Nissan Unveils All New 2005 Xterra in New York

New York, NY - 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

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/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). 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."

At a Glance: 2005 Nissan Xterra
The all-new 2005 Nissan Xterra, which made its world debut at the 2004 New York International Auto Show, continues the theme of the original

Highlights of the 2005 Nissan Xterra include:

Body
Evolutionary styling with a rugged exterior design, longer wheelbase and short overhangs
Enhanced roominess versus the current Xterra
Integrated front bumper, aggressive geometric fenders, angled strut-style grille
Large, powerful hood and headlights with Nissan signature style grille
Highly functional roof rack with lid, available side running boards
New rear bumper with side steps

Engine and Driveline
New 4.0-liter DOHC V6 producing 250-plus horsepower and 270-plus lb-ft of torque (final figures will be announced closer to production)
Aluminum block with cast iron cylinder liners, microfinished crankshaft and camshaft, molybdenum-coated pistons, Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), Continuous Valve Timing Control (C-VTC), silent two-stage timing chain

Choice of 5-speed electronically controlled automatic or 6-speed manual transmissions
Available Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)
Available 4WD system with 2WD/4H/4LO modes and an electronically controlled part-time transfer case
Available advanced off-road traction systems

Suspension, Steering and Braking
Independent all-steel double-wishbone front suspension with stabilizer bar
Rigid leaf rear suspension
Available high-performance gas shocks
Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering
Up to 17-inch wheels and tires
4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA)

Interior Features
Standard 60/40 split folding stadium-style rear seats
Available fold-down front passenger seat
Large center console, double-deck glove compartment, additional storage compartments
Easy-clean cargo area surface with flat cargo floor to allow easier loading
Cargo area channel system to allow flexibility in securing large items

Safety and Security
Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones
Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (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, with available 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
3-point seat belts for rear seat occupants, including 2 nd row center position
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat anchor system

Models and Manufacturing
Available in 4WD and 2WD drive configurations in choice of S, Off-Road and SE trim levels

Assembled by Nissan North America Manufacturing Smyrna & Decherd Tennessee Plant

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

Rigid leaf rear suspension

Available high-performance gas shock absorbers

Steering Engine speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion

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 Assembled by Nissan North America Manufacturing Smyrna & Decherd Tennessee Plant

Looks like another Nissan with cheap interior! I have owned a Nissan in the past and would never own another. Thanks for the info Thai.

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

Preview: 2005 Nissan Xterra

Over the past 5 years, Nissan (with a helping hand from Renault) has lifted itself from the edge of bankruptcy to the forefront of the industry, with newly designed vehicles in almost every market segment. Hoping to continue this recent success, Nissan will soon release their all new 2005 Xterra SUV.

The styling of the 2005 Xterra builds on its predecessor

i was gonna wait on the Xterra, but i knew the ride and overall quality would never come close the T4R.

What kind of price are we talking about?

FJ??? Is this a new Jeep (_J series) or a new Toyoto FJ 40...etc.???

--Bill