Summary
If you’re after a vehicle that can handle off-road driving and has plenty of cargo space, the Nissan Xterra is an excellent choice. Its five-passenger capacity also makes it suitable as a family vehicle, although drivers have noted that the SUV doesn’t handle particularly well on standard roads—this is a machine built for the outdoors and off-roading.
Many praise The Nissan Xterra’s high towing capacity, and the GPS docking bay is a nice touch. Although discontinued, the 2015 model is still competitive with similar vehicles and is often a highly cost-effective option.
Safety
The Nissan Xterra comes with five airbags as standard. Both generations—the first being 2000-2004 and second 2005-2015—of the vehicle offer the following safety features:
- Electronic stability control—a computerized system that improves stability by monitoring and correcting the car’s traction
- Child safety locks so children can’t accidentally open the car doors
- Traction control, which helps to stop your wheels from skidding when braking
- Four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS), which help you stay in control in case of an emergency stop
Xterras old and new perform well in side impact safety tests. The Pro X4 trim comes with a rear camera to help with parking, as well as Hill Start Assist to get you going on steep slopes.
Interior
The interior is functional and frill-free but spacious. While some drivers find the seating configuration a little low, controls are easy to reach and intuitively placed. Six stereo speakers offer enjoyable sound quality, and clever under-floor storage areas reinforce the Xterra’s focus on practicality over form.
As this is typically an off-road vehicle, the lack of luxurious features often goes unnoticed among drivers seeking rugged utility.
Technology
The car stereo in older Nissan Xterras does a respectable job, most notably due to well-placed speakers. The S trim in recent editions from around 2015 come with the NissanConnect infotainment system, which provides access to a number of entertainment options like:
- Satellite radio, which offers a wide selection of music
- USB port for charging electrical devices
- Hands-free texting and smartphone app connectivity
If you opt for the Pro 4X trim, you’ll also get GPS as a standard feature. Models as old as 2007 have a nine-speaker audio system with MP3 compatibility, an auxiliary jack to connect your device, steering-wheel controls and optional satellite.
Space
There’s ample head and legroom for passengers and drivers to sit comfortably, although the seating quality isn’t well suited for long journeys, according to some.
The vehicle can hold up to 66 cubic feet of cargo once the rear seats are folded down, ideal for accommodating camping and other outdoor gear. Should you need to bring along heavier cargo, the Xterra can tow up to 5,000 pounds. Because of this, the Xterra is generally better suited for transporting cargo over passengers.
Comfort
Heated front seats come with some upgraded trims, and leather in the top Pro X4 trim helps make long journeys more comfortable. As for handling, expect a capable off-road vehicle that’s slightly awkward on traditional roads. Many drivers recommend the 4.0 L V6 engine for driving over rough terrain.
