Malaysian Nissan brand custodian Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) has done it again. Rallying on in a pandemic-stricken market with a catalogue that could really use a boost from highly-anticipated products like the 2020 Nissan Almera, the company has launched yet another accessory package in a bid to uphold the popularity of an existing model. But this looks like a good one. 

The Nissan X-Trail Tuned by Impul is now an official product ever since the T32 facelift was launched last year. Naturally, it includes sporty-looking bits like an aerokit with two-tone Impul front and rear bumper inserts (with accompanying side skirts of course), a blacked out grille and even a split spoiler to add some zing to the tailgate. Inside, maroon Nappa leather is Impul's flavour of choice, as the crimson material adorns the seats, dashboard, arm rest and even the Japanese SUV's knee pads. 

As with many Impul products in the past, the additions do not stop at cosmetic upgrades. A set of 18-inch Impul Aura SX-50 wheels wrapped in Continental ContiMaxContact MC6 rubbers should return better grip handling over the stock setup. The X-Trail Tuned by Impul even gets sport springs for a sportier stance and driving experience. 

The factory-fitted Tuned by Impul package is currently offered for all four X-Trail models currently on sale in Malaysia for a RM11,000 premium. The range starts from the 2.0L 2WD, which is priced at RM139,632 after tax exemptions, followed by the 2.0L 2WD Mid (RM150,643), 2.5L 4WD (RM157,731) and 2.0L Hybrid (RM168,451). 

Alternatively, existing Nissan X-Trail owners have the option to purchase the accessories individually, with the Aerokit, 18-inch wheels, Continental tyres, Impul springs, rear spoiler and front grille going for RM5,600, RM5,800, RM2,800, RM1,100, RM800 and RM700 respectively. This puts the cost of a total retrofit at RM16,800 - substantially more than the premium the package commands for a new car purchase. However, the accessories are covered by a three-year/100,000-km warranty regardless of how they are purchased. 

It may not be for everyone, but we certainly appreciate the effort to add some character to the X-Trail's seven-seat practicality.