Overview & Reviews

The Nissan Xterra is a traditional midsize SUV with seating for five and serious off-road capability. Thanks to stout body-on-frame construction shared with Nissan's Frontier pickup, the Xterra is a beast on the trail and can tolerate a fair amount of abuse. The downside is that this Nissan lacks the on-road polish of car-based crossover SUVs you might buy instead.

The Xterra debuted for the 2000 model year. Later Nissan Xterras are similar in appearance and personality to the early models but have a slightly longer wheelbase, a roomier interior, more power under the hood and a few extra features. If you want a reasonably priced off-roader and find the Jeep Wrangler too crude for everyday driving, the Xterra is worth a look.

User Reviews:

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  Xterra, safe, reliable TRUCK - 2002 Nissan Xterra
  By Bobmazda - August 7 - 10:00 am

  As with many trucks the consideration of height and roll over has to be considered. I gave the Xterra the hard test and it passed as well as did well in ratings. Driver error, drivers thinking they have a MAC truck to push others around and maneuver in traffic like a Miata ISNT the Xterra. Drive carefully and youre fine! Having said that, the Xterra is awesome....DONT BUY A MAZDA TRIBUTE, I OWNED A 2001 LEMON LAW JUNK.

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  Buy this SUV - 2004 Nissan Xterra
  By Pat - August 4 - 9:33 pm

  This is my 2nd Xterra. First one was 2wheel drive, this one is 4 wheel drive. Looks like major changes to exterior of the 2005 models. I dont know about them, but I have been very happy with my 2003 and 2004. Its supposed to be marketed to kids but Im 50 and lovin it. Dont be afraid to buy this SUV. Its just as sexy as a Toyota and more dependable than a Chevy, and $5000 less than either one. Shop at the last of the month and add factory incentives, you could bring one of these 4X4s home for around $21000. I did.

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  Great choice - 2002 Nissan Xterra
  By XterraOwner - July 31 - 10:00 am

  I bought this vehicule several months ago and have been extremely happy with it so far. Before the purchase I spent about 3 months doing some pretty extensive shopping around. In the end, I bought it for several reasons: A high reliability rating by consumers and magazines alike, its ability to tow heavy loads, its flexibility in use (large cargo area and seating area, and because I found it to be one of the nicer looking mini SUVs on the market.) I get constant positive feedback on its looks, ride (despite it is based on a truck platform) and flexibility of use.

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  Still love my X! - 2004 Nissan Xterra
  By MTNDD - July 26 - 5:40 am

  I bought a new 2004 Xterra SE 4WD over 2.5 years ago. I still own it and drive it part-time. So this is a retrospective review. Overall, Im happy with this Xterra. Ive driven to rugged areas and didnt worry about the Xterra being able to get me through. The engine reliability has been perfect. Have had only minor cosmetic and noncritical problems. The Xterra makes you want to roll down the windows and cruise along, which is what I do in mild weather. I drove my Xterra from Oklahoma to Colorado to California and back, just cruising along enjoying the scenery. It was not an uncomfortable trip. Ive had more comfortable vehicles but this was a great trip in the Xterra.

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  My Xterra rocks! - 2008 Nissan Xterra
  By Ken - July 20 - 8:46 am

  I have owned everything from a Toyota Corolla to a BMW. As I have gotten older practicality and reliability are huge factors in my decision making now. The Xterra is the best midsize SUV on the market. It is also the best value. Do your own research and see for yourself. Depending on where you are in the country you should be able to get a new one at or under invoice if rebates are included. Major improvement over the old body style and engines.

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  The X-terraThe Ultimate Off-Road Vehicle - 2002 Nissan Xterra
  By jjkrush - July 19 - 2:00 am

  The Nissan X-terra XE is the best value if you are going to invest in a midsize SUV. I personaly recommend this SUV to anyone who wants to go off road, Its the best one there !!!

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  GREAT SUV - 2003 Nissan Xterra
  By Shawn Uda - July 19 - 2:00 am

  Great SUV. Good looks, ride and acceleration. Not a bank buster at the gas station.

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  Great All Around Vehicle - 2003 Nissan Xterra
  By bstakes21 - July 13 - 2:00 am

  I had my Xterra for about a week now, and I absolutely love it. Good on-road and great off-road hanlding. Some of us SUV buyers actually dont mind the "truck like" ride. Let the soccer moms drive the cute utes, but if you want a great looking vehicle, which is a blast to drive, this is the choice for you.

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  Absolutely wonderful SUV - 2003 Nissan Xterra
  By joshua - July 13 - 2:00 am

  I have had three other SUVs, and this one tops them all in performance, comfort and reliability!!!

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  A nice truck based SUV - 2010 Nissan Xterra
  By Hoss - July 11 - 12:23 am

  I did a lot of research before buying the Xterra, I looked a the FJ , the Wrangler, as well as some trucks. The X has the perfect blend of creature comforts and ruggedness. I traded an Audi for the X, and I do miss some of the luxury, but the X makes up for it in other ways. The gas mileage is OK, I get 13-15 in town, and 19-20 on the freeway. The seats are leather in the SE, but they are low grade leather and not heated. The stereo sound good, better than the Bose unit in my old Audi. Its very easy to see out of, and my kids think its great to sit up high. Im glad I bought the X, The Portable GPS is great, better than built in units.