Nissan Xterra 0-60 times

The first Nissan Xterra debuted in 2000 and was available until 2004. Back then, it was a passable product not worthy of consumption. The idea behind the model was great, but the execution not so pleasing. It featured a powerless V6 that could hardly perform. Even after a supercharged, 210-hp, 12-valve, 3.3-liter was introduced in 2002, things didn’t change.

All but the Off-Road trims built in 2015 feature a rear-wheel drive. It makes sense for the Nissan to build the Xterra as a 4×4. The off-road–oriented setup works well with the electronic stability control, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control to keep the compact SUV in check. This gives the car great traction.

On bumpy roads, the Xterra behaves like a truck. The solid rear axle and independent front suspension give it pitchy and harsh maneuverability but ride well over most terrains. With truck-motivated underpinnings and a tall body, the Xterra handles surprisingly well. It is powered by a 4.0-liter V6 that churns up to 261 horsepower.

The engine comes with either a 5-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission. It’s capable of producing a lot of torque at low revolutions, making it powerful enough to jolt off the line and drive easily for towing purposes at high and low speeds. The automatic is an excellent highway cruiser while the manual features long shift throws. 

Despite the new Beacon Yellow color that tries to conceal the boxy and buff look, the Xterra still looks like a rugged SUV. Not much goes on both on the outside and on the inside. The interior features a tough upholstery, easy-to-clean materials, tie-downs, and more storage compartments. The instrument panel looks plasticky and a little outdated.

The Xterra has been built to withstand all forms of off-road travel. The interior can handle rough action while the oversized off-road tires show that the vehicle means business. There are no silly add-ons like what we see in other models. Its high stance, hanging spare at the rear and bulging fenders also work well to emphasize on the aggressive look. The Xterra can be made to look fashionable by adding brush guards and skid plates.

The Nissan Xterra is a traditional SUV. With car-like crossovers taking over the market, you might think that truck-based versions are now obsolete. The Xterra soldiers on, embodying the aspirated performance and handling. Its classic framed body design, fortified suspensions, 4-wheel-drive, low-range gearing and a high ground clearance make it an exceptional off-road beast. The interior offers a lot of utility with extra storage features and ample cargo and passenger space.

In today’s world, however, the Xterra is an old and crude Nissan.  Crossover SUVs now handle like cars. The Xterra is ponderous around corners and features hard interior plastics that are no longer used in newer models. It lacking hi-tech features means that its fuel economy falls quite behind. Nevertheless, buyers can enjoy dandy elements like a 5-inch central display, smartphone app integration and Bluetooth streaming audio in the 2015 S trim.