A traditional SUV with off-road credentials, the Nissan Xterra offers five-passenger comfort, ample cargo space and a certain rugged simplicity that sets it apart from the crowd. If you're looking for a comfortable family vehicle, this isn't it.
Every Xterra now comes with Bluetooth phone and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. Top-line models also get standard heated seats (cloth or leather) and integrated smartphone apps.
Every Xterra is powered by a 4-liter V6 that produces 261 horsepower. The standard five-speed automatic transmission can be replaced by a six-speed manual on four-wheel drive models.
The Xterra is available in three trim levels:
The base X isn't exactly loaded with amenities. It comes with rear privacy glass, roof rails, a cloth interior with split-folding rear seat, Bluetooth phone and a six-speaker sound system with CD. Four-wheel drive is optional.
The S adds alloy wheels, a front tow hook, additional driver seat adjustments, a first-aid kit, a cargo organizer and an upgraded sound system. As on the X model, four-wheel drive is an optional extra on the S.
This is where off-road aficionados will start. A Pro-4X carries standard four-wheel drive, hill-start assist and descent control, off-road tires and suspension, navigation, a rearview camera, heated front seats, upgraded interior trim, and a nine-speaker Rockford Fosgate sound system with smartphone apps, voice controls and Internet radio. The Leather Package adds a leather upholstery and a passenger setback map pocket.
While the X and S are available with four-wheel drive, only the Pro-4X is intended for heavy-duty off-road adventures. Even if you don’t need all that capability, the Pro-4X’s nicer interior and additional equipment make it altogether more enjoyable to drive.
