IT MIGHT be late on the scene, but strong performance and the promise of moderate consumption from the 2.5-litre engine, attractive pricing, reasonable equipment levels and good manners on and off the beaten track all combine to make the X-Trail a strong contender in the recreational four-wheel drive segment. For the most part it mimics the popular CR-V in basic design and packaging, although it makes a notable departure with some unique features (the hardback luggage compartment and dash-mounted bottle chillers/warmers, to name two) as well as disappointing omissions such as a centre-rear lap-sash seatbelt.