2004 Nissan Xterra: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Altered wheel sizes for some models constitute the 2004 change of note for Nissan's youth-oriented SUV. Xterra's lineup starts with a price-leader XE model with a 143-hp 4-cyl engine, manual transmission, and rear-wheel drive. XE V6 and SE versions use a 180-hp V6. A 210-hp supercharged V6 powers top-line SE S/C models. Automatic transmission is optional on the XE V6, standard on other V6 Xterras. V6 models offer 2-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive that must be disengaged on dry pavement but includes low-range gearing. ABS and air conditioning are standard. For 2004, XE V6s trade 16-inch wheels for 15s, while nonsupercharged SEs get 17s instead of 16s. The 4-cyl XEs retain 15s and SE S/Cs continue with 17s. Head-protecting curtain side airbags are optional for any Xterra. The antiskid/traction-control system that is optional for automatic-transmission 4WD V6 models includes a tire-pressure monitor. Nissan begins selling redesigned 2005 Xterras in calendar '05 with new styling, larger dimensions and a larger, more-powerful V6. The underskin structure and many components will come from Nissan's redesigned 2005 Pathfinder SUVs.