2003 Nissan Xterra Review and Specs

Summary

What Edmunds.com says

A truck-based compact-ute for those who actually plan to use it like it's featured in Nissan's TV commercials.

Pros

Rugged looks and the off-road capability to match, lots of room inside.

Cons

Poor on-road ride and steering, four-cylinder and normally aspirated V6 lack power.

What's New for 2003

Though the Xterra was updated just last year, Nissan has made further changes for 2003. Mechanically, the V6 has received a slight increase in power, and a stability control system (Nissan's VDC) will be a new option. Also for 2003, Xterra XE V6 models come with standard 16-inch alloy wheels and tubular step rails, and four new exterior colors are available, including Atomic Orange and Camouflage (limited and late availability). Inside, a driver seat-height and lumbar adjuster has been added to V6 models and a new roof headliner net (on nonsunroof models) and luggage side net have also been added, along with new metal ceiling tie-down hooks. A "rugged" leather package is now offered for the SE trim. Other refinements include a 300-watt rating for the Rockford Fosgate-powered eight-speaker audio system, an available tire-pressure monitoring system and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution. A heavy-duty alternator and dual 12-volt power outlets located in the engine compartment are also standard on SE trim.

Consumer Ratings & Reviews

Not impressed

Written by: Paul99 on 10/25/2009

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating


Performance:	2	Fun-to-Drive:	4	Build Quality:	7
Comfort:	3	Interior Design:	6	Reliability:	8
Fuel Economy:	1	Exterior Design:	8

Vehicle

2003 Nissan Xterra SE S/C 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl S/C 4A)

Review

My main complaint is the engine and transmission. Reliability is good, only replacing the exhaust manifold in 85,000 miles. But the engine is extremely weak (I have SC model), and the 4 speed auto transmission shifts very rough. Engine takes 15 minutes to "warm up" before the engine and trans are even acceptable for use. The supercharged engine only performs well in dry 60-70 degree weather. I live in Michigan, and we rarely have dry 60-70 degree weather. If I ride alone and temp is optimal, the car is fun to drive, but if i carry passengers, its sluggish at best. Gas mileage is unacceptable for a V6! I rarely get over 13mpg in city driving even when i baby it! Highway mileage is no better!

Favorite Features

Exterior styling, waterproof seat covers, roof rack, Rockford stereo is OK, gunmetal colored wheels on SC model, handling and ride is good, driver seat position, off-road abilities... Overall I love the looks and functionality and ride of this car, just hate the mileage and lack of performance...

Suggested Improvements

Engine, 4-speed transmission(on auto), performance, gas mileage. Why didn't Nissan allow the V6 used on Pathfinder as option on Xterra? Sounds like the '05 and up models have fixed these problems, but I don't like the interior or exterior styling. Looks like this will be the last Xterra I own...

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Fun and Dependable!

Written by: Desiree on 01/08/2009


Performance:	8	Fun-to-Drive:	10	Build Quality:	9
Comfort:	8	Interior Design:	7	Reliability:	10
Fuel Economy:	7	Exterior Design:	9

2003 Nissan Xterra XE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)

I never owned a vehicle more than 1 yr prior to the x-terra. The X-terra has lasted me more than 5 years & it's been a fun ride. I recently got in a car accident and totaled my x-terra. I was barely scratched & it kept me safe during the ordeal. My next car... an 2009 x-terra!

Versatility

Good enough to keep

Written by: KP on 11/13/2008


Performance:	7	Fun-to-Drive:	7	Build Quality:	7
Comfort:	5	Interior Design:	6	Reliability:	7
Fuel Economy:	5	Exterior Design:	9

2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)

Had some issues with the power windows and had them replaced under warranty. Still have occasional problems with it. Had a significant problem with the A/C, basically had it replaced only after 3 years. The first repair under warranty was poorly done by dealer. So, I had to pay out of pocket. I drive several hours at a time occasionally and would like to have a more comfortable seat. Fuel economy approaches 20 at 65 using fully synthetic oil. Needs a bit more highway merging power about 15-20% would do.

Large cargo capacity, with the back seats down. Great styling and not too expensive. good 4x4 capability.

03 Nissan Xterra SE S/C 4wd

Written by: nikkinbrian on 05/09/2008


Performance:	10	Fun-to-Drive:	10	Build Quality:	10
Comfort:	6	Interior Design:	10	Reliability:	10
Fuel Economy:	4	Exterior Design:	10

I bought my Xterra 2 months ago and I absolutely love it. I just happened to find an atomic orange one, at first I wasn't so sure about the color but after a little while it grew on me and now I even love the color.

Stereo system, first aid kit, driving handling and the get up and go.

Gas mileage!!, disc brakes, and stiffer suspension.

Love our X!

Written by: mistfairy on 02/29/2008


Performance:	9	Fun-to-Drive:	9	Build Quality:	9
Comfort:	9	Interior Design:	8	Reliability:	9
Fuel Economy:	7	Exterior Design:	9

2003 Nissan Xterra SE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)

This suv is fun to drive! It has lots of room for all your stuff, even when we had our first child. Infant and toddler car seats fit - but snugly. Unfortunatly the back doors do not open wide enough. It can be tricky getting an infant seat in and out. Has enough pick up and go to really move.

All the add-ons - six disc cd changer, steering wheel mounted radio controls, optional inside bike rack.

Open the back doors wider! Fold flat rear seats. Remove fuel cut out at 95mph.

2003 Nissan Xterra Consumer Ratings & Reviews