2009 Nissan Xterra: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Nissan Xterra gets slightly freshened styling. This off-road-themed midsize SUV is smaller and less costly than Nissan's Pathfinder. Xterra seats five versus Pathfinder's seven. X, S, Off-Road, and SE trim levels are offered. All have a 261-hp 4.0-liter V6 engine. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard on X, S, and Off-Road. A 5-speed automatic is optional on those models and standard on SE. Maximum towing capacity is 5000 lb. X, S, and SE offer rear-wheel drive or part-time 4-wheel drive that should not be left engaged on dry pavement. The 4WD system includes a low-range gear for off-roading. Off-Road models are 4WD only. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Off-Road models have all-terrain tires, skid plates, locking rear differential, and, with automatic transmission, hill ascent and descent control.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to eight-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buy choices are the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Kia Borrego, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Venza. The Hummer H3 adds a crew-cab pickup truck bodystyle for 2009, while the Dodge Durango adds a gas/electric hybrid model.