What Is It?
2005 Nissan Xterra
What's Special About It?
Bigger and more powerful than its predecessor, the second-generation Xterra is looking to bolster its image as a rugged no-nonsense SUV. It maintains body-on-frame construction but it now rides on a modified version of the F-Alpha platform found underneath the full-size Titan truck and Armada SUV. Although the overall length is nearly identical to the previous model, the wheelbase is up by two inches for more interior room and a less choppy ride. It's also 2.5 inches wider and nearly two inches taller than its predecessor making it one of the larger SUVs in the compact class.
While the previous model was plagued by a lack of power, the 2005 Xterra gets a major boost of power in the way of a 4.0-liter V6 that will produce more than 250 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. Two transmissions will be offered: a five-speed automatic and a six-speed manual. Four-wheel-drive versions will use a multimode transfer case that offers two Hi/Auto/4Hi/4Lo modes for maximum flexibility in varying conditions. Four-wheel antilock disc brakes are standard while an electronic stability control system is offered as an option.
Interior space is up thanks to the stretched exterior dimensions. Nissan claims that front seat leg- and headroom are up by nearly an inch while rear-seat passengers enjoy over 3.5 inches of additional legroom and more than two inches of extra headroom. New interior features include adjustable tie-down hooks in the cargo area, increased storage up front and an optional 300-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system. Safety conscious buyers will be happy to note than in addition to the optional stability control system, the Xterra also offers front-seat side-impact airbags as well as side curtain airbags that protect both rows of seats.
What's Edmunds' Take?
More power, more room, more features — what's not to like? Sure, it may not be the stripped-down, back-to-basics SUV that the original was, but the second-generation Xterra still has the same rugged construction and unique styling that made the first model so popular in the first place. If you're looking for a compact SUV that's more than just a car on stilts, the Xterra is one of the best prospects going. — Ed Hellwig
2005 Nissan Xterra
What's Special About It?
Bigger and more powerful than its predecessor, the second-generation Xterra is looking to bolster its image as a rugged no-nonsense SUV. It maintains body-on-frame construction but it now rides on a modified version of the F-Alpha platform found underneath the full-size Titan truck and Armada SUV. Although the overall length is nearly identical to the previous model, the wheelbase is up by two inches for more interior room and a less choppy ride. It's also 2.5 inches wider and nearly two inches taller than its predecessor making it one of the larger SUVs in the compact class.
While the previous model was plagued by a lack of power, the 2005 Xterra gets a major boost of power in the way of a 4.0-liter V6 that will produce more than 250 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. Two transmissions will be offered: a five-speed automatic and a six-speed manual. Four-wheel-drive versions will use a multimode transfer case that offers two Hi/Auto/4Hi/4Lo modes for maximum flexibility in varying conditions. Four-wheel antilock disc brakes are standard while an electronic stability control system is offered as an option.
Interior space is up thanks to the stretched exterior dimensions. Nissan claims that front seat leg- and headroom are up by nearly an inch while rear-seat passengers enjoy over 3.5 inches of additional legroom and more than two inches of extra headroom. New interior features include adjustable tie-down hooks in the cargo area, increased storage up front and an optional 300-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system. Safety conscious buyers will be happy to note than in addition to the optional stability control system, the Xterra also offers front-seat side-impact airbags as well as side curtain airbags that protect both rows of seats.
What's Edmunds' Take?
More power, more room, more features — what's not to like? Sure, it may not be the stripped-down, back-to-basics SUV that the original was, but the second-generation Xterra still has the same rugged construction and unique styling that made the first model so popular in the first place. If you're looking for a compact SUV that's more than just a car on stilts, the Xterra is one of the best prospects going. — Ed Hellwig
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