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 21 through 30 of 138.00
  • Cool one - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    Great looks and fun to drive off roads!!

  • So reliable - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I have had the Xterra since new and love it. I have had only one mechanical issue and that was the A/C TCA (thermal control amplifier)causing the a/c compressor to kick on and off. I changed it myself. I carry all my sporting goods in the back with plenty of space left over. Backseat passengers have plenty of legroom. The front seats are extremely comfortable for long trips. For those complaining of interior plastic, I use Aerospace 303 on all plastic surfaces and they all look new. The paint has looked great since day one. I upgraded the sound system as stock system was lacking. It is extremely cheap to maintain. Parts are dirt cheap for it.

  • Awesome!! - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I absolutely love my Xterra. Driving thru snow is now a breeze since I bought my Xterra. I love it!! Best vehicle I have ever owned. Highly recommend this vehicle.

  • 2002 Nissan Xterra - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    The perfect vehicle for me, its great on the beach, in the mud, or on the rough high terrain of the mountains. No matter where you are driving, it delivers the goods, comfort, quality, and durability. Now, here comes the best part, I recently totaled it while coming home from work one late evening. I hit a ditch head on at 50 mph, shortly after hitting a tree, and also flipped front over back. When the SUV finally came to a rolling stop on the roof, I unbuckled my seat belt and climbed out. I suffered only mild back pain from the accident. The frame and build of the Xterra saved my life. Soon after I bought a 2003 model, and I love it just as much as my original. - Thanks Nissan!

  • Inexpensive reliablility w/ personality - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I bought my 4x4 XE Xterra used in April 2002 w/13,000 miles on it, it had been a rental car. I now have over 90k miles and the truck is running solid, the engine and transmission feel tight and it still looks great. Ive hauled a 3500 lb trailer about 3k miles. I havent had a single problem with this truck. In my opinion the Xterra is the Civic of SUVs... its not the quickest or most swank but it holds its own especially for the price.

  • Thisrty machine... - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I bought the X new in 2001 - First S/C on the lot. I was impressed with the off-the-line acceleration and overall looks (drastic improvement over previous models). Overall it has been a good vehicle, performed beyond its means off road (Yes I do own another 4x4 to compare it to...) and has proved reliable in day to day use. I use it to tow a 4,500Lb boat on weekends - No sweat...until I try to pass a gas station. Best mileage to date 16mpg. Average 13mpg. Worst (towing) 9.8mpg. As well, power is great around town but trying to pass on the freeway does not net the same surge in acceleration. I look forward to the 2005s - MORE POWER !

  • Nice Looks but wish it had more power!! - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I just recently bought the Xterra and before had a Jeep Cherokee. I had gotten use to the 4.0L in the Cherokee. Moving down to the 3.3 170 hp was quite a shock. I love the look of the Xterra and hear it is very reliable. Overall I enjoy the Xterra. Very rugged look!

  • Excellent 4x4 - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I bought the X because the price point was very attractive to me. I didnt want to spend 30k on an SUV that I intended to take off road. I have been in the mud, sand and dirt and this truck out preformed my friends Mitsu Montero and a Toyota Tacoma..both cost considerable more...I didnt get the supercharger but it would be nice to have, dont know if its worth the xtra dough....

  • Its been a ROCK - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    Gotta say this has been a solid truck. Bought new in late 02 and ever since my XT has been very reliable. Its no-nonsense and does what its supposed to do. Off-roading is a blast when we ride the dunes on the beach and it is a tank in the snow. My 1st set of tires got 50+ on them and 2nd sets of Coopers got 60+. It hauls everything Ive needed - dishwashers, plywood, kids, vacay stuff to the brim. Love my XT but may have to part with it soon since I need something that will tow a heavier boat! Great truck, so long as its properly maintained.

  • Solid SUV - 2002 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I bought this 4wd truck used almost 4yrs ago, it was a rental car for the first 13k miles and I have added 57k miles. This SUV is solid... Im not a gentle driver and have had no problems. This truck has endured 2.5 yrs of city driving (short trips and lots of stop and go) and over 4k miles pulling a 3500lb trailer. Its not the most luxurious truck, its no speed demon and the mpg isnt any better than a Chevrolet Tahoe v8... but to me the cost of ownership, reliability and functionality does the trick!

Nissan Xterra Reviews By Year:
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