The Nissan Xterra is a proven SUV built with purposeful running gear, a comfortable cabin and plenty of standard amenities, making it one of the most desirable vehicles in its segment.
Designed to be a "Toolbox For Your Life," Nissan's Xterra is the result of significant research and development. Part of the initial R&D process found Nissan staffers going to trailheads, surfing spots, campgrounds and the like to watch people using their sport utility vehicles.
Surprisingly, most of what they saw was people with wagons, trucks, vans and sedans - not SUVs - ingeniously outfitted with bungee cords, racks and compartments.
Feeling that most SUVs were priced too high or lacking versatility, Nissan brought the durable, versatile and affordable Xterra to market.
And unlike most of its competitors, Xterra is not built on a modified car platform. Instead, the 2008 Xterra features a fully boxed, all-steel ladder frame derived from Nissan's full-size Titan pickup and Armada SUV - a credential that adds to Xterra's proven off-road capabilities.
Xterra is a bit on the heavy side, tipping the scale at just over two tons, but it also features a 5,000-pound towing capacity.
I like Xterra's signature exterior styling cues like its tallish stance, large flared fenders and available tubular roof rack with covered cargo basket. Xterra's front and rear overhangs are short making it quite capable for crossing rough terrain.
Xterra's 5-passenger cabin is rather comfy and I like that the cargo area features a multitude of utility hooks for keeping your gear tied down. Securing bike racks and other accessories or gear is made easier with an available adjustable channel system in the cargo floor.
There are host of convenient storage bins throughout the cabin and audio buffs will enjoy the available 300-watt Rockford Fosgate system.
The 2008 Xterra is offered in four trim levels; X, S, Off-Road and SE. The Xterra Off-Road comes only as a 4X4, while the X, S and SE are offered in both 2WD and 4WD configurations.
Xterra X, S, and Off-Road can be had with either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. The top-line Xterra SE comes only with an automatic.
Powering all Xterra models is a sophisticated 4.0-liter V-6 engine with gobs of power. Rated at 261 horsepower and 281 pound-feet torque, the engine is an increased displacement version of Nissan's VQ engine series found in the 350Z, Maxima and Altima. It features a longer stroke (than the 3.5-liter version) and has been specifically tuned for SUV and truck applications.
Whether you opt for a 4X2 or 4X4 Xterra, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) is standard. 4X4 models add a part-time 4WD system with 2WD/4HI/4LO modes and electronically controlled transfer case.
The Xterra Off-Road model adds two advanced off-road technologies - Hill Descent Control (HDC) and Hill Start Assist (HSA) - as well as an electronic locking rear differential.
My Xterra tester was an Off-Road model with an automatic transmission. The Off-Road model obviously delivers the most truck-like ride of all Xterra models, but it was still pleasing enough and likable around town.
My only disappointment was the fuel economy. Xterra's large V6 and heavy curb weight are tough on fuel consumption. Still, for those with a thirst for outdoor activities, Xterra is a top choice for getting you and your gear there.
With an entry price of $21,130, the base Xterra X comes well-equipped with items like 4-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, power windows, locks and mirrors, remote keyless entry, cruise control, and 60/40 split fold-flat 2nd row seats.
Stepping up to the Xterra S ($22,880) adds aluminum wheels, step rails, first aid kit, cargo net, driver's seat lumbar support, roof rack cross bars, gear basket, unique seat fabric, Easy Clean Cargo surface and C-Channel cargo floor with four moveable hooks.
Xterra Off-Road models (starting at $26,330) feature fog lamps, black bodyside molding, fold-flat front passenger seat, unique blue cloth seat fabric, sunglass holder and leather steering wheel. Additionally, Xterra Off-Road models include 265/75R16 BF Goodrich Rugged Trail T/A off road tires, rugged 16-inch wheels, Hill Descent Control and Hill Assist, electronic locking rear differential, high performance Bilstein gas-filled shocks and oil pan, fuel tank and transfer case skid plates.
The top-line Xterra SE ($28,630) features standard 5-speed automatic transmission, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 265/65R17 BF Goodrich Long Trail tires, trip computer, step rails, body-colored outside mirrors, fog lamps, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, XM Satellite Radio and a Rockford Fosgate audio system featuring a 6-disc in-dash CD changer, eight speakers plus subwoofer, steering wheel audio controls, speed-sensitive volume, and MP3 playback capability plus auxiliary jack for an iPod.
2008 Nissan Xterra Off-Road Engine: 4.0-liter (261 hp) V-6
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Drive type: 4X4
Fuel economy: 16 city/20 highway
Base price: $27,330
As tested: $30,590 (includes $705 for destination)
Web site:
www.nissanusa.com