SUPER SEVENS

Nissan's latest X-Trail aims to be the perfect solution for families who need a seven-seat SUV. We pitch it against the Kia Sorento 

SOMETIMES, five seats simply aren't enough. Maybe you've got a growing family and three rear seats just won't do, or maybe your children have suddenly become unimaginably popular; having the space for seven just makes allowances for any situation.

The Nissan X-Trail is a car that offers that level of versatility. New for 2023, the fourth-generation model comes with the provision for seven people - or five and a big boot - but beyond that, Nissan has thrown all of its powertrain know-how at the line-up, which includes a clever new hybrid system. This promises to make this seven-seater not too thirsty on the school run.

The Kia Sorento follows a similar formula: seven seats, plenty of cabin space and a mix of petrol and electric power. In other words, it's the SUV that the Nissan needs to beat. The Auto Express Real-World Road Test will find the winner.

WHAT IS A REAL-WORLD ROAD TEST?

THE Auto Express Real-World Road Test subjects the latest cars to our rigorous assessment processes, which are focused on buyers' needs.

We consider the merits of each car, not only the way that it drives, but also every aspect important to owners, from the space inside to the usability of infotainment systems.

Equally importantly, we give you a clearer indication than ever of how much you can expect to pay if you place an order today, thanks to our in-depth number crunching.

Nissan X-Trail

MODEL TESTED: Nissan X-Trail e-Power e-4orce Tekna

PRICE: £45,485

POWERTRAIN: 1.5-litre 3cyl hybrid, 210bhp

OVER its four generations, the X-Trail has transformed from a rugged 4x4 into a slick, contemporary SUV that boasts some of the most intriguing technology in its class. In high-spec Tekna trim, this range-topping hybrid and the addition of a third row of seats lifts the price to £45,485.