New 2009 Nissan Xterra [ 2008 , 2007 ]
Not Yet Ranked
Nissan Xterra - What the Auto Press Says
The Xterra's strengths are its strong off-road performance and a versatile cargo capacity. However, it doesn't match the car-like handling and ride of others in its class.
The 2009 Nissan Xterra is ideal as a tough, capable vehicle -- not a comfortable highway cruiser. For this year, it gets a slightly revised front end, standard side curtain air bags and new interior features. Auto reviewers praise the Xterra's rugged body-on-frame construction and powerful standard V6 engine, but those qualities don't translate well to on-pavement driving. "Its off-road orientation accounts for subpar ride comfort, and its backwoods-ready avoidance of luxury touches makes it seem relatively unrefined," says Consumer Guide. "Indeed, its main appeal is that rugged demeanor, cargo versatility, and youthful attitude."
Another drawback is that the Xterra claims the second-worst fuel economy of any small SUV. With gas prices reaching record highs, this contributed to a sales drop in 2008. However, if gas prices aren't one of your main concerns, it means that 2009 might be the year to get a great deal on the Xterra.
The Xterra comes in several trims -- X, S, Off Road and SE. All come in either two- or four-wheel drive, except the Off Road model, which is a 4x4-only vehicle.
- "Based on its excellent performance on- and off-road, it took first place in a comparison test." -- Car and Driver
- "Xterra's rough ride, dated interior, low gas mileage, and poor emissions ratings leave much to be desired." -- CNET
- "It offers distinctively aggressive looks, lots of power and a trip back in time before the car-based sport utility vehicle came along to dominate the market." -- Newsday
- "Nissan has built a sport/utility vehicle that's exactly what the customers want: It's rugged, versatile, fun, solid-looking, honest, and will take you and your gear anywhere you want to go -- without costing a fortune," says Motor Trend
Xterra Performance - NA
The 2009 Nissan Xterra is a powerful, off-road SUV, but ultimately falls short in its performance due to poor fuel economy, road noise, soft brakes and a truck-like ride. As Car and Driver says, "If you're looking for a wild child who loves to get dirty, the Xterra is an able adoptee." Continue with our full Performance Review to learn why test drivers love the Xterra's off-road abilities but complain about its on-pavement handling. continue
Xterra Exterior - NA
The 2009 Nissan Xterra gets a few tweaks to its front end and maintains its rugged form. "For 2009, both the Xterra and Frontier receive new front ends with revised grilles," says Car and Driver. "The tweaks are subtle, and all but the most hard-core Nissan truck fan will struggle to see the difference." Continue with our full Exterior Review to learn about some of the stylistic features reviewers don't like, including the rear door handles. continue
Xterra Interior - NA
The 2009 Nissan Xterra's cabin stands out for its spaciousness and practical features, including easy-to-clean rubber mats. Automobile Magazine says it offers "everything you need and nothing you don't." However, some reviewers find the interior boring and utilitarian. Continue with our full Interior Review to discover why one major media outlet calls the SUV a "sports locker on wheels." continue
Xterra Safety - NA
The 2009 Nissan Xterra does relatively well in federal government crash tests. It also offers several standard safety features, including front airbags and active front headrests that help prevent whiplash in the event of a collision. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn why some note visibility issues. continue
Xterra Reliability - NA
Nissan offers a standard three-year/36,000-mile warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review. continue