2008 Nissan Xterra Review

The Xterra is a compact SUV that debuted in 2000. Streamlined for utility, the Xterra is aimed at outdoor enthusiasts. The interior was redesigned in 2002, and the second generation followed in 2005. It has won several awards, including Motor Trend's "Sport Utility of the Year" in 2000 and 2006.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

While other manufacturers have twisted and contorted the SUV into everything from a minivan replacement to a status symbol, the Nissan Xterra takes it back to its roots. It's everything an SUV is supposed to be: as capable off road as it is on, plus able to haul everything you need. If it's comfort or fashion you're after, look elsewhere; the Xterra is a pure SUV for true adventurers.

What's New For 2008:

The rearview mirrors has been updating with automatic dimming, external temperature display, and a compass. Bluetooth is now available as an option. The S now includes a cargo net and step rails.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 Nissan Xterra price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:
$21,540

Rebates & Incentives:
yes

Seats:
5

Gas Mileage:
16/20

Engine:
4.0L V6

Horsepower:
261@5600RPM

Torque:
281@4000RPM

Transmission:
6 Speed Manual

Drive:
FR/RWD

Fuel Capacity:
21

Fuel Type:
gasoline

Basic Warranty:
36/36000

Powertrain Warranty:
60/60000

Rust Warranty:
60/Unlimit

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Xterra 4 stars for mechanical and design quality, and 3 stars for performance. The first generation had issues with engine noise and misfires, water leaks, vehicle noise and poor grounding. It was recalled seven times. The current generation has had only one issue involving separated seat links. No recalls have been issued. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Xterra earned 4 stars in government frontal crash tests and 5 stars in side tests. In IIHS tests, it earned "Good" for the front and side, and "Poor" for the rear. Anti-lock brakes, brake assist and stability control come standard. Side airbags are optional.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Strong off-road prowess
+ Practical
+ Pure SUV, devoid of fluff

Cons
- Less comfortable on-road manners
- Plasticky interior
- Lacks side airbags

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Toyota FJ Cruiser costs about a grand more, but includes an automatic transmission and side airbags. However, it has about 60 less hp. The Honda Element costs several thousand less and includes side airbags, but has a four-cylinder with 100 less hp, and lacks 4WD. The Chevrolet Trailblazer has over 20 more hp, but costs a few thousand more.

What Others Are Saying:

"I wish I had the opportunity to take the Xterra on a serious off-road adventure, like down a riverbed or up a mountain. I'm sure it would have tracked like a mountain goat, and I wouldn't have noticed the backaches...As it was, my primary experience was on-road, and in that situation the Xterra was lacking in physical amenities." - The Auto Channel

"Save one-trick ponies like Jeep's Wrangler, the base part-time 4WD Xterra is the truest distillation of SUV spirit currently available. By avoiding MSRP-bloating garnish (as on our SE), not only do extremists save surplus coin for off-road skateboards, they hew Xterra down to its gloriously uncompromised essence. In the end, this Nissan proves that only added toys befitting a hardnosed, take-no-prisoners SUV are the ones clamped to the roof." - The Truth About Cars

"The merits of the Xterra are many, and there's something to be said for rugged looks, truck heritage and refined road manners. It may not have "nothing you don't" need anymore, but the Xterra is a unique vehicle that's worth a look." - About.com

Read more about the 2008 Nissan Xterra at the Nissan manufacturer web site.

Published on Thursday, January 31, 2008 - Email to a friend

Copyright 2006 BuyingAdvice.com, INC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten, or redistributed.

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What do you think?

Road Test: Nissan Xterra
Read User Comments

Few SUVs are used for what they are designed for. Very rarely do soccer moms in their Suburbans engage the four wheel drive and leave the comfort of paved roads behind. The Nissan Xterra is intended for off-road use and demands to be treated that way. With exceptional ground clearance, optional skid plates and declination assist, the excellent Xterra is a beast ready for whatever comes its way.

Chosen Model Trim:

The '08 Xterra comes in six models; the X, S, and SE all of which come with either a two or four wheel drive. All models come with a standard 4.0L. V-6 that throws 281 foot pounds of torque to the wheels and accomplishes a very respectable 261 horsepower. You get to choose between a five speed automatic or a six speed stick. I tested the S trim with 4WD out.

Exterior & Interior features/comforts:

The Xterra is a rugged vehicle from all angles. The round headlights give way to a shortened hood, steep front windshield, very noticeable roof rack system and boxy rear end. The fender flares add quite a bit of style (and usefulness), plus the rear step located just behind the rear wheel is a much-needed design feature for true outdoorsmen. The inside is a bit more utilitarian. The interior cargo room-and there is a lot of it-is ideal for camping expeditions or hauling a family of five comfortably. The under floor storage is great and the tie down hooks on the floor and ceiling are essential for securing cargo.

Driving Experience:

The Xterra was a blast to drive. The 260+ horsepower proved more than enough for any traffic situation at hand. The ride was stiff, but gave the Xterra a true badge worthy of any off-road vehicle. I was comforted by the fact that I could go anywhere in this vehicle and that the stiffness was necessary for being able to take on rocks, gravel, tree roots and whatever could come my way. It was stiff for a reason. Someday I plan on taking it off-road for a whole day, just so I can really challenge the vehicle.

Summary and My Opinion:

The Xterra prices in between $20,000 and $28,675. The S model that I drove had a sticker of $25,580. That price included four wheel drive, step rails, and 16" rims. The 4.0L engine achieves 18 city and 22 highway miles per gallon. Competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the GMC Envoy better heed warning; the Xterra is an off-road machine not be reckoned with. After all, the Xterra comes with a first aid kit, ready to bandage the wounds dealt to the egos of any SUV in its class.

User Comments

2008 Nissan Xterra Review discusses a true off-road machine.

Thursday, July 24, 2008

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2008 Nissan Xterra Review