The X-Trail is an excellent choice, and near the top of the list of cuv's capable in rough stuff. However, I felt they were overpriced and only the most costly LE model had traction/stability control available.
If you want a cuv that is engineered to handle rough stuff, then you can't beat a Suzuki Grand Vitara. The previous generation (pre-'06) was a true body on frame, about the size of a Forester, and made in Ontario. The XL-7 was a stretched, fancier version. Both commonly had low ranges, and an old-fashioned 4wd system that can't be used in awd mode. Which means they were no good for winter highway driving in mixed conditions. I rather like the older XL-7's, other than the crude 4wd system.
The current generation Grand Vitara is totally different and larger, made in Japan, and is probably the toughest of the current crop of cuv's. The previous generation Forester was more costly, but just not in the same class of vehicle for capability and interior size. The latest Forester is better for urban use, but isn't as off-road capable. Low range is standard or optional on the Grand Vitara, and they are always at least in awd mode. Though a perfectly good highway cruiser, it's not as cushy as a Rav4, CRV etc. The highway manners of the '09's were much improved over the '06-'08's. You simply can't find a more surefooted suv below $60,000, and the worse the conditions, the better it does. Compared to the Xtrail though, the Nissan gets much better mileage. Not to mention the drink coolers.
For the price of a good used cuv, you could consider a new Patriot. There is an off-road version.
The first generation Xterra was basically a first generation Pathfinder. Rather dated technology but quite rugged. The current Xterra is a shortened current Pathfinder, made in the US, big, and, I think, ugly. The middle generation Pathfinder is nice looking, built like a brick chicken house, and very capable, but has lousy mileage.
