Production cars and futuristic concepts->ke169 aren’t the only things showing up for the 2016 Geneva Motor Show.->ke228 Nissan->ke62 is bringing a pair of customized crossovers that the automaker hopes will bring attention to the brand. Both the Qashqai->ke1889 and X-Trail->ke2317 examples have been remained with interesting paintwork and design cues, along with interior upgrades that bring added flair to the designs. Here, we’ll be focusing on the X-Trail.

Nissan says the X-Trail is “targeted for the ‘Premium Adventurist,’ who will be thinking of mountain adventures in the Alps or the Pyrenees.” While it’s hard to imagine the X-Trail soft-roader talking more than a dirt path, Nissan’s Global Design Center in Japan sees this as “pushing boundaries and exploring creative solutions to fulfill the broad range of the needs of the aspirational customers in Europe.”

Marketing hype aside, the X-Trail Concept does look swanky, especially with the matte gold accents, carbon fiber accent on the hood, and 20-inch wheels. The most disappointing aspect is knowing this concept will likely never see production – unless Nissan gets rave remarks at Geneva. In that case, the X-Trail could receive a similar appearance package sold in limited numbers.

For U.S. buyers, hope is completely lost. That’s because the X-Trail isn’t offered Stateside, but rather the Rouge,->ke2176 which granted is based on the same platform and has uncanny similarities. Secondly, Nissan’s statements about the X-Trail Concept detail how this design study was conducted with European customers in mind – something the U.S. is somewhat lacking.

Regardless of all that, let’s take a look at Nissan’s latest concept.

Continue reading to learn more about the Nissan X-Trail Premium Concept.

2016 Nissan X-Trail Premium Concept

Specifications
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  • Model: 2016 Nissan X-Trail Premium Concept
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Pros
Cons

Exterior

The X-Trail Concept carries some pretty unique looks. The base color is a matt white that acts nicely as a canvas for the faux carbon fiber-wrapped hood with its grey center accent. The wheel arches carry a glossy black finish that is mirrored in the bumper trim and wheels. Silver accents on the side mirrors add a pop of interest, matching Nissan’s V-Motion grille design.

The main splash of color comes from a golden copper color that graces the front bumper guard, rocker sill plates, fender flairs, and wheels. Aside from the color changes, this concept remains similar to any standard X-Trail.

Interior

Nissan is waiting until the official debut at Geneva to show off the X-Trail Concept’s interior. However, Nissan did give a fairly comprehensive description of the upgrades. The upholstery is premium leather with a tan and black color scheme that mirrors the outside. There’ something called a “cloud effect” design on the headrests and seat sides, though what exactly that is has yet to be determined. The seats are accented with Ultrasuede gold pearl leather piping on the center section and seat backs. The dashboard and door panels get black carbon fiver finishings with a matt, dark chrome accent.

The X-Trail Concept’s interior is expected to retain most of its stock appearance and seating layout, so expect room for seven with Nissan’s typical design detailing.

Drivetrain

Nissan makes no mention of the X-Trail’s powertrain, so we’re left to speculate. Since this concept is all about appearances and comfort, it’s hard to imagine anything different under hood. That means the X-Trail could come with any one of the three powertrains offered on the production model. They include a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, and a 1.6-liter four-cylinder diesel. A six-speed manual and CVT transmission are offered. The CVT comes with six pre-set “gear ratios” for manual-style shifting.

Of course, the X-Trail offers 4WD, which this concept undoubtedly includes. Nissan’s system is called All-Mode 4x4-i. It continually monitors wheel slippage and sends power to where its best needed, allowing the X-Trail to navigate slippery terrain like snow, slick mud, and sand.

Conclusion

Nissan’s X-Trail Concept seems like a great design stud, but it’s doubtful if we will ever see anything similar to this hit showrooms. That’s a shame, because the matt golden copper accents contrasted by the glossy black and matt white colors really look good. And we can’t wait to see what the interior holds. Rest assured, we’ll bring you more information once Nissan debuts the X-Trail Concept at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show come March 1st and 2nd.