20 Pros and Cons of Nissan Xterra 2023

Table of Contents

Pros of Nissan Xterra

Off-Road Capabilities: The Nissan Xterra was highly regarded for its exceptional off-road capabilities. Its robust construction, high ground clearance, and advanced four-wheel drive system made it a reliable choice for tackling rough terrains and challenging trails. For instance, the Xterra’s optional PRO-4X trim came with features like an electronic locking rear differential, Bilstein shocks, and skid plates, enhancing its off-road performance.

Reliability: The Xterra had a reputation for being a reliable vehicle. Its durable components, sturdy frame, and reliable drivetrain allowed it to withstand demanding driving conditions. Many Xterra owners reported high mileage without major mechanical issues, showcasing the vehicle’s longevity and dependability.
Versatile Cargo Space: With its two-box design and stadium seating in the second row, the Xterra provided versatile cargo space. The rear seats could be folded flat, offering a large and practical cargo area. This made the Xterra ideal for transporting bulky items, outdoor gear, or even for camping trips.

Towing Capability: The Xterra had a respectable towing capacity, making it suitable for hauling trailers, boats, or other recreational vehicles. It was capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, which was advantageous for outdoor enthusiasts or individuals with towing needs.
Distinctive Design: The Xterra had a unique and rugged appearance that appealed to many SUV enthusiasts. Its boxy shape, aggressive front grille, and pronounced wheel arches gave it a distinctive and adventurous look, setting it apart from other vehicles in its class.
Good Visibility: The Xterra offered excellent visibility from the driver’s seat. Its elevated driving position, large windows, and minimal blind spots allowed for a clear view of the surroundings, enhancing safety and providing a commanding driving experience.

Strong Resale Value: Due to its popularity and reputation, the Xterra maintained a relatively strong resale value. This was advantageous for owners looking to sell or trade in their vehicles, as they could expect a reasonable return on their investment.
All-Weather Capability: The Xterra’s four-wheel drive system and rugged construction made it suitable for all-weather driving. Whether it was snow, rain, or slippery conditions, the Xterra provided enhanced traction and stability, ensuring confidence and control on the road.
Spacious Interior: The Xterra offered a spacious interior, accommodating both passengers and cargo comfortably. The second-row stadium seating provided ample legroom and headroom for passengers, contributing to a comfortable ride even on longer journeys.

Community and Aftermarket Support: The Xterra had a dedicated community of enthusiasts and a thriving aftermarket support network. This meant that owners could easily find resources, advice, and aftermarket parts to personalize and enhance their Xterra’s performance and appearance.

Discontinued Model: The Xterra was discontinued in 2015, which meant that finding a brand new Xterra could be challenging. Although used models were available, potential buyers seeking the latest features and technology would need to consider alternative SUV options.
Outdated Technology: As a vehicle that ceased production in 2015, the Xterra may lack some of the latest technological features found in newer SUVs. Advanced driver-assistance systems, touchscreen infotainment systems, and connectivity options may be limited or absent in older Xterra models.

Fuel Efficiency: The Xterra’s fuel efficiency was not its strong suit. With an average fuel consumption of 17 miles per gallon in the city and 20 miles per gallon on the highway, the Xterra fell behind more fuel-efficient SUVs on the market. This could be a drawback for those seeking a vehicle with better gas mileage.
Rough Ride: Due to its off-road-oriented suspension and construction, the Xterra could provide a somewhat rough and bumpy ride on paved roads. The stiffer suspension and emphasis on off-road capability could lead to a less comfortable driving experience for passengers, especially on longer trips.
Limited Engine Options: The Xterra offered only one engine option, a 3.3-liter V6 with 180 horsepower. While this engine provided decent performance, it may not have been as powerful or fuel-efficient as some of its competitors’ offerings, limiting choices for buyers with specific engine preferences.

Lack of Advanced Safety Features: Compared to newer SUVs, the Xterra might lack some of the advanced safety features and driver-assistance technologies. Features such as blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, or forward collision warning systems were not commonly available in earlier Xterra models.
Limited Interior Refinement: While the Xterra provided ample space, the interior design and materials may not have offered the same level of refinement as some of its competitors. The overall fit and finish, as well as the quality of interior materials, might not have been on par with more upscale SUVs.
Poor Rear Visibility: Although the Xterra had good visibility from the front, the rear visibility was hindered by its large rear pillars and small rear window. This could make parking and maneuvering in tight spaces more challenging, requiring extra caution and reliance on mirrors or parking sensors.

Narrow Seating Configuration: The Xterra’s stadium seating in the second row, while providing good visibility, limited the seating capacity to five passengers. This could be a drawback for larger families or individuals needing additional seating options.
Higher Maintenance Costs: As an older vehicle, the Xterra might require more frequent maintenance and repairs compared to newer models. This could result in higher maintenance costs and the need for finding specialized mechanics or sourcing rarer parts for specific repairs.