The T30 series X-Trail was unveiled at the September 2000 Paris Motor Show. It uses the Nissan MS/M&S/FF-S platform, shared with the Almera and the Primera. In the United Kingdom and Australia, the X-Trail was launched in October 2001. In June 2003, Nissan gave the car an interior and exterior facelift.

There were 3 radio systems used across the T30 range. Models with navigation can be replaced but the screen remains in place.