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 61 through 70 of 153.00
  • 2003 Nissan Xterra is a winner - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    This was the first time I bought an SUV.My first choice was a Hummer but the price was too high for me. My second choice was an Xterra. I bought this vehicle because I believe it delivers what it claims to. I enjoy driving it a lot but the front seats are too small and not comfortable as comfortable as they should be. The fron seats leg rooms are not sufficient. The engine could have used much more HP. 189 HP is too weak for the weight of this SUV. Fuel consumption is very high for a vehicle of this size. So far I have had one recall and two minor service works done. I am told that 2005 model is a much improved vehicle. Will I buy another one? Yes,I will.

  • BAD MILAGE 10 MPG CITY- SUPER CHARGED - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    2002 6 cyl. Super Charged. Specs say 15/18 est. milage. I get 10 mpg and 7 mpg towing. The service department said everything is within specs. Did I get a lemon? I am under the 12/12000. Domestic v8s get better milage than this. This is the 4th Nissan I have owned, and the last if this isnt resolved. I love the Xterra, this is the second one I have owned, but the milage is KILLING ME!

  • x-terra - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    It is a great SUV. It rides really smooth and gives you a lot of neat features...but it still feels sporty.

  • Great Car - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    This was my first new car that I bought and I love it. It handles awesome especially in the winter, and its factory rack is great to hall your skis on the top!!

  • ALMOST perfect - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I like the style of the Xterra..it is fairly comfortable and I enjoy the ride. I do however miss the LITTLE things that my Maxima had..the Xterra has no drivers side vanity mirror, the passenger one doesnt have a light. I miss having a power/heated seat which is not an option on the Xterra. I miss the cass/cd combo and the light in my glove box that the Maxima offered. Other than those little things I am very pleased with the vehicle.

  • Great Vehicle - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I drove a Jeep Wrangler for the past several years and I was worried about how I would like this type of vehicle since I was used to a small rugid vehicle. I am so happy that I decided to get the Exterra. It is an awsome car with a great ride and it handles beautifully. I would buy this car again in a second.

  • GREAT SUV - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

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

  • Great All Around Vehicle - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    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.

  • Absolutely wonderful SUV - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

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

  • 03 Nissan Xterra SE S/C 4wd - 2003 Nissan Xterra
    By -

    I bought my Xterra 2 months ago and I absolutely love it. I just happened to find an atomic orange one, at first I wasnt so sure about the color but after a little while it grew on me and now I even love the color.

Nissan Xterra Reviews By Year:
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