Nissan Xterra Pros and Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision
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Launched in 1999, the Nissan Xterra quickly became a favorite in the SUV segment, thanks to its adept handling of off-road adventures and daily commutes. Its robust body-on-frame construction was a key selling point, especially for those seeking a vehicle sturdy enough for challenging terrains. The Xterra also catered to outdoor enthusiasts, offering a spacious cargo hold and practical roof rack, making it a versatile choice for various users.
Unfortunately, the Nissan Xterra was discontinued after the 2015 model year. During the discontinuation of Xterra, consumer preferences shifted towards more fuel-efficient, crossover-type SUVs. Plus, the Xterra wasn’t exactly the best-seller Nissan hoped it would be.
If you’re interested in the Xterra, you should know what to expect as a used car buyer. So today, we rounded up the Nissan Xterra pros and cons to help you determine if this SUV is the right fit for your needs.
What We Love: Nissan Xterra Pros
If you’re looking for a rugged SUV, the Xterra has plenty of good qualities to offer:
Legitimate Off-Roader
The Nissan Xterra stood out in the SUV market due to its exceptional features and design qualities explicitly tailored for rugged terrain. Its robust body-on-frame construction provided the durability and strength required to tackle challenging off-road conditions. The vehicle’s high ground clearance and sturdy suspension system allowed it to navigate obstacles easily.
Additionally, its four-wheel-drive capability ensured reliable traction on various terrains, including muddy tracks and rocky paths. Furthermore, the Xterra had a powerful engine that offered ample torque for steep inclines and demanding trails.
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Impressive Longevity
The Xterra is one of those vehicles you drive “till the wheels fall off,” thanks to its impressive life expectancy. On average, a Nissan Xterra can last for about 200,000 miles. However, with consistent and diligent maintenance, some Xterra vehicles can even surpass the 300,000-mile mark. This robustness is a testament to its durable build and design. To ensure that your Xterra stands the test of time, it is crucial to follow the suggested maintenance schedule, which includes timely oil changes. Even Xterra models with higher mileage can remain in excellent condition when well cared for.
Solid Reliability
If you’re considering purchasing a Nissan Xterra, it’s good to know that it has a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0, according to RepairPal. This rating puts it above average when compared to other compact SUVs. The annual repair costs for this vehicle are likely to be lower than average at around $514, which is a plus for potential owners.
However, you might need to take your Xterra for unscheduled repairs about 0.3 times per year, similar to other vehicles in its class. Additionally, there is a slightly higher chance (14%) of encountering a major repair. This means that while the Xterra is generally reliable and cost-effective for maintenance, it’s important to be prepared for the possibility of an occasional big-dollar repair.
Versatile Cargo Solutions
The Nissan Xterra is an excellent choice for those who prioritize cargo versatility. The cargo area is spacious, offering 36.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and expanding to 65.7 cubic feet with them folded down. It is also ingeniously designed, featuring a convenient storage box underneath the load floor, perfect for essentials like the included first-aid kit in the S and Pro-4X trims.
These models further enhance utility with an Easy Clean cargo area with practical tie-down cleats, ceiling hooks, and optional sliding cargo-net dividers that make organizing your gear a breeze. For extra-long items, the Pro-4X features a fold-flat front passenger seat, ensuring everything fits snugly. Additionally, the robust roof rack, equipped with an optional gear basket and crossbars, is ideal for transporting oversized or dirty items, making the Xterra a true champion in cargo handling.
HOW LONG DO NISSAN XTERRAS LAST?
Unfortunately, over the years, there were many discontinued Nissan models that we lament to this day, including the underrated Nissan Xterra. If you’re interested in this old Nissan model, you’re probably asking: how long do Nissan Xterras last?
Strong Resale Value
The Nissan Xterra is highly regarded for its strong resale value, especially for models manufactured between 2009 and 2015. This SUV is known for its toughness and reliability, making it a popular choice in the used vehicle market. Xterra models from these years are considered some of the best value-packed and dependable used vehicles, often available at attractive prices. Buyers can frequently find great deals on these models, sometimes for under $10,000. Its ability to maintain its value over time, with its sturdy build and long life, makes the Xterra an excellent option for those seeking a dependable and reasonably priced used SUV.
What We Don’t Love: Nissan Xterra Cons
On the other side of this Nissan Xterra pros and cons roundup, here are the potential drawbacks of the Xterra:
So-So On-Road Handling
The Xterra has a 4.0-liter V6 engine with sufficient torque for off-road adventures and highway merging. However, its on-road handling leaves something to be desired. The Xterra’s sturdy, body-on-frame design and long travel suspension, primarily intended for off-road capability, result in a less comfortable ride than typical crossover SUVs when driving on pavement. Also, handling tight turns can feel unwieldy, and the steering could be faster.
Outdated Features and Tech
If you’re considering purchasing a Nissan Xterra, be aware of its limitations in terms of technology and features. The Xterra has been discontinued, and as a result, advancements in automotive technology have left the Xterra in the dust. You may find the Xterra’s infotainment system and safety features outdated compared to newer SUVs. Modern vehicles typically provide better connectivity, advanced driver aids, and more luxurious interiors, all of which the Xterra lacks.
Poor Fuel Economy
If you find yourself complaining about today’s gas prices, the Nissan Xterra might not be for you. This model only manages about 18 MPG combined, with 16 MPG in urban settings and 22 MPG on highways. This performance significantly trails behind modern SUVs, typically offering better fuel economy.
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Nissan Xterra Pros and Cons: Is This Compact SUV for You?
That wraps up our highlight of the Nissan Xterra pros and cons. In a vacuum, the Nissan Xterra is a solid compact SUV that offers impressive off-roading chops, solid reliability, and substantial resale value. However, keep in mind that it’s a discontinued model. As such, the Xterra will likely feel outdated, especially with regard to modern creature comforts and tech.
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