2013 Nissan Xterra Review by Cars.com Staff

2013 Nissan Xterra

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2013 Nissan Xterra

Starting MSRP $22,940–$29,440


Expert Reviews

By Cars.com Staff

Cars.com National January 18, 2013

Vehicle Overview

Nissan's truck-based Xterra is geared toward young, active buyers — or those who want to appear that way. A standard 4.0-liter V-6 drives either the rear or all four wheels. Unlike some SUVs, it's a truly capable off-roader, with an available PRO-4X off-road edition. The other trim levels are X and S. The Xterra seats up to five people. Competitors include the Toyota FJ Cruiser and Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.

New for 2013

The midlevel Xterra S gets a new CD stereo with USB connectivity and satellite radio. Meanwhile, the PRO-4X adds automatic headlights, an outside temperature display, a backup camera and a navigation system.

Exterior

The Xterra's styling is evolutionary, mimicking the original's design heritage. It's defined by its standard tubular roof rack and stepped roofline. All Xterras have short front overhangs — the distance between the front of the wheel well and the front of the SUV — and this helps in off-road situations. Exterior features include:

  • Available roof-mounted off-road lights (PRO-4X)
  • Available roof-mounted gear basket
  • Sixteen-inch wheels

Interior

Five people can fit inside the Xterra. An available fold-down front passenger seat that allows for hauling long items can accompany the SUV's standard 60/40-split folding backseat. Options include a Rockford Fosgate stereo and a system of cargo hooks in the luggage area. Interior features include:

  • Cruise control
  • Double-deck glove box
  • Available easy-to-clean cargo floor
  • Cloth seat upholstery; available leather
  • Available Bluetooth connectivity
  • Available navigation system

Under the Hood

Nissan's 4.0-liter V-6 is the only engine offered. It makes 261 horsepower and 281 pounds-feet of torque. Mechanical features include:

  • Engine uses regular gas
  • Six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission
  • Available part-time four-wheel drive
  • Available locking rear differential and limited-slip differential (PRO-4X)
  • Double-wishbone front suspension and multileaf solid rear axle

Safety

Standard safety features include:

  • Electronic stability system
  • Antilock disc brakes with electronic brake-force distribution
  • Seat-mounted side-impact airbags for the front seats
  • Side curtain airbags for both rows

 

Additional Reviews

Cars.com Expert Reviews

Kristin VarelaCars.com NationalOctober 15, 2012
Cars.com StaffCars.com NationalJanuary 18, 2013

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*Invoice prices are made available by Cars.com and are not dealer advertising. All prices are subject to regional variations. Prices last updated 9/23/10. Click here for more information.