Used 2003 Nissan Xterra Consumer Reviews
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Love our Xterra
KyNissan, 12/11/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fun to drive and plenty off power. Only wish the MPGs were better.
XterraUTE
Sidewinder, 08/29/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra SE S/C 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl S/C 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I see a lot of reviews which mention wanting a smoother riding SUV, well folks you probably got the wrong SUV. The Xterra is a truck based SUV, not some vehicle that evolve from a 4 door sedan. For the price and capability, it is an absolute bargain compare to other cute utes'. Recommend you get the 4WD supercharge model, a fun to drive vehicle.
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A great truck for the buck!
TMartin, 12/06/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Well built. Solid construction and ride. Not a wussy SUV that started out as a car platform.
Xterra
cogmeyer, 11/05/2010
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Our Xterra new in '03 had major mech issues right away. Dealer would not admit the engine knock until 20K when it got really severe. Horrible experience dealing with dealer and Nissan USA to get new engine approved, they held the vehicle for weeks before starting work even though parts were at the local distro hub. This turned me off from Nissan forever. Also had bearing in rear diff fail at 8k miles, replaced under warranty no prob, but weird to have this many issues. Since, the Xterra has been quite reliable to current 90k miles. Several leaks (oil pan, valve cover) which are due to the eng replacement at 20ku, but nothing severe. Looks and runs great now
Trendy!
ctyger, 12/06/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra SE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I LOVE my little Xterra! I bought it because I needed towing capacity but didn't want a huge SUV or a pick-up. My camper weighs approx. 3500 pounds fully loaded and it tows my camper like a dream. It uses far too much gas however. The first time my teenage granddaughters saw it they said, "Wow, Grandma - that's so trendy!" I feel like the coolest person on the road when I am driving it!
More than an SUV
PeterW, 09/06/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Best Car or Truck I have ever owned
Changed my mind
MN, 03/03/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Like below, owned it for a week. Traded in a sports car for this b/c of a change in needs. Wasn't expecting to like it as much as my toy, but its definitely won me over. Surprisingly enough, Not sure I'll ever go back... Fun to drive, great sound system
my xterra
balltongn2, 09/06/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my first suv it rides just like a truck with great ground clearence for those who like to hit the trails which I have the only thing that I don't really like is that takes a few to get speed on the take off but once it gets going it moves i would recommened it for anyone
It's awesome!
George S., 12/27/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra SE S/C 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl S/C 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've only owned my new Xterra for a few weeks so far. But, I've been looking at them for over 6 months now. The Xterra is great looking, and very fun to drive. I'm new to suvs and trucks, but I'm sure this is a typical feeling truck based suv. The steering is very numb, but again, I figure that is normal. Freeway driving is much more comfortable than expected.
Great Starting SUV
Mr. INC4, 10/10/2002
2003 Nissan Xterra SE S/C 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl S/C 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Nissan Xterra is a fun and spacious starting SUV with excellent power to get you to places where you would think you never go. The Supercharger delivers power when you need it most and handling similar to a midsize car.
A Real SUV
Kipling, 02/03/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my X-terra. They only flaws are rediculous gas milage (they let you know before you buy it) and some cheap interior items such as the head rests are coming undone after a year. It is built to drive off road and can handle anything i put it through. I missed my old puck-up truck but with my family I needed to have the back seat. I got the best of both worlds with this Truck.
Thumbs Up for XTerra
A.D., 09/06/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra SE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love it!! Stadium seating for back passengers, Great Idea! Roomy, First Aid Kit, Comfortable to drive. The only thingI had to get used to was the automatic window controls. I have the Rockford Fosgate system and it sounds Great esp for a stock system. My husband didn't even want to change it! THANK YOU NISSAN!! but what is the square thing on the back?
Very average SUV
jcohen1994, 01/16/2004
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Xterra is not too big, but carries everything I need. The 4WD goes through anything. Biggest drawback: gas mileage. EPA projected 17/20 for the 5 speed Xterra is a joke. I get 13 around town and 16 on the hwy. If gas mileage is important, pass on this truck. If it doesn't matter, go ahead and buy it. Other negatives: Heater/AC system doesn't work well, the 4WD gets stuck (requiring one to go into reverse to unlock the hubs), and there are no drip rails to keep rain and snow from falling on the seats when you open a door.
After 5000 miles
Banker John, 09/07/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just passed 5000 miles on my Xterra. I have found that the more I drive it, the more I like it (this is my 11th new car, but my first truck/SUV) Very solid and comfortable for a truck. My wife went on a short trip (400 miles round trip) with two adult lady friends and found the ride to be very pleasant. Utility for hauling is very good. Folding the rear seats does let you haul a 4x8 sheet of plywood (with the hatch open). I have an XE 4x4 with an automatic. I'd save my money and avoid buying the SE or the supercharged version. Absolutely zero problems so far.
Luv my Blue Xterra
NCkimber, 01/28/2004
2003 Nissan Xterra XE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Always loved the looks of the Xterra. Finally decided To get a Blue one for myself. Love the styling, Size, reliability. Didn't buy the 4X4 but it did great in this last ice/snow storm.
Love It!!
LL, 02/04/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra SE S/C 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl S/C 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am on my second Xterra (owned a 2000 first). Upgraded to the 2003 S/C. Had one factory suspension problem with the 2003 model and was given a new vehicle (very pleased with the way the situation was handled). Little disappointed with the sunroof, not usable with cargo net installed. I have become a devoted Xterra owner.
Xtremely Happy Owner!!
XterraUTE, 09/07/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra SE S/C 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl S/C 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'm an extremely happy owner of this vehicle. I have done my research with other SUVs and came up liking the Xterra. This a very capable and solidly build SUV, the vehicle does double duty for me as my wife utilized it as a daily driver and then for family recreation utilizing it for camping/fishing go offroad to some places (exploring). So far we luv' the Xterra and hope to enjoy its usage. Highly recommend the top of the line model SE/SC model.
i survived it!
crashed the car, 02/05/2004
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had the 2002 xterra, and at 30k miles I totalled it in an incident with black ice...hit a concrete guardrail, bounced of the back side and plowed across three lanes of traffic into the center railing....didn't hit anyone, didn't flip...and walked away. Great car, I feel very safe in it. I bought a new one from the dealer a week later.
wouldn't recommend
brooke6425, 09/14/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE I4 Rwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I would not recommend this vehicle for anyone with small children or anyone that plans to be using it on long road trips. The ride is so bumpy and on long trips it can get very uncomfortable. If I had to do over I would buy something more expenisve with a smoother ride and something that was quieter on the highway.
great suv
ttb2873, 02/07/2004
2003 Nissan Xterra SE S/C 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl S/C 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a great SUV, I have really enjoyed it. Great on and off road, 4x4 is much better than 2000 model. Effortless hill climbing with the super charged engine. Flew up the continental divide in Colorado, no engine strain at all. Design inprovements from earlier model are noticeable.
Can't be happier
MLB, 01/24/2006
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have never had a single problem with my Xterra. The gas mileage is not the best, but I knew that going in. This type of truck is going to be thirsty. I take it in for every service and that seems to be helping since like I said NO PROBLEMS AT ALL!! I would recomend this to everyone.
Awesome SUV
Everclear, 02/08/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra SE S/C Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl S/C 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had my Xterra for a week now. I love it so far. Really fun to drive.
4x4 Granite Xterra
rickmeister, 09/15/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my second Xterra, I had a '02 Super Black 4x2, and traded up for a '03 Granite 4x4...what can I say, this truck is fun to drive, the 4x4 capabilities on the truck is pretty awesome...it takes rough roads and climbs steep hills...check out xterraownersclub.com and check it out for yourself...
Excellent
ABarrote21, 02/27/2004
2003 Nissan Xterra SE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This was the best purchase that i have ever made. Excellent choice.
Definitely up to expectations
prshea3, 05/05/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have nothing but good things to say about my Xterra. I've owned it for 3 months now, and the only thing I could complain about is gas mileage -- but I knew that going into the deal. The 4WD is terrific -- 12"+ snow banks were no problem at all this winter. The various tie-down points and metal hooks around the cabin are great for securing anything. And the heavy-duty rubber floor mats are a must-have -- they've kept the dirt, salt, and sand off of the carpeted floors.
Great Vehicle
sfherrmann, 10/11/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra SE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I drove a Jeep Wrangler for the past several years and I was worried about how I would like this type of vehicle since I was used to a small rugid vehicle. I am so happy that I decided to get the Exterra. It is an awsome car with a great ride and it handles beautifully. I would buy this car again in a second.
So Far So Good, But...
tommywo, 09/14/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra SE S/C Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl S/C 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had my Xterra for just over a week and I love it so far. Still, I REALLY wish the steering wheel tilted up higher. I'm 6'4/300 pounds and the extra room would come in handy getting in/out of the car. Other than that, I have plenty of leg room. Also, my gas mileage seems to be pretty marginal at best. I'm hoping that it will get better as the engine gets broken.
BUILT FOR MY NEEDS
JOHNTANA, 03/04/2004
2003 Nissan Xterra XE I4 Rwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
NO BUT WARMER OR HEADLIGHT WIPERS JUST FUNTION AND PRACTICLE. THEY READ MY MIND IN THE DESIGN CENTER . GOOD JOB!
I love my XTerra!!!
jsal74, 12/28/2002
2003 Nissan Xterra XE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought the XE-V6 4x2 Auto and have driven it for about 700 miles. So far no problems, and have loved driving it around town. Build quality is excellent, and I have no doubt that Nissan quality will provide me with a long lasting, enjoyable SUV. Exterior styling is eye pleasing, with its tough, aggresive hood giving it a "masculine" look to an otherwise cutesy vehicle class. Great features, fun to drive and plenty of safety features for an average family.
This is my second Xterra and i love them
Xterrababe, 02/22/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I upgraded to the XE supercharged and i love it. I had a 5 speed manula and that was really great in the snow. We just had the biggest snow storm in 7 years and i was out in 20 inches of snow. I got the yellow because it is flashy, and the supercharged is NOT a disapointment. The one thing i have noticed is that it does guzzle gas more than my older one did. As far as room, i have 2 great danes and they have plenty of room! I love this car and think ill keep getting them.
Pretty good SUV
brianl, 02/28/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've owned this Xterra about 8 months and have driven 17K miles to date. It constantly gets 16MPG no matter what type of driving I do. I recently drove to Florida (1,260 miles each way) It still got 16MPG. Of course I was going about 75MPH. Other than that it seems solid.
The Big "X"
Korichan, 03/04/2004
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love the "X"... family trips are a kick for everyone, even the kids in the backseat!!! I love driving it, looking at it, and this is the first time that we do not complain making monthly payments, that's how much we love it. Positive handeling, power enough to climb whatever, room enough for your arms, legs and heads, kickin' stereo, and all that air bag stuff makes us all feel safely tucked away...ours is avalanche white and has everything but auto transmission (wanted a 5 speed) and supercharge (didn't want it).
Best SUV in price range
WRC, 08/08/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Shopped around and researched the Internet for several months before purchasing my 03 Xterra. This SUV provided the most bang for the buck and looks great. Contrary to some other reviews, I really like the interior comfort. If you are looking for a truck type SUV, this is your vehicle. Well- built vehicle with lots of add-ons for the $$.
Xterra Review
b. shrock, 03/08/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great performance off road for 4WD V-6 models. Good ride and comfort. Fuel economy could be better.
it's a beautiful thing
alvaroernestof, 02/28/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i'm in love with my new xterra. i wouldn't trade it for anything. it's the best car i've had so far, it only needs to have a better gas milage and alitle more h/p.
more power
joelmart, 06/18/2004
2003 Nissan Xterra SE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After one year and 12k miles, nothing's gone wrong. Pros: I love the rugged look of the outside, the big tires, the material of the cloth interior, the stadium type seating on the back. Cons: It needs more power (I guess they knew that, look at the 2005 X), intermitent rear wipers, the plastic console looks cheap and the roof rack, although very nice looking and sturdy, could use some more rings to hook up straps. Overall, I'm very happy with the truck. Look forward to the '05.
The good and bad....
1 Nut, 08/10/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Now I've been drooling over the XTerra for a couple years now so it was a dream come true to finally purchase this vehicle. Everything is like I thought it would be. For one thing I drive hard and rough. I love to go off- road, and this is what it's made for. This thing is just a blast for me to play with. On the road driving is decent, can't complain. It takes a while for it to get up to top speed, but that something I can deal with. The MPG is insanely low. I average about 14 MPG, and that's just not right, but I deal with it. Comfort it great for the front seats, but in the back I'm not to sure.
No more Fords....
Parisiv, 03/08/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra SE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this truck....ended up tradeing an 02' Escape that had nothing but problems for this machine and I've never felt more liberated!!!! Getting an awesome deal for fully loaded SE @ $22,500 also made it even more sweeter. Outstanding feel, fit, finish, and looks. Gas is another issue, but well worth it for the reliability. Would recommend to everyone to check it out.
Baterra
BatmanYZFr1, 07/27/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra SE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I didn't shop thinking about the xterra. All I knew is that I wanted a SUV. The saleman said, "what about this?" All I knew about it is that it that integrated first aid kit-cool. I bought it, they threw in a trailer hitch and I was out of there. I now absolutely love this machine. I aim for bumps and dirt whenever the chance arises. My mountain bike accents the xterra so well.I thought about the jeep liberty afterwards, but that thing is just a little too "cute" for me. just need more power. When I want it to move, which it does, I feel that the engine is working too hard and I think I can see my gas needle falling. everything else is great.
Big Mistake
desertman, 10/17/2004
2003 Nissan Xterra XE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Thought I wanted an SUV. Picked Xterra based on looks. Hate driving it. Gas mileage is awful and it rides like the tires are made of metal.
My X
kylefesette, 07/01/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i love my X and would recommend it to anyone...
Nice SUV
edjkc, 08/19/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my first SUV. After looking at several different models, I decided on the Xterra. One of the biggest selling points to me was its off road capabilities (getting up in mountains during ski season can be quite a challenge in a small sedan). The gas mileage could be improved, but so far I am averaging 18.5-19 between city and highway driving. Not to bad, but could be better. Have read several reports on wind noise, but you must realize that whenever you add a rack on top of a vehicle the size of the X, it's going to make some noise. Had a ski rack on top of a Ford Focus - talk about noise!!!!! All in all, I love this SUV.
OUTSTANDING BUY!
Bradford, 08/11/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra SE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have only had the XTerra for two weeks and it is absolutely the best vehicle purchase I have made in 25 years!!!! Fun, durable, reliable, and easy to drive. It has the necessities of a truck/SUV but the handling capability of a car. It looks great all cleaned and waxed for a luncheon with clients; or all muddy and rough for a weekend camping or hiking. GREAT VEHICLE!!!! 110% SATISFACTION!
Bullet proof and fun to drive
Marc, 03/13/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After doing much research in the mini to mid size SUV market I ended up with the Xterra for multiple reasons: For starters, it is a blast to drive, extremely versatile (Have carried a snowblower, several of my friends couches, pulled large boats and tent trailers and never got stuck in mud or snow), and extremely reliable. Apart form regular maintenance, I have yet to have any problems with it. The only down side would be it's thirst for fuel (Especially with the rising prices), but did not expect to get much better with much else out there that has it's versatility and capabilities.
The Best SUV on the road
Bryanna, 07/25/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra SE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We got an Atomic Orange Nissan Xterra last yer and it has been the best car weve had but it has its uos and downs!
Super Charged Xterra
JustisNme, 08/27/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra SE S/C 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl S/C 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Totally Great Truck Love the way it handles and takes abuse, Recommend Automatic Trans, Last one I had Clutch gave out Four wheeling to easy! Fast Truck!! Highly recommend!
great SUV
ARM2C, 03/16/2005
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I absolutely LOVE my xterra. Everything from the inside to the outside. I love the way it sets up really high off the road. It makes seeing around traffic easy. I love everything...everything...except the gas mileage. I am trying to decide if I should sell it and buy something with better gas milage. I am so torn because I love my Xterra. If gas milage is not an issue... you will LOVE the xterra. I get about 15 mpg. I have owned 3 maximas and put 250,ooo miles on each.... So to me the name NISSAN says it all. The durability will outstand any of the competitors by far.....
Xterra
Carcrazee79, 07/28/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra XE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have only had my Xterra for three days and so far I have no complaints. The 6 cylinder seems to be a little underpowered but it has enough get up and go to get out of its own way..which to me is the important part. I got the Xterra to have more room for my hiking/capming gear and my two dogs. I really like driving the Xterra it is a lot of fun and the fuel economy is not that bad..it gets a lot better gas mileage than my truck (01 Toyota Tacoma).
03 Xterra
Brian, 06/16/2005
2003 Nissan Xterra XE 4WD 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Xterra has been a great looking, fun to drive, & reliable SUV. It's the perfect mix of weekend off-road capability and mid week commuting comfort & reliability.
holds up well during accident
ellablue, 07/29/2003
2003 Nissan Xterra SE Rwd 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Xterra! Unfortuntly i was in a major accident in my Xterra that resulted in $12,000 worth of damage. If not for my Xterra i would have been badly injured or even worse. Instead i am very lucky to have walked away with only a broken arm. So you can have the peace of mind knowing that your Xterra will hold up very well in a accident. The air bags deployed as the should have and remember to always wear your seat belt it could save your life.