A Used Nissan Xterra Is The Path To Off-Road Happiness

Used prices for the Xterra can range drastically depending on which generation and trim level you are shopping for. Early examples of the first-generation model can be found with high mileage (over 100,000) starting at under $2,000. Even low-mileage, pristine examples top out at around $10,000.

The second-generation models, which offer an assortment of visual and mechanical improvements over the original, can be found for under $3,000 with around 200,000 miles on the clock. Nissan offered an off-road trim level called the PRO-4X and these can range anywhere from around $10,000 up to around $30,000 for a low-mileage 2015 model. People have already realized how hard it is to find a late-model Xterra PRO-4X with a manual transmission and prices reflect it. These could even be borderline collectible in a few years.

In the Xterra's first two model years, Nissan offered two trim levels (XE and SE), each of which included a different engine. The SE utilized a 2.4-liter KA24DE four-cylinder producing 143 horsepower mated to a five-speed manual while the SE bumped it up to a 3.3-liter VG33E V6 producing 170 hp going out to a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. In 2002, the V6 was upgraded to 180 hp and a supercharged version called the VG33ER produced 210 hp.

The second-generation Xterra tremendously boosted performance with a 4.0-liter VQ40DE V6 sending 265 hp out through either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic. A rear locking differential was also offered to improve off-road performance.

By the end of the Xterra's life, it offered a few niceties like a touchscreen navigation system, Bluetooth, and even heated leather seats. But by and large, the Xterra's interior felt utilitarian with minimal technology, hard plastics, thick cloth upholstery, and simplistic climate controls. It wouldn't be too difficult to modernize an Xterra with an aftermarket Android Auto and CarPlay-enabled head unit but the cabin is mostly ideal for technophobes who prefer a more simplistic interior.

The Nissan Xterra was practical enough with 44.5 to 65.6 cubic feet of storage in first-generation models and 36.3 to 65.7 cubic feet of storage in the second-generation. Second-generation Xterras also included an uncarpeted cargo area (which is easier to wash down) with hidden storage underneath the floor and additional storage space built into the roof rack.

Nissan eventually discontinued the Xterra because of slow sales and new regulations for safety and emissions. First-generation models could only achieve 15/19 mpg city/highway with the supercharged engine and second-generation models were equally thirsty with 16/22 mpg city/highway.

It is sad to see body-on-frame SUVs like the Xterra fade into obscurity, leaving the Toyota 4Runner as one of the loan options in the segment. The Xterra has been rumored for a comeback for several years now but it seems like Nissan has other priorities. Perhaps when the next-generation Frontier finally arrives, Nissan will revive the Xterra alongside it. For now, a used Xterra is a great way to enjoy off-road fun on a budget.