Is a used Nissan Xterra a good choice?
For off-road enthusiasts looking for a good SUV that's not too expensive and not too new, that they won't mind shaking and dirtying, there's nothing like a used model.
While rummaging through inventories, we recently came across a Nissan Xterra, a vehicle abandoned at the end of 2015 and currently very hard to find on the market. Could it be that its owners love it so much they don't want to part with it? And would it be a good deal to jump on one of the rare examples available?
The Xterra, Nissan's most adventurous SUV ever offered in North America, has been a loyal customer for off-road excursions in a vehicle with a family-oriented vocation, even if fuel economy isn't quite up to scratch (over 14 L/100 km).
Its 4.0-liter V6 is the same that powered the Frontier pickup and Pathfinder SUV of the time. Power is rated at 261 hp and 281 lb-ft of torque, all controlled by a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.
We're talking about a very solid and competent vehicle, with ground clearance and angles that are advantageous for venturing off the beaten track. On the other hand, it's less rosy on the road, where the lack of comfort as well as road and wind noise are abundantly felt. In other words, the Xterra is suitable for people who frequently ride in the countryside and off-road. Even then, considering the firmness of the suspension, it's a big think-tank.
Simply put, this big Nissan cube (not to be confused with the Nissan cube!) lacks the refinement and sophistication to be enjoyable in the city or as a daily driver. After all, its design and chassis date back to 2005. Ditto on board, where you have to accept a rudimentary décor and concentrate on the utilitarian aspect.
The list of safety recalls issued for the Nissan Xterra is quite long, but much shorter from 2010 onwards. And that's just as well, because older models are hard to find. In terms of reliability, let's just say that the mechanics are a big problem: injectors, timing chain, sensors, valves, radiator, transmission and others have all had their share of misfires. The model years to avoid, here again, are older (2004 to 2008).
Finally, it's quite possible that the car you find has a lot of miles on it. This is not so serious in itself, but a thorough inspection is vital to identify weak points and parts that need replacing. Store carefully, even if this type of vehicle is more of an emotional purchase than a rational one.
