Nissan Xterra

Overview: Is the Nissan Xterra a Good SUV?

Combining truck-based durability with a trail-busting attitude, the body-on-frame Xterra carved out a niche for adventure-minded SUV shoppers from 2000-2015. Unlike soft-road SUV pretenders, the funky two-box Xterra delivers legitimate four-wheeling chops courtesy of robust construction and an available locking rear differential. This rugged Nissan targets young outdoor enthusiasts needing to haul wet dogs, muddy boots, and camping gear far off the beaten path. Discontinued when demand shifted towards unibody crossovers, the unapologetically utilitarian Xterra left big tire tracks still cherished by loyalists today (a yellow Nissan Xterra is especially treasured). The exterior shares underpinnings with the Nissan Frontier pickup and competes against the Toyota 4Runner.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Nissan Xterra cars for sale.

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Related: How Long Do Nissan Xterras Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

Key Features

The Nissan Xterra offers:

• Body-on-frame compact SUV
• Five-door body style
• Inline four-cylinder and V6 Xterra engines (varies by year)
• Manual or automatic transmission
• Rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive

Trims

Nissan Xterra trims ranged from the basic X, S, and XE editions to the mid-tier SE and SE S/C levels, plus the activity-centered Off-Road and PRO-4X grades.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

Smooth driving isn’t the focus of the Nissan Xterra; all-terrain capability is. With up to 10.1 inches of ground clearance plus low-range gearing for 4WD models, the rugged Xterra can tackle trails and overland expeditions that ordinary crossovers couldn’t dream of. Technology is straightforward, but the more recent model years were available with the Nissan Connect infotainment system for navigation and other features. Cargo space is generous thanks to a tall cabin and fold-down second-row seats.

How It Drives

Peppiness (or lack thereof) directly reflects the engine bay. Models equipped with four-cylinder engines provide adequate acceleration, but the V6 makes the Xterra come alive.

Safety

In specific crash tests, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) rated the Nissan Xterra four to five stars (good to great).

Reviews

According to Kelley Blue Book, Nissan Xterra car reviews average 4.5 (out of 5.0). Reliability and performance are two owner-preferred characteristics.

Learn More: Here Are The Nissan Xterra Years To Avoid and The Best Year for the Nissan Xterra

FAQs

Why was the Nissan Xterra discontinued?

Nissan ended Xterra production after 2015 amid slowing sales as traditional midsize SUVs lost ground to modern crossovers. Its body-on-frame platform was also dated.

What is the average life of a Nissan Xterra?

Properly maintained used Nissan Xterras can easily reach 200,000 miles. The truck-based design, rugged components, and simple drivetrain translate into impressive longevity.

Are Nissan Xterras expensive to repair?

The body-on-frame Xterra can be prone to rusting, which is costly (or impossible) to fix. However, most maintenance items like brakes, filters and hoses remain affordable. As with any older vehicle, condition plays a major role in repair costs.

What is the common problem of Nissan Xterra?

According to carcomplaints.com, the most common Xterra-related problems center around the transmission and radiator.

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