Both are good
mike dockal said:
I actually bought new X-Trail because I could not find good used car with 5spd. I'm in Vancouver and just about everyone drives auto. I can't stand it, I had to drive a company car with auto for 4 years and really hated it (slow, not downshifting when going uphill, tall gearing ...). I like to be in control, especialy off road and on the snow. I don't think the automatic is any advantage off road.
Hi Mike,
I'm not saying one is netter than the other, as both transmission types have their advantages and disadvantages.
For example, with the 2.5 litres engine and all wheel drive (on selections of the 4WD setting) that we have in our xtrails here in Australia, driving on sand (i.e. beach driving) is better done using an auto as it is possible to change gears without losing momentum by using the clutch in the manual. (a plus for auto).
MT give better engine braking for steep trails (a plus for MT)
AT is the closest substitute to the lack of low range gear on the xtrails. It is better for an auto transmission to slip than to rid the clutch of a manual.
By the way, this only my 2nd AT car, as I always drove a manual and I'm not saying that auto is more practical the manual, as this depends on your driving style and your driving conditions.
My style of driving includes more of city and highway driving, which is just excellent with an auto.
I used to love the manual transmission as well as it gave me total control of gear change and something to do to keep my left hand and foot busy

that was until I started driving to the city and getting stuck in traffic.
In the end it is a matter of personal preference.
P.S. A friend of mine who also owns an xtrail, had his clutch busted after going off-road and towing a small boat for a lengthy trip. This was only after 600kms on the clock. It cost him $2,500 AUS to have the clutch replaced and nissan wouldn't do it under warranty, because they stated that he had abused the clutch

something to think about as well.