Used 2005 Nissan Xterra Off-Road 4WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) Consumer Reviews
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Very Satisfied
I just purchased a 2005 Off Road 4wd model after much research. I love it. This may be one of the most underrated vehicles manufactured this year. The Xterra is solidly built and roughly 15-20k less than the Landrover LR3 or Discovery. While the latter may have the most advanced 4 wheel drive system of any SUV on the road (and posher interior), I bought the Nissan because I value reliability over anything else. I work in the back country and I can't break down. The Off Road edition has a stiffer feel and ride than the 4wd SE models I test drove and if anyone intends to use this vehicle for off-roading I would strongly suggest that you opt for the OR model over an S or SE.
Just Fantastic
After wearing out my age-old Blazer, I needed a new SUV. Out of all the different makes and models that I tested, the Xterra is the only one that had the total package - great appearance, excellent offroad capability, outstanding acceleration for an SUV, a little attitude, and a very clean interior. I have tie down points all over the interior which is very useful when packing up for a trip. No other smaller SUV looks, feels, or rides as good as this. It has the best roof rack ever- extremely durable, held up perfectly when I slammed my kayak rack into a low-hanging pole. No damage at all to the car, just to the add-on kayak rack. Would recommend it to any active person needing a good SUV.
- Off-Road 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,494247 mi away
- Off-Road 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,900262 mi away
- SE 4dr SUVMSRP: $3,999376 mi away
All the right stuff
I wanted the most capable off-road vehicle without having to modify. Think Jeep Rubicon capability in a far more reliable and refined truck that also seats five. I live in Colorado where off-roading is a passion. With rear lockers, hill descent control, 9.5" of ground clearance and the new 4.0 265 HP engine, you have one rugged and extremely capable 4x4. Pleasant and fun on-road with a well thought out no-nonsense interior and full instrumentation. A winning combination all around. My Xterra has been 100% reliable with no mechanical or fit and finish issues. The Xterra has exceeded all my expectations.
Disappointing
Bought vehicle new; mpg ratings were 16-20. Had an 03 Maxima rated at 24-28 mpg; in 45k miles avged 31.5. Expected Xterra to avg 20 or better. Highest ever was 17. Service rep said it was within specs and offered no help. Dealer couldn't reprogram. Overall it is rugged, manages very well in snow and slush and truly is a stable multiple purpose vehicle. Circuit card for fan and AC burned out, $60; clunking in drive train after 35k miles, dealer replaced front and rear drive shafts did not fix the noise. Spare tire lift mechanism broke ($140 - replaced it myself); jack is cheap and bent in use; leak in tailgate corroded lock; wheel bearing went out at 65000, tow & repair $900