2003 Nissan Xterra Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.33/5 Average
153 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Though the Xterra was updated just last year, Nissan has made further changes for 2003. Mechanically, the V6 has received a slight increase in power, and a stability control system (Nissan's VDC) will be a new option. Also for 2003, Xterra XE V6 models come with standard 16-inch alloy wheels and tubular step rails, and four new exterior colors are available, including Atomic Orange and Camouflage (limited and late availability). Inside, a driver seat-height and lumbar adjuster has been added to V6 models and a new roof headliner net (on nonsunroof models) and luggage side net have also been added, along with new metal ceiling tie-down hooks. A "rugged" leather package is now offered for the SE trim. Other refinements include a 300-watt rating for the Rockford Fosgate-powered eight-speaker audio system, an available tire-pressure monitoring system and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution. A heavy-duty alternator and dual 12-volt power outlets located in the engine compartment are also standard on SE trim.

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

User Reviews:

Showing 141 through 150 of 153.00
  • Xterra is perfect because.. - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    Xterra is perfect for a college kid. It looks cool, you can drive your friends around and you can do lots of stuff with it. It is designed to be rugged, and actually is. The only problem is gas effeciency.

  • The Xterra style - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    The Xterra is great, its like the design of a Lexus meets the versatility of a 4 Runner. Yet it is kinda small, it alows for a very fast, fun driving experence. I have the SE supercharged model, and let me tell you, I am never disapointed by the get-go power it has to offer. I live on a ranch and it has done good in traction and 4x4ing when it comes to the rainy season. The on the fly 4 wheel drive is a great addition when it comes to going up hill and not being able to stop to put your rig in gear.

  • Nissan Xterra - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I Find the Xterra is fun to drive. It outclimbs most other cars on the hills and find the it is a very smooth ride on the freeways... I find one piece of equipment missing in the vehicle though and that would be an oil pressure gauge.. I would much prefer this to the standard idiot light that usually tells you when it is too late. The service through the dealer has been outstanding too. I would buy another one if I ever need too. But I feel that my xterra and I will be together for a long time...

  • Mountain Goat - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I love this vehicle. Exterior silver w/brush guards, roof rack w/tray. Interior rare black leather interior w/heated seats. Kids love visibility from tiered second row. Rear compartment provides plenty of storage for baseball equipment, etc. Added Bilstein shocks to smooth ride. Adding catback & CAI to address substandard fuel economy & provide boost to slightly underpowered 3.3 liter engine. An issue, not a problem. Currently 20/17 mpg w/conservative use. Handles blizzards with confidence. Climbed NYC snowbank to create parking spot! Nissan should consider turbo diesel engine for this tree-climbing Billy Goat. Love it

  • Top Of The World - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I traded my 04 FX35 with 59k on a 5 speed,03 Xterra with 103k miles in March 2010. Did a major service with timing belt and the works then put a set of beautifully aggressive and very quiet Goodyear Wrangler Dura Trac 265/75/16 tires on it, drove it from Los Angeles to Moab,Utah for the Easter Jeep Safari. I completed the "Top Of The World" and "Fins and things" trails which are rated difficult with this awesome show room stock vehicle. This vehicle is absolutely impressive and I do not impress easily having owned a few "built" off road rides. Now back in L.A. and drive it daily about 50 miles in total comfort. I love my Xterra more than anything I have owned. Nissan has created a gem.

  • Great Vehicle! Fun to Drive - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I have owned my 2003 Xterra for a month and love it. I would highly recommend this vehicle for both on-off road conditions. Its a very comfortable ride. My wife was also impressed with the lack of blind-spots and ability to see on-coming traffic. The stereo system is fantastic and the interior is well designed. Overall, solid performance and comfortable. Have fun!

  • Nice SUV - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    This is my first SUV. After looking at several different models, I decided on the Xterra. One of the biggest selling points to me was its off road capabilities (getting up in mountains during ski season can be quite a challenge in a small sedan). The gas mileage could be improved, but so far I am averaging 18.5-19 between city and highway driving. Not to bad, but could be better. Have read several reports on wind noise, but you must realize that whenever you add a rack on top of a vehicle the size of the X, its going to make some noise. Had a ski rack on top of a Ford Focus - talk about noise!!!!! All in all, I love this SUV.

  • Want Another - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I love my Xterra and am passing it on to my newly licensed son. Im looking at another but want leather interior and was told by the dealer this was not possible!?! Ive had nothing but good luck with it and love driving it!

  • Best SUV in price range - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    Shopped around and researched the Internet for several months before purchasing my 03 Xterra. This SUV provided the most bang for the buck and looks great. Contrary to some other reviews, I really like the interior comfort. If you are looking for a truck type SUV, this is your vehicle. Well- built vehicle with lots of add-on’s for the $$.

  • Definitely up to expectations - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I have nothing but good things to say about my Xterra. Ive owned it for 3 months now, and the only thing I could complain about is gas mileage -- but I knew that going into the deal. The 4WD is terrific -- 12"+ snow banks were no problem at all this winter. The various tie-down points and metal hooks around the cabin are great for securing anything. And the heavy-duty rubber floor mats are a must-have -- theyve kept the dirt, salt, and sand off of the carpeted floors.

Nissan Xterra Reviews By Year:
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