Overview & Reviews

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.

• Rugged looks and the off-road capability to match, lots of room inside.

• Poor on-road ride and steering, four-cylinder and normally aspirated V6 lack power.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 153.00

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  2003 Nissan Xterra - 2003 Nissan Xterra
  By leester420 - April 3 - 10:00 am

  Really fun suv to drive. Love the fosgate system. Looks really tough. Well built vehicle.

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  Good SUV if you likem - 2003 Nissan Xterra
  By evilone - October 15 - 1:13 am

  All my ratings were based off of the several SUVs and trucks that Ive driven from an Explorer, Expedition, Tahoe, Denali XL, Jimmy, Ranger, F150, C1500, and CRV. The Xterra is its own vehicle and thats why it shines. The mileage and highway driving are not fun. I fear merging with this car b/c of the lack of power. But the sheer massive truck presence of the Xterra makes up for it. The hard engine sounds and road noise from crusing at 65mph sometimes does bother me especially when I see my gas tank meter drop. Going w/o a LSD was a big mistake. Interior is shabby but its a truck what do you expect. Overall a good performing truck however, Im starting to realize I like small cars.

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  Baterra - 2003 Nissan Xterra
  By BatmanYZFr1 - July 16 - 10:00 am

  I didnt shop thinking about the xterra. All I knew is that I wanted a SUV. The saleman said, "what about this?" All I knew about it is that it that integrated first aid kit-cool. I bought it, they threw in a trailer hitch and I was out of there. I now absolutely love this machine. I aim for bumps and dirt whenever the chance arises. My mountain bike accents the xterra so well.I thought about the jeep liberty afterwards, but that thing is just a little too "cute" for me. just need more power. When I want it to move, which it does, I feel that the engine is working too hard and I think I can see my gas needle falling. everything else is great.

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  Cool but needs metal - 2003 Nissan Xterra
  By Almaguer - May 28 - 10:00 am

  I like the Xterra, its a life style choice.

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  Nissan is a name you can trust! - 2003 Nissan Xterra
  By Darren - May 8 - 12:43 pm

  This is Xterra #2 for me. My first was a 2000 XE V6 which I thoroughly enjoyed. I had it around two years and put around 30,000 miles on it before I needed money for getting married and buying a house. Now a couple of years later Ive replaced my lost treasure with a 2003 SE 4x4 V6. Theres really no difference inside except for the gauges and radio package. The Fosgate sound system is awesome and the sub really hits nicely. The transfer case shifts nice and smooth with easy transistions between 2 and 4 wheel. This X has really lived up to the expectations and quality that I know to expect from Nissan.

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  Awesome Off Road - 2003 Nissan Xterra
  By bigutpile - April 16 - 10:00 am

  I have not gotten stranded anywhere Ive gone off road. The clearance is 10.3 inches (tallest in its class). Xterras have an excellent approach angle. The fuel mileage is not bad (18.5)for the weight:engine size ratio. Get the SE/SC model if you can cough up the cash. Plenty of leg room for all 5 (five) passengers and room for lots of gear (for 2-3 people). Roof rack is sturdy with lots of optional attatment available from YAKIMA.com Audio equipment is awesome. A/C and heater work great. There is lots of room in the fender wells for big meats and turning radius is tight. Test drive one and see for your self, not just on the pavement either.

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  Fun to drive, need gas tanker to follow - 2003 Nissan Xterra
  By Ducati Racer - September 20 - 10:00 am

  We waited for the supercharged version to come out and are very glad we did. We picked up the electric blue, stnadard for the family and to tow my ducati on an open trailer for racing. In texas the roads are fast, so 80mpg is pretty normal and no problem with the trailer and loaded with gear. Gas milage is another issue. I get 120- 140 miles on a tank and 9mpg when towing. Ouch! Price was great for what we were looking for as well.

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  Great SUV - 2003 Nissan Xterra
  By RLF06 - September 20 - 9:46 am

  I bought this SUV to be able to get up the hills around here (VA) in the snow. Now have 91,000 miles on it, it has been great both off road, and in reqular use. Get 18.5 mpg in mostly highway driving. This truck is fun to drive with the 5-speed manual, and it does everything I expected. I have had no problems and would get another one in a heartbeat.

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  nissan x-terra xe 2003 - 2003 Nissan Xterra
  By reina - September 14 - 10:00 am

  the nissan x-terra was the best car that i have bought so far. its depedable fun to drive. i love making long trips with my nissan. what i specially love its that its high, and lets me see how the traffic is infront of me. i recommend everybody that is looking to buy an s.u.v. to really take under cosideration the nissan x-terra.

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  Its awesome! - 2003 Nissan Xterra
  By George S. - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Ive only owned my new Xterra for a few weeks so far. But, Ive been looking at them for over 6 months now. The Xterra is great looking, and very fun to drive. Im new to suvs and trucks, but Im sure this is a typical feeling truck based suv. The steering is very numb, but again, I figure that is normal. Freeway driving is much more comfortable than expected.