DAY 1: A FUEL-EFFICIENT
KICK OFF
When the invitation to drive the All-New Nissan X-Trail e-POWER from Brunei to Kuching on a single tank of fuel landed in my inbox, I couldn’t contain my excitement.
We gathered at the Boustead Sdn Bhd showroom in Kuala Belait, surrounded by the sleek X-Trails, our hearts racing with anticipation. With our luggage packed and a final safety briefing under our belts, the countdown began. A quick doa and a flag wave, and we were off.
Our journey started with a fill-up at Shell Petrol Station in Rasau, our tanks filled to the brim at 580 kilometres (km) with Shell V-Power, promising adventure. The nagging thought of whether we could truly make it to Kuching haunted us, but there was only one way to find out.
Over the next five days, we would put the Nissan X-Trail to the ultimate test, pushing its limits to see if it could live up to its reputation.
As the rain began to fall, our first major test began. Crossing the Bruneian and Malaysian borders, I marvelled at the X-Trail’s e-POWER system, which combined the smoothness of an electric vehicle with the power of fuel.
The e-4ORCE system’s grip and stability in the wet conditions were remarkable, turning our scepticism into awe.
Coffee Code Café provided a much-needed respite, and with 450km left in the tank, we were ready for the next leg. As we pushed through the rain-soaked roads to Miri, the X-Trail’s Rain Mode showed its prowess, ensuring we navigated safely despite the downpour.
The relentless rain and dim visibility tested our nerves, but the X-Trail’s performance remained steadfast.
Arriving at RH Hotel in Sibu, we were relieved to see the fuel gauge still at 397km – proof of the X-Trail’s efficiency. After a hearty dinner and reflections on the day’s trials, we prepared for the next challenge.
DAY 2: THE DRIVE TO KUCHING
Day two dawned early, with our alarms ringing at 5.30am. Breakfast at the hotel was a hearty affair, preparing us for the 400km journey to Kuching. With my fuel gauge not quite full, I opted to switch the X-Trail to eco mode, determined to stretch the EV battery as much as possible.
The first pit stop was at RRCC Mid Layar Betong, where we enjoyed a break and a reassuring 352km of fuel left. The journey continued through scenic landscapes to Petronas Serian, where we recharged with snacks and spirits high, fuel gauge showing 316km.
The final stretch to Kuching was a short 62km drive, with the sky darkening and rain threatening. Arriving at the Hilton Hotel with 237km left in the tank, we celebrated the completion of the challenge over dinner at Lapau. The day had been long, but the satisfaction of making it on a single tank was undeniable.
DAY 3: EXPLORING KUCHING
The third day began with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, featuring a variety of dishes and the famed Laksa Sarawak. Our itinerary included visits to two of Kuching’s top museums.
The Cat Museum, perched on a hill, delighted us with its feline-themed exhibits and panoramic city views. Next was the Borneo Cultures Museum, a sprawling five-floor marvel showcasing Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage and natural biodiversity.
Lunch was a satisfying spread, and then came the much-anticipated announcement of the road trip challenge winner. Maryani emerged victorious with a grand prize of BND1,000, topping all contestants with 314km of fuel left in the tank, while I secured third place with 237km of fuel remaining.
Suffice to say, I was amazed that every X-Trail made the journey from Brunei to Kuching on a single tank of fuel.
In a surprising twist, Maryani was challenged to push her car to 1,000km on a single tank. The competition became even more thrilling.
The day ended with a planned sunset cruise, but the weather had other ideas. Instead, we headed to Topspot Food Court for a seafood feast, turning a rainy setback into a culinary highlight. Despite the weather, it was a day full of memorable experiences and camaraderie.
DAY 4: BINTULU BOUND
Our departure from Kuching on day four took us to Bintulu, 618km away. We made a quick refuelling stop, and Maryani’s car was under a special test to see if it could surpass 1,000km on a single tank. The journey was scenic, with occasional stops for photos and a brief rest.
To our amazement, Maryani’s car reached 1,036.8km with 131km still left in the tank. We refuelled with the extra jerry cans and continued to Fairfield by Marriott Bintulu Paragon, arriving by 6pm. Dinner at the hotel was well-deserved, and we explored a nearby pasar, indulging in durian and local treats. The day was long but rewarding, filled with unexpected achievements and local discoveries.
DAY 5: THE FINAL STRETCH
The final day began with a relaxed 210km drive from Bintulu to Miri, marked by late checkout and a leisurely pace. The scenic drive was a fitting end to our adventure, and Miri greeted us warmly. A leisurely lunch and shopping at the mall provided a delightful change of pace.
The final hurdle was a traffic jam at the immigration checkpoint, but we made the most of the delay with shared snacks and stories. Crossing back into Brunei was a bittersweet moment, marking the end of an incredible journey.
Reflecting on the past five days, I felt grateful for the experience, the camaraderie, and the opportunity to test the Nissan X-Trail’s limits. Though I didn’t win, the adventure was its own reward, a testament to the spirit of exploration and the bonds forged on the open road. – Adeel Azman
