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Nissan Xterra - What the Auto Press Says

The 2009 Nissan Xterra ranks 11 out of 23 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 56 published reviews and test drives of the Nissan Xterra, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

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. For other off-roading options with better on-road rides, also consider the Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer and Suzuki Grand Vitara.

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 some of the worst fuel economy numbers of any small SUV. With gas prices reaching record highs last summer, this contributed to a sales drop in 2008. However, if the price of fuel isn'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.

If you're interested in the Xterra, be sure to check out this month's Nissan Deals, where we've done the research to find you the best discounts and incentives on a new Nissan.

• "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
• "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." -- Motor Trend
• "The 2009 Nissan Xterra fits the role of adventure sherpa to a "T." This trail-capable and highly configurable hauler was made with fun-seekers in mind. But unlike some off-road-capable trucks and SUVs, the Xterra is also at home in urban settings, with a fair amount of suspension compliance for a comfortable ride." -- Edmunds  

Xterra Performance - 7.9 (Good)

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." Test drivers love the Xterra's off-road abilities but complain about its on-pavement handling. continue

Xterra Exterior - 7.7 (Good)

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." Some of the stylistic features reviewers don't like include the rear door handles. continue

Xterra Interior - 7.6 (Good)

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. Still one major media outlet calls the functional SUV a "sports locker on wheels." continue

Xterra Safety - 7.5 (Good)

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. But note that some reviewers mention visibility issues. continue

Xterra Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)

The 2009 Nissan Xterra reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Nissan offers a standard three-year/36,000-mile warranty. continue