Almost every dog owner considers their pet to be part of the family, research has revealed. Furthermore, the vast majority say they would buy a new car which boasts more dog-friendly features.
To meet their demands, Nissan has unveiled a unique new model, the X-Trail 4Dogs concept, demonstrating that its flagship crossover is the perfect car for family adventures, particularly ones involving those with four legs.
The X-Trail 4Dogs might be the ultimate dog-friendly crossover, with a boot that’s been completely transformed to provide a bespoke travel space for up to two animals.
The crossover’s luggage compartment has been turned into a dog haven, 445 litres in size with a suite of innovative new features. Each has been carefully selected to benefit either the dog or the owner.
For example, the X-Trail 4Dogs has everything required to keep canines clean and comfortable after a long, muddy walk. Wash them off with the 360-degree pull-out shower, then swop for the dog dryer which delivers a jet of air to the wet fur. Pull out the slide-away ramp so the dogs can walk up into the boot (allowing owners to stay completely mud free), then turn on the integrated drying system which supplies warm air into the boot space.
The dogs can settle down into the luxurious bed, help themselves to a drink from the no-spill water bowl or take a snack from the smart dog-treat dispenser. Safety in transit is taken care of via a clip-on harness hook.
As they prepare to head home, the driver and co-driver can easily keep an eye on their pets using the innovative “dog-cam” technology.
It has been ingeniously integrated into the X-Trail’s NissanConnect infotainment system, allowing owner and dog to see each other via the 7-inch dashboard display and a new 10-inch LCD screen installed into the boot. The owner can also talk to the dog via an audio link to keep it calm.
Attachments for the shower and dryer are stored in a new pull-out utility drawer, easily accessible at the front of the boot. New side compartments have been added to ensure the area remains clutter-free, and can be used for storing treats, waste bags and a leash. The X-Trail 4Dogs also features a dog guard above the rear seats – a genuine Nissan accessory available for purchase.
Finally, the whole boot has been upholstered in premium wipe-clean leather, so any stray dirt or pet hair can easily be cleaned or removed.
The Nissan X-Trail 4Dogs has been designed with everyday practicality in mind. The dog bed, water bowl and treat dispenser are all easily removed to create a usable load space – for example, to carry shopping – when the dog is not with the family. The car’s spare wheel is also still accessible.
