the wheels and a flat outer rim to streamline airflow. 

While generally familiar in appearance, the Nismo comes with 20-inch wheels covered by Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires, dark chrome across the front end, a diffuser-shaped rear, and a red stripe under the front and rear spoilers.

The interior also features red highlights, with an option to add Recaro sports seats to complete the motorsport aesthetic.

Nissan X-Trails are currently priced between $39,990 and $57,990 driveaway here in Australia following recent discounts. The X-Trail Nismo is top spec in Japan and starts at 5,509,900YEN (or roughly $57,442 AUD). If it was sold in Australia, it would likely sit at the top of the range in the circa-$60,000 range.

Rock Creek introduced to rival Subaru Forester

Originally introduced to the US-market X-Trail (known there as the Rogue), the Rock Creek is designed to offer slightly enhanced off-road capability. 

The N-Trek, offered here in Oz, has 17-inch alloy wheels and offers similar off-road vibes to the Rock Creek – though the Subaru Forester is much more capable off the beaten track.