Nissan has started production of the new X-Trail crossover SUV at its St. Petersburg plant in Russia.
“We are very pleased to announce the official start of production of the new Nissan X-Trail at our St. Petersburg plant,” said Igor Boytsov, vice president, Nissan Motor Manufacturing Russia. “The move has seen the installation of sophisticated new equipment and additional training for our staff, guaranteeing the efficient manufacturing of this innovative model while bringing our ‘northern capital’ plant into the future.”
Specifically adapted for the local Russian market demands, the new X-Trail features an upgraded suspension to enhance ride comfort and handling. It also includes Yandex.Avto systems supporting weather forecasting, music streaming and voice assistant services. Yandex.Navigator is a popular GPS system in Russia, which will allow X-Trail drivers to optimize their route by avoiding traffic jams.
The X-Trail crossover became the second Nissan model ever to be produced at the plant, with the first customer cars rolling off the line in 2009. Since then, almost 200,000 have been built.
To meet the production requirements of the new model, the St. Petersburg plant has undergone a series of upgrades. For example, laser-sensor capability has been installed across all welding equipment to enhance precision, alongside the introduction of software systems to improve vehicle noise isolation. The X-Trail test assembly process began in April, meaning the upgraded crossover SUV has been comprehensively prepared for its launch in the Russian market.
Nissan has operated in Russia since 2004. In CY 2017 Nissan Group in Russia sold 105,482 Nissan, Infiniti and Datsun cars. The market share of Nissan, Infiniti and Datsun in Russia amounts to 6.6%. Russia is today one of the few countries worldwide offering all three brands of Nissan Group.
