2002 Nissan Xterra: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The lower-priced of Nissan's two midsize SUVs gets new front styling and an available supercharged V6 for 2002. Xterra aims for younger buyers than the Pathfinder. Its base XE model comes only with a 143-hp 4-cyl engine, manual transmission, and rear-wheel drive. XE V6 and top-line SE models have a 170-hp V6. XE S/C and SE S/C models have the 210-hp supercharged V6. V6 versions come with manual or automatic transmission and 2WD or 4WD. Their 4WD must be disengaged on dry pavement but includes low-range gearing. ABS and air conditioning are standard. New for 2002 is a 4WD XE V6 off-road Enthusiast Package that eliminates the side step rails and adds a limited-slip differential, manual locking hubs, and front tow hooks. All '02 Xterras have a "power-bulge" hood and a revised dashboard. SE S/Cs have 17-inch wheels; other Xterras get 16s or 15s, depending on model and engine.

COMPETITION

This is by far the hottest market segment right now. Crowded with more than 20 vehicles, midsize SUVs vary in size and type but nearly all seat five adults and offer V6 or V8 engines. Our Best Buys are the Acura MDX and Toyota Highlander. Both offer competence, convenience, and attractive pricing and design. They lack serious off-road 4WD systems, however.

Our Recommended choices feature more-traditional SUVs: the Dodge Durango, which offers optional third-row seating; the top-selling Ford Explorer; the utilitarian Nissan Xterra; and the refined GMC Envoy. If you don't venture off-road too far take a look at the car-based Lexus RX 300 as well.