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All-New 2005 Nissan Xterra Follows the Trail of the Original – With More Power, Room and Ruggedness
When it was originally introduced in 1999, the Nissan Xterra stood out in a crowd of nearly 40 competitive sport utility vehicles with its rugged truck frame, purposeful styling and “everything you need, nothing you don’t” adventure positioning. As the all-new, second generation 2005 Xterra makes its world debut at the New York International Auto Show, the competitive field of SUVs has grown to over 70 models. Yet one thing remains unchanged – the Xterra still stands alone as a segment of one.
The 2005 Xterra builds on the original’s unique positioning with improvements on all functional and user attributes with more power, more roominess and more features, including enhanced off-road performance systems.
“The changes in the new Xterra are evolutionary, though with a capital E,” said Mark McNabb, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “For 2005, we’ve made key improvements in the areas customers want most – power, driveability, smoother on-road dynamics, more interior space and cargo versatility and, of course, greater off-road performance.”
Two of the most significant changes to the new Xterra are the use of a version of the new “F-Alpha” platform, which was created for use on the new Nissan Titan full-size pickup and Nissan Armada full-size SUV, and the utilization of a new 4.0-liter version of Nissan’s VQ-series V6 engine.
“Xterra was a cornerstone vehicle in launching Nissan’s remarkable product revival in the late ‘90s, showing the automotive industry that good things happen when you focus on meeting customers’ unmet needs, rather than following the competition. With this new generation design, Xterra still has no equals,” said McNabb.
Evolved Exterior Styling
The styling of the new 2005 Xterra evokes that of the breakthrough original design – with more of the same ruggedness and direct function that its designers express as “Xterra DNA.” Larger in nearly every dimension, the new look is more exciting, more powerful and more functional.
Key exterior styling features include large, flared fenders, a new versatile roof rack with latchable lid and a new rear bumper design with side steps for easy access to the roof rack. It also offers a large, powerful hood and headlights and Nissan SUV signature angled strut-style grille.
The 2005 Xterra’s wheelbase has been extended two full inches for a smoother ride and greater interior room, yet the overall length is only two-tenths of an inch longer due to a reduced front overhang – which enhances maneuverability in off-road hill climbing and trail situations. The Xterra’s width has also been increased by 2.5 inches, while height has increased 1.9 inches.
“Xterra has a very large, very loyal following – owners who love the combination of purposeful styling matched with practical size and functionality. Our task with the new design, which I think we’ve accomplished, is to update the look without losing any of the original’s distinctive character,” said McNabb. “You should be able to tell with just a glance that this is the next Xterra.”
A New Multi-Flex Interior Design
The concept for the first generation Xterra’s interior was simple: everything you need, nothing you don’t. For the new Xterra, the interior concept is also simple: everything you need, nothing you don’t – now truer than ever.
The “truer” comes in many areas, beginning with more room. Front leg room has been increased nearly an inch (0.9 inch) and front head room over half an inch (0.7 inch). But the real gain is in the second row, where leg room has increased 3.6 inches and head room has grown by 2.3 inches.
Interior flexibility has been enhanced a number of ways as well. The 60/40 split folding stadium-style rear seat is joined by an available fold-down front passenger seat, which creates added utility for hauling long recreational gear. The center console has been enlarged and the glove compartment is now a double deck design. There is also additional instrument panel storage. The Xterra Off-Road model includes unique blue seat fabric.
The cargo area is highlighted by an easy-to-clean luggage area flooring and a total of 10 cargo area utility hooks – six on the floor/sides and four on the ceiling and sides (floor hooks can carry up to 110 pounds). A new adjustable channel system in the cargo floor, similar in design to the Utili-track™ system offered on the new Nissan Titan and 2005 Frontier pickups, makes it easier to secure bike racks and other accessories or gear. There’s also an available built-in first-aid kit and space to securely carry up to one-gallon jugs. “The new Xterra’s combination of thoughtful cargo area features creates an extremely versatile space for hauling all the things that accompany active lives,” said McNabb.
Active lives also require an active sound track, so the new Xterra is offered with a premium 300-watt Rockford Fosgate® powered audio system with nine speakers, steering wheel controls, MP3 capability and satellite radio (optional receiver and antenna must be purchased and installed; satellite service must be activated).
A Strong New Platform
From the beginning, Xterra has differed from many other similarly sized SUVs with its truck-based (rather than car-based) platform, a credential that adds to its proven off-road capabilities. For 2005, the new Xterra features a new platform, a modified version of the “F-Alpha” platform developed for use with the full-size Nissan Titan pickup and Armada SUV.
The new Xterra starts with a fully boxed, all-steel ladder frame and adds a steel double-wishbone front suspension with stabilizer bar and rigid leaf spring rear suspension. High-performance gas shocks are available with the Xterra Off-Road model. The new Xterra also features an enhanced ground clearance with a clean underbody to protect components from off-road obstructions.
Powering the new Xterra is a standard 4.0-liter DOHC V6, rated at 250-plus horsepower and 270-plus lb-ft torque (final figures will be announced closer to production). The new engine is an increased displacement version of Nissan's VQ engine series found in the 350Z, Maxima and Altima. It features a longer stroke (than the 3.5-liter version) and has been specifically tuned for SUV and truck applications.
Like others in the VQ family, the new 4.0-liter version includes such advanced design features as Electronic Throttle Control with secondary mapping in 4LO (4WD models), Continuous Valve Timing Control (C-VTC), Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), silent timing chain, microfinished camshaft and crankshaft surfaces, molybdenum-coated pistons, resin intake manifold, digital knock control system, high capacity muffler, lightweight aluminum block and platinum-tipped spark plugs.
Two advanced transmissions are available with the 2005 Xterra. The new electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission is based on the transmission used in the 350Z, modified for use in truck applications (with an emphasis on acceleration, fuel economy and shift quality). Also available is a 6-speed manual transmission tuned for driving performance and fuel economy and also based on a 350Z design.
“We expect the new Xterra to offer best-in-class horsepower and torque, with exceptional acceleration and driveability, such as acceleration coming out of a corner,” said McNabb. “We’ve given it the hardware to get the job done, on highways and any paths that lead to adventure.”
Like the previous generation, the new Xterra is offered in 4WD or 2WD configurations. The part-time 4WD system includes 2WD/AUTO/4H/4LO modes and electronically controlled transfer case. A Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system is also available, along with other advanced off-road capabilities.
Other driveline components include engine speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering and 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). Available wheels and tires include up to 17-inch wheels with 265/65R17 tires.
Advanced Safety Systems
The new Xterra’s list of safety features and equipment includes Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones, Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (which includes dual-stage front supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors and a front occupant classification sensor), and 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Other standard equipment includes 3-point seat belts for all rear seat occupants, including the center rear position, and the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat anchor system.
Also available are supplemental front-seat side-impact air bags, and available roof-mounted supplemental curtain air bags for side impact and rollover protection for all outboard passengers.
A Range of Models
The 2005 Xterra will be offered in a choice of models: S, Off-Road and SE. Each is offered with standard 4.0-liter V6 and a choice of manual or automatic transmissions and in 4WD or 2WD configurations. It goes on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in early 2005.
The new Xterra will be assembled at Nissan's award-winning Smyrna, Tennessee manufacturing facility. Engines will be supplied by Nissan’s nearby Decherd, Tennessee engine facility.
“For 2005, Xterra remains a catalyst for adventure,” said McNabb. “With aggressive styling, enhanced off-road capabilities, dynamic performance and its unique multi-flex interior, Xterra once again has it all.”
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2005 Nissan Xterra Key Dimensions and Specifications
Engine 4.0-liter DOHC V6
250-plus horsepower
270-plus lb-ft torque
(Final figures will be announced closer to production)
Transmission 5-speed electronically controlled automatic or
6-speed manual transmission
Frame Fully boxed, all-steel (F-Alpha platform, based on Nissan
Armada)
Drive Configuration Front engine/2WD or 4WD or with 2WD/4H/4LO, electronically controlled part-time transfer case
Available Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)
Available advanced off-road traction capabilities
Suspension Independent double-wishbone front suspension with coil springs
Brakes 4-wheel disc with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA)
Wheels/Tires Up to 17-inch wheels with 265/65R17 tires
Wheelbase 106.3 inches
Length 178.7 inches
Width 72.8 inches
Height 71.4 inches
Select Exterior Features Active, rugged exterior design with aggressive geometric fenders, angled strut-style grille, angled C-pillar with Nissan SUV signature high-mounted rear door handles, upgraded roof rack with latchable lid for reduced wind noise, new bumper side steps to allow easy access to roof mounted storage rack
Select Interior Features Distinct Xterra stadium-style seating with kicked up roof, flat floor to allow easier loading, cargo area channel system to better secure large cargo, fold-down front passenger seat, 60/40 split rear seat, double deck glove compartment, large center console with multipurpose storage
Safety Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones, Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) (includes dual-stage front supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors and a front occupant classification sensor), 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, available supplemental front seat side-impact air bags, available roof-mounted supplemental curtain air bags for side impact and rollover protection for all outboard passengers, 3-point seat belts for all seat positions, including center rear position, and LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat anchor system
Models 4WD and 2WD in a choice of S, Off-Road and SE trim levels
Manufacturing 4WD and 2WD in a choice of S, Off-Road and SE trim levels
Ive got a Nissan Murano SL AWD right now as my rental on the TV show and I love this thing. If it had a 6 speed manual Id be in heaven with all the driving im doing.
Originally posted by Infamous425 honda better step it up with a v6 for the cr-v
Same goes for Toyota in the Rav-4. The Escape already has a V6 option, but the I think the biggest threat to this segment is the new Equinox. That thing has a V6 also and it looks great. Still, the Xterra is a true truck and can go anywhere, and the new 4.0 VQ V6 is LIGHTYEARS ahead of the weak V6 they put in that Equinox... I guess its a matter of what you're purpose of the suv is for.
Originally posted by Infamous425 equinox is just a rebadged saturn VUE. im surprised chevy isnt using honda's 3.5 in it
Well, it uses the VUE's platform, but I think that it's more than just a rebadge. For example, the Equinox uses steel, the VUE, plastic. I don't like that little V6; it's weak, made in China, etc. GM could have made a better powertrain choice. I think that's the cheapest V6 they have in the global bin, and they pic it up just to say they have a standard V6 in that class. Does GM use Honda's 3.5 in any of it's vehicles? If so, I didn't know.
Nissian is simply mauling honda in every way, simple as that...i dont perticularly like this thing, but face the facts people- almost everything in the nissian/infinity stabel is new, or refreshed within the last 2 years....wish i can say the same for honda.
Originally posted by titan Well, it uses the VUE's platform, but I think that it's more than just a rebadge. For example, the Equinox uses steel, the VUE, plastic. I don't like that little V6; it's weak, made in China, etc. GM could have made a better powertrain choice. I think that's the cheapest V6 they have in the global bin, and they pic it up just to say they have a standard V6 in that class. Does GM use Honda's 3.5 in any of it's vehicles? If so, I didn't know.
Dealers think Nissan could and should cash in on the rugged SUV boom.
Nissan is in the midst of a complete portfolio rejuvenation that started off last June with the new Rogue and continued with subsequent launches like the Ariya electric SUV, Z Proto, Magnite small crossover, and the Frontier pickup refresh for South America. In addition, a revamped Note small hatchback was launched in November at home in Japan, while the Kicks and Armada were also updated before the end of 2020.
The US-market 2022 Frontier and Pathfinder are scheduled to debut on February 4 and will be followed later this year by the next-gen Rogue Sport / Qashqai. Nissan dealers – at least those in North America – have asked HQ for a product they believe the company’s portfolio is lacking, the Xterra. The truck-based SUV was offered in the United States between the 1999 and 2015 model years across two generations (WD22 and N50).
It’s worth mentioning the nameplate was revived in November 2020 as the “X-Terra” for the Middle East with a Navara-related truck platform and three rows of seats. Pictured here, the model in question is essentially a facelifted variant of the Terra introduced back in mid-2018 in China, effectively meaning the spiritual successor of the old Xterra has actually been around for roughly three years.
Is the US getting the X-Terra? Nissan says it has had talks within the company about the model’s potential return to North America, but has told dealers “nothing’s been decided.” Dealers estimate the rugged vehicle could generate close to 80,000 sales each year thanks to a strong demand fueled by the truck-based SUV boom.
They argue Nissan should get a piece of the action rather than just stay on the sidelines and watch the Ford Bronco, Land Rover Defender, and Jeep Wrangler grab all the sales. Tyler Slade, an operating partner at Tim Dahle Nissan Southtowne in Salt Lake City, told Automotive News the profit margin is nothing to sneeze at, adding a Wrangler has double the profit margin of a Rogue.
That being said, high-ranked Nissan officials at home in Japan ruled out the possibility of introducing the Terra / X-Terra in the US when the Chinese version was unveiled in 2018: “Currently, that is out of our scope. The U.S. market is one of the toughest, not just because of crash tests but also because of customer expectations.” It’s unclear whether the situation has changed since then, but a final decision is still pending.
On Wednesday, in Las Vegas at the automaker’s North American Automotive Dealer Show (NADA) meeting Automotive News reported that dealers were shown the new Xterra, and a family of body-on-frame vehicles were confirmed alongside the revived off-roader.
The Xterra, which is said to be arriving in the second half of 2028, will be followed by an Infiniti variant, new body-on-frame Pathfinder, Frontier pickup, and Infiniti QX60.
All five vehicles will share a new body-on-frame platform, be built in the U.S. to avoid tariffs and lower costs, and the Xterra’s already been confirmed to have an electrified powertrain. The Frontier and other models are expected to offer an electrified powertrain as well.
The Drive exclusively reported in November that the new Xterra will cost less than $40,000 and be available in yellow. A 2-speed transfer case with 4Lo is confirmed.
Scott Smith, president of Smith Automotive Group near Atlanta, told Automotive News the new Xterra is “radical looking” and that it is beefy, features a muscular grille, and no-frills rugged focus.
Charlie Hicks, CEO of Hicks Automotive Group in Texas, told Automotive News the Xterra carries DNA of the original with a modern twist while stating, “there’s an aggression to it.”
The Xterra shown above was a custom build by Nick Scherr, aka “NISMO Nick,” for the 2025 SEMA show. While a mashup of today’s Frontier pickup and an old Xterra, it gives a clear indicator of what a Nissan-badged Toyota 4Runner killer could look like.
The Xterra will be a two-row SUV. Today’s Pathfinder and QX60 are both three-row SUVs that feature unibody construction that differentiates them from the three-row body-on-frame Nissan Armada and Infiniti QX80. It’s unclear if the new body-on-frame Pathfinder and QX60 will feature two or three rows of seating and how they will be differentiated from today’s full-size SUVs in dealers.
The new Frontier is expected to be similar in size to today’s truck, though the rear seat might feature more space, better packaging, and deliver a more comfortable cabin.
