Since 2007, the two organisations have worked together to identify the top new cars best suited to the unique demands of towing – and the Nissan X-Trail triumphed in the 1700-1899kg category this year.
New X-Trail boasts a muscular design and advanced technologies which deliver an effortless EV drive feeling thanks to e-POWER technology and Nissan's twin-motor e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive system.
Composed of a fuel-efficient petrol engine and a lithium ion battery working together to power an electric motor, e-POWER is unique. The result is a responsive and quiet driving sensation without the need to plug in to recharge.
Available as a five- or seven-seater, it offers a convenient option for days out with extended family or friends. As an electrified seven-seater SUV, it is unrivalled in its segment.
The Tow Car Awards judges were certainly impressed, Steve Huntingford, Editor, What Car? said: "Sometimes, it pays to be different, with the Nissan X-Trail's unusual e-POWER set-up helping to make it a hugely capable tow car.
''The instant torque it delivers means hill starts are easy. Plus, the X-Trail combines punchy performance with impressive high-speed stability, and it remained very composed in our emergency lane change test, quickly pulling the caravan straight again."
Andrew Humberstone, Managing Director, Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd. commented: ''Naturally we are delighted that the new X-Trail with e-POWER has been recognised in the prestigious Tow Car Awards for 2023.
''We are well aware of X-Trail's excellent towcar credentials of course, but to have its abilities evaluated and praised by two such highly respected organisations as What Car? and the Camping and Caravanning Club is hugely rewarding.
''With room for up to seven people and this gold star for its towing abilities, X-Trail owners can look forward to a summer of fantastic adventures ahead.''
X-Trail is one of Nissan's most successful global vehicles, with sales in more than 100 markets achieved over more than 20 years. The fourth iteration of the vehicle, launched last year, draws from well-established DNA that runs through all three of the previous generations.