2002 Nissan Xterra Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.31/5 Average
138 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Nissan's popular Xterra SUV receives a variety of updates for the 2002 model year. Front-end styling is updated, and the bulged hood hides a newly optional supercharged V6. Inside, there are revised gauges, seat fabrics, climate controls, two additional power points and a bigger glovebox. Also standard are dual-stage front airbags, rear child-seat anchors, variable intermittent front windshield wipers, a rear window wiper and a foot-operated parking brake. In terms of options, a new in-dash six-disc CD changer is available on XE Xterras and standard on SE models. Nissan has also made the sunroof optional instead of standard. Finally, as a tribute to dedicated Xterra owners, an Enthusiast Package is available only on XE V6 four-wheel-drive models. It includes ceiling tie clamps, a first aid kit, a tilt steering wheel, foglights, front tow hooks, map lights, a limited-slip differential, manually locking hubs and rubber floor mats.

Pros:
  • Rugged looks and the off-road capability to match, lots of room inside.
Cons:
  • Uncomfortable front seats, poor on-road ride and steering, four-cylinder and normally aspirated V6 lack power.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 138.00
  • 14 - 19 mpg NOT! - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    We just bought our XTERRA and the amount of gas it goes through is a disappointment. Nissan declares 14-19 mpg and were lucky to get 14 mpg highway. Very disappointing. The engine also takes 10-15 minutes to warm up, which means that Im driving with the engine screaming at 4000 rpm (62 mph). When the engine is finally warm, Im still at 3000 rpm (62mph). This cant be good. We are looking to trade it in after 4 months.

  • nissan exterra disposable - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    after 5 yrs of maintenance, it now needs 5000$ worth of work just to be safe on the road. I have kept it maintained...costed more than my toyota tundra which is older and still like brand new

  • cheap seats - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    Ive had over 20 different cars and these are by far the WORST!!!! The foam is like a marshmellow. If I would have known how bad I would have never bought the car and probably will not keep the car...I cant believe the in dash ash tray is an accessory so you have a hole in the dash that looks like crap.. Im really disapointed with this car, I know its not a luxury car but please....Oh by the way this is not my first suv its my third...

  • A No-Frills,True Off-Roading Vehicle - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    This is a fully capable, no-frills off- roading truck. The 4WD transmission is amazing; This truck can handle almost any off-roading obstacle you throw at it. The low-end torque really comes in handy when traversing perilous trails (I was able to haul my friends Wrangler out of a good one and a half feet of mud without straining my truck at all). The lack of power in the 4th and 5th gears is to be expected. This is a real truck, not a Ferrari; so dont expect to be winning races with it anytime soon. I would recommend this vehicle to those who want a fully capable off-roader to get them to where they need to go.

  • Alright 4 the $$$ - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I was thrilled when I purchaced a new sporty 2002 yellow Xterra. The exterior is awesome and the ride is so smooth. I am however very displeased with the lack of power and poor gas mileage.

  • AN SUV that is really an SUV - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    While primarily driven by my wife, I have had the opportunity to spend 8 weeks as the primary driver. The vehicle looks great, is made well, and has a fantastic audio system. Its an SUV in the truest form of an SUV. This vehicle is not for everyone, but we have enjoyed it for what it is. A truck based...SUV.

  • Love this SUV - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    This SUV is tight. This truck does not lack power even though its a 4 cylinder. Its geared for low end power so its not too much fun in stop & go but Ive proven it can climb hills with ease. Excellent control in snow without 4x4 also. I was already rear ended and slambed into the car infront of me. The car behind went under and only damaged the bumper. This truck is SAFE! I owned a Nissan truck before this with the same 2.4 motor for 12 years. 198,000 miles and it was a performer with no problems. Sold it to a friend and he loves it.

  • Nissan Xterra - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    fun to drive; always

  • A Great Choice - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    This is a fun, large car to drive, in a good price range

  • Good and Bad - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I love the truck, but I am disappointed with what I have. The design of the interior and the exterior are great, very distinct. But the quality of the Nissan is disappointing. There are so many little things that have gone wrong that you wouldnt expect in todays market. The gas mileage is aweful, but the ride is comfortable on the parkway.

Nissan Xterra Reviews By Year:
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