2005 Nissan Xterra Off-Road Edition Road Test

Because my Xterra came with the optional Off-Road Automatic Transmission Package ($1,800), such amenities as Hill Descent Control

The Xterra is fully equipped and ready to take to the trails at the flick of a switch, literally. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

(HDC), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and electronic locking rear differential were also added to enhance the stock model's bush bashing skills. There is also a set of skid plates located on the bottom of the radiator, oil pan, fuel tank and transfer case to prevent and/or lessen damage that can be incurred during trail sessions.

While I was on the gravel road, I decided to test out the four-wheel drive system. Not being the most fluent with off-roading vehicles, I referred to the owner's manual on how to properly 'play' with the transfer case. Swapping between rear-wheel drive and 4WD is easy, with just a flick of a switch. Shifting into 4-Low, the vehicle must be in neutral and stationary, just like the Kia Sorento, Jeep Liberty and the few others that offer true 4x4 capability. Although I was previously familiar with how to change transfer case settings, it never hurts to double-check with the owner's manual just in case.

Unfortunately, my avid and experienced off-roading friend was

The Xterra came with the optional five-speed automatic transmission, which is connected to Nissan's 4.0-litre, 24-valve, DOHC V6 engine. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

out of town the week I had my x-treme Xterra. Just my luck. But in retrospect, although it is fully equipped and ready to take to the trails at the flick of a switch, literally, many SUV owners rarely leave the concrete jungle for the real thing. But when nature calls, it's worth answering.

As for mostly being a city SUV while in my hands, I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the Xterra. As mentioned, it came with the optional five-speed automatic transmission, which is connected to Nissan's 4.0-litre, 24-valve, DOHC V6 engine which produces 265-horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 284 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm, the only engine available.