PERHAPS goaded into action by comments that its X-Trail SUV was a little light on its loafers for towing horse boxes, Nissan has added a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel of 174bhp to the line-up.

Previously available only with a 1.6-litre turbo diesel rated at 128bhp, the new X-Trail's new powerful addition also allows the use of Nissan's Xtronic CVT automatic transmission in the range for the first time, though there's the option of a six-speed manual too.

The hope is that the added appeal to the range will help maintain a sales curve which has seen the X-Trail attract 50% more customers in the year to October, 2106. The company says that the extra power adds a potential 41% to its target market, principally because of its added towing capacity, which is now two tonnes (braked) with manual gearing and 1650 with the auto option.

Available with a five or seven seat arrangement, the latest high-powered models are priced from £29,095 and the first deliveries are due to arrive with customers this month.

The engine meets Euro 6 emissions standards and the four-wheel-drive models can hit 50mpg with the manual gearing and just under it with the auto 'box.

All the change is out of sight as the body style is remains unchanged, with several luggage lugging options for the boot space if you don't needed it for small people. The second row splits and folds 60/40 for additional luggage space, reclines for passenger comfort and slides forward for easy access to the optional third row which can split 50/50 and folds completely flat for maximum load space.

Boot capacity is 550 litres, or 445 litres on the seven-seat version and 135 litres when the third row of seats is upright. A total of 1982 litres is available with all seats folded down.

Premium features to add that extra touch of comfort and convenience include a power-opening panoramic roof, double stitched leather upholstery, LED interior lighting and gloss black trim with metallic accents.

Quick-heat front seats also get you going better on wintry mornings, while heated/cooled cupholders keep drinks at the preferred temperature. Another add-on is a 7-inch NissanConnect touch-screen infotainment system, which has DAB digital radio, Bluetooth connectivity and audio streaming.

Also optional is the All-Mode 4x4-i system, from which drivers can select from full-time two-wheel-drive for better economy; 'Auto' mode, which adjusts the balance of torque between the front and rear wheels for the best traction; and four-wheel-drive 'Lock' mode for more challenging conditions.