2003 Nissan Xterra: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Optional head-protecting curtain side airbags and an antiskid system headline 2003 additions to Nissan's youth-oriented SUV. Xterra's price-leader XE model has a 143-hp 4-cyl engine, manual transmission, and rear-wheel drive. Mainstream XE V6 and SE versions use a 3.3-liter V6 that gains 10 hp for '03. A 210-hp supercharged 3.3 powers top-line SE S/C models. All V6 Xterras offer 2WD or 4WD that must be disengaged on dry pavement but includes low-range gearing. Automatic transmission is optional on the XE V6 and standard on other V6 Xterras. ABS and air conditioning are standard. SE S/Cs have 17-inch wheels, the others 16s or 15s. Curtain side airbags are newly available for any Xterra. The new antiskid system is optional for automatic-transmission 4WD V6 models and includes traction control and a tire-pressure monitor. Also for '03, V6s add standard driver-seat height and lumbar adjustments, and SE models offer a new "Rugged Leather" package option with suedelike interior accents.

COMPETITION

New to the class this year, Honda Pilot has taken the lead as a Best Buy. It offers ample cargo space, seating for eight passengers, all-wheel drive with a locking rear differential for added traction, and above-average refinement. Toyota Highlander is our other Best Buy, chosen for its on-road competence, convenience, and attractive pricing and design.

Our Recommended choices feature more-traditional SUVs: Ford Explorer, GMC Envoy, and Toyota 4Runner. For 2003, all now offer optional V8 engines and--with the exception of 4Runner--three rows of seats.