The Nissan Xterra is just a truck-based compact SUV built by Nissan. The Nissan Xterra shared a platform in addition to a top bumper, hood, A-pillar, windshield, and front doors with the Nissan Frontier pickup, which also shared its platform with the Nissan Frontier and Nissan Pathfinder. Xterra also had a generous ground clearance and approach/departure angles that made it ideal for tackling rugged terrains. The Nissan Xterra was noted for its off-road capability, with features such as a reinforced frame, skid plates, and an available locking rear differential for improved traction.
Adding 4WD reduces fuel economy to a mixed (15 city/20 highway) 17 mpg, no matter transmission choice. Rear-wheel drives S and both X configurations are automatic only. The Xterra RWD delivers an EPA-estimated value of 18 mpg combined (16 cities/22 highways). The Nissan Xterra all-wheel drive S and Pro-4X offer whether six-speed manual transmission or perhaps a five-speed automatic transmission. In the performance test, an Xterra 4WD with the automatic transmission accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds; this was average for a midsize SUV powered by way of a V6.
The front seats usually are comfortable and supportive, with available options for power-adjustable seats and heated front seats. Some models can also have a cargo organizer system for added convenience. A corner seats are generally foldable in a 60/40 split configuration allowing for additional cargo space. The rear cargo area typically features a flat load floor with tie-down hooks for securing cargo. The Xterra’s interior offers ample cargo space, which makes it suited to outdoor enthusiasts and those that need to transport gear. The 2023 Nissan Xterra typically features a seating capacity of up to five passengers with a 2-row configuration.
Standard interior features may include air-con, power windows, door locks, a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, and a simple speakers with a CD player and auxiliary input. The inside of the 2023 Nissan Xterra is made to be functional and utilitarian, with an emphasis on ruggedness and durability for off-road adventures. Some models can also have available features like a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. The Xterra typically comes with a straightforward and functional dashboard layout with easy-to-use controls.
The 2023 Nissan Xterra is popular among outdoor enthusiasts and those who sought a versatile and capable SUV for off-road adventures. Nevertheless, it remains a favorite choice among used car buyers that are looking for a capable and affordable off-road SUV. However, 2023 Nissan Xterra as a result of declining sales and changing market trends, Nissan discontinued the Xterra following the 2015 model year.
The Nissan Xterra is equipped with antilock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags, and side curtain airbags. In Edmunds’ brake test, an Xterra Pro-4X stalled at 60 mph at 139 feet; That’s a low performance by general standards, but typical for an off-road SUV with all-terrain tires. However, the seat/head restraint design is classified as marginal for longitudinal impact protection in rear impacts. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Xterra its highest score ever in moderately overlapping frontal offset and side-impact crash tests. The Pro-4X also offers Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist. For reference, the Jeep Wrangler recorded a similar stop of 140 meters. Xterra also had the second-highest acceptable score on the roof strength test.
The 2023 Nissan Xterra offered either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive and came with an option of a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine or even a better 3.3-liter V6 engine. Nissan introduced the second generation Xterra. It continued to supply rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive options and came with a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, providing increased power and performance compared to the first generation. It had a relatively basic interior but offered practicality and utility, with a spacious cargo area and numerous storage compartments. The 2nd-generation Xterra featured a more modern and refined design, with updated exterior styling and a better interior.