* Click HERE to see a video on the Nissan Xterra *
Power and presence
Back in 2000, Nissan introduced their most capable and versatile off-roader yet, the all-new Xterra. Sharing many of its components with the Frontier pick-up, the Xterra's biggest obstacle was the 170 hp 3.3L V6, also found in the Frontier, Pathfinder and the Quest minivan. The lack of real go from the engine, a weight of 1 800 kg coupled with the aerodynamics of a brick wall made their presence felt at the gas pump. Normal driving would return consumption numbers close to 19L per 100 km. Along with a facelift and improved interior in 2002, Nissan supercharged the 3.3L V6 for a total of 210 hp.
First introduced at the 2004 New York Auto Show, the redesigned 2005 Xterra now has a more modern look, many more ponies and a few more tricks up its sleeves.
A base Xterra S retails for $32,898 and a top-of-the-line SE has a suggested price of $37,498. We tested the Off Road model with the Automatic transmission with an asking price of $36,998.
Exterior styling
The Xterra is very square and boxy; the fender flares, the doors and even
the windows share a similar square shape. There is little doubt when looking at the Off Road Xterra that dirt, mud and sand are its elements. It has huge Rugged Trail BFGoodrich tires, 242 mm of ground clearance and a front bumper and grille that looks like it has an integrated pushbar. Those that thought that the old Xterra was robust-looking will be enamoured with the 2005 version as it pushes all the right macho buttons.
Amongst the Xterra's interesting features are the rear bumper side steps and a useful latchable ventilated box integrated with the roof rack.
Interior styling
The Xterra's dashboard is very chunky, disappointingly assembled with cheap hard plastics, however oddly enough it works. The front seats offer limited comfort. The upper lumbar support, even when the adjustment is backed off, is too pronounced. The seat cushion is a little short and lateral support is lacking, especially for those who will be experiencing it with heavy off roading. The material used for the seats seems durable although it will require frequent vacuuming as sand and dirt will
accumulate in the little divots.
The HVAC knobs are large rotary knobs with finger indents that almost make them look like gears. The Rockford Fosgate 8-speaker plus subwoofer sound system is powerful but the sound lacks clarity and richness.
The cargo area of the Xterra is laden with hooks and clips to tie down just about everything including the kitchen sink. The floor is made out of hard plastic that is supposed to be easy to clean and it also features a hidden compartment. I additionally like the fact that there is a first aid kit integrated in the door.
Power and presence
 |
First introduced at the 2004 New York Auto Show, the redesigned 2005 Xterra now has a more modern look, many more ponies and a few more tricks up its sleeves.
A base Xterra S retails for $32,898 and a top-of-the-line SE has a suggested price of $37,498. We tested the Off Road model with the Automatic transmission with an asking price of $36,998.
Exterior styling
The Xterra is very square and boxy; the fender flares, the doors and even
 |
Amongst the Xterra's interesting features are the rear bumper side steps and a useful latchable ventilated box integrated with the roof rack.
Interior styling
The Xterra's dashboard is very chunky, disappointingly assembled with cheap hard plastics, however oddly enough it works. The front seats offer limited comfort. The upper lumbar support, even when the adjustment is backed off, is too pronounced. The seat cushion is a little short and lateral support is lacking, especially for those who will be experiencing it with heavy off roading. The material used for the seats seems durable although it will require frequent vacuuming as sand and dirt will
 |
The HVAC knobs are large rotary knobs with finger indents that almost make them look like gears. The Rockford Fosgate 8-speaker plus subwoofer sound system is powerful but the sound lacks clarity and richness.
The cargo area of the Xterra is laden with hooks and clips to tie down just about everything including the kitchen sink. The floor is made out of hard plastic that is supposed to be easy to clean and it also features a hidden compartment. I additionally like the fact that there is a first aid kit integrated in the door.