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Used 2008 Nissan Xterra SUV Consumer Reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars
61 reviews

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Pros
Cons
5 out of 5 stars

CA in TX

CA in TX, 02/14/2018
updated 10/15/2019
2008 Nissan Xterra S 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 6M)
19 of 19 people found this review helpful

Research SMOD before buying this year model. If it's been taken care of, or has not happened, just put in a new radiator and you should be good to go for quite some time. Timing chain guides start wearing out around 125k and is an expensive endeavor. Never been stranded by this vehicle, and love the abilities. More functional aftermarket stereos are easy to add, giving you some of the newer technology. My technology rating is 5 star because I added a $300 Pioneer head unit and have the best of all those features (Apple CarPlay, hands-free talk, navigation, etc). Down in South Texas, I have no rust. Recently had to do valve cover gaskets and cam position sensor. The heater core hose plastics seem to deteriorate at around 8-10 years. It's easy and inexpensive to fix that if you catch it before it breaks. Vehicle has good power, and is pretty nimble. As of 10/2019 there was a failure on the rear differential. While the vehicle still drove, it was becoming noisy, and the rear axle felt as though it was dragging. Entire assembly was replaced by dealership at a pricey $2900, but it drives like a new car now. At 12 years old now, I think some of these issues come with the territory. Still happy overall with my Xterra and no plans to part with it.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Great Truck

Ankur, 07/22/2015
2008 Nissan Xterra X 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 6M)
16 of 16 people found this review helpful

I purchased mine in 2009 with 17000 Miles on it. Today I am at 174000 miles and still going strong. Not best fuel economy but with 4wd, that is what you expect. Only repairs have been bad bearings on front. Aside from that all routine maintenance. Just replaced the full suspension recently and the ride is much better now. The older it get, the move vibrations you feel, but mainly over 70 mph. Really vibrates after 80 mph, tried wheel balancing several time, breaks and alignments, but i think it is just its age now. Would recommend the truck, but am hoping they redesign soon before i buy another car. I am looking at 4 runners due to much better fuel economy on 4wd versions.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

CAN'T SAY ENOUGH!

graysith, 05/25/2014
updated 05/25/2016
2008 Nissan Xterra X 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
34 of 36 people found this review helpful

After major disappointment with my previous 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee, I turned to Nissan's Xterra, and will never turn back. In the 5-1/2 years that I've owned mine I've had no trouble other than a cracked in-tire air pressure sensor, but that's it. Drives great, super in snow and weather, dependable, trustworthy and comfortable. I needed something able to get through IA blizzard conditions; this baby does it! Have 113K miles on her (80% highway), and plan on keeping "Bear" for at least double that! No regrets whatsoever; I highly recommend Nissan for quality, performance, strength and durability. Leaves Jeep floundering in the dust, let me tell you that! *Update* It is now 2016, and the Xterra has 146K miles on her. Still going strong at eight years old! Replaced a rear wheel wheel assembly when mine loosened and eventually forced the ABS to kick in all the time, but that's it.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
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4.38 out of 5 stars

Off road ready, but still stock

petarvn1, 03/01/2013
2008 Nissan Xterra SE 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
15 of 16 people found this review helpful

Bought certified 2 years ago, Our Xterra has seen dirt, water, and 110 on it's speedometer. We had no problems driving it on light offroad courses, and it's big enough to seat 4 in the back (please dont do it though!) The MPG's aren't too good, but it's good enough for what it is. Surprised at it's speed, though, since it outsprints most family sedans to 60, and the 21+ gallon tank will last you 350-ish miles. Biggest problem are the rear seats. The front ones are soft, and big, but the rear bench feels just like that. a park bench. don't spend more than 4 hours in the back of it, or your back will hurt.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Excellent SUV

Shawn, 08/19/2009
2008 Nissan Xterra X 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful

I have owned this xterra for a year now, and I must say it is absolutely wonderful! It has great power, handles excellent, it is very durable, and I have not had one problem with it. I must also say the sound system is excellent too! The gas mileage is not too bad for a suv, I get 22 mpg on the highway and around 18 mpg in city driving. As far as comfort it is good if you do not frequently drive long distances. It does well in the snow, and the heat is great, as well as the air conditioning is great too! Over all it is a excellent vehicle !

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Could not be better

Nieves, 08/16/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra X 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

Excellent vehicle quality. Very fun to drive. High visibility and very stylish. I use to drive a Jetta which is very compact. Before that I had a Ford Excursion, very comfortable, but terrible gas mileage. I am very happy with this vehicle so far.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

I have owned 5

rwmarshall, 04/29/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra SE 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

This makes my 5th Xterra, I love the auto and have owned one starting with a 2000. Have never had a major problem with any of the previous (4) I have driven. My wife uses it most and she feels safe and enjoys having the 4wd on demand during our NE winters, Use it every weekend to drive from Boston to our place in NH. Ride is smooth and comfortable enough to put the dog to sleep on the way up.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

2 yrs and still running great

nick_ole, 03/26/2011
2008 Nissan Xterra SE 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
8 of 9 people found this review helpful

Fun SUV to drive... hugs the road like a champ with smooth acceleration and strong brakes. Mine is a 4x4... haven't taken it off road yet but looking forward to it. Got mine a yr old at a steal and even if I didn't, it's still worth the money. It's expensive to maintain though...tires cost 200+ a piece and maintenance at the Nissan dealership which I recommend, is still expensive. But all in all, haven't had mechanical issues yet @ 66000 miles. This is my second Nissan after my 2004 Maxima SL and Nissan hasn't failed me yet.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Great SUV

az_ryan, 04/02/2012
2008 Nissan Xterra S 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I got my Xterra S used and love it. The V6 engine is powerful and the ride is smooth and quite. The exterior styling is really nice looking. The interior is pleasant looking and roomy, but very minimal. There are lots of plastic panels and very few bells and whistles you would expect. It would be nice to have more features. The biggest disappointment was the terrible factory sound system. One of the first things I did was replace the radio and speakers with an aftermarket system. The rear cargo is very nicely thought out with adjustable tie downs on the floor and roof, storage under the floor, and rear seats that fold down flush making lots of room for dogs or hauling. Cleans up nice.

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4 out of 5 stars

Thoughts on Xterra

Jack, 02/10/2009
2008 Nissan Xterra S 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

The Xterra has its ups and downs, the engine offers nice power, but fuel mileage is bad. Sometimes city/hwy average mileage as low as 13 mpg that's not even using 4wd. Aerodynamics are terrible roof rack, running boards, fenders, back bumper steps, heavy 4wd system. The auto tranny shifts well. Cargo area offers a decent amount of space. Overall satisfied.

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4 out of 5 stars

Better than any Jeep available now

xterrable, 04/16/2009
2008 Nissan Xterra S 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I've owned several Jeeps from 1951 to 2001 models. This Xterra has the newer jeeps beat hands down.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Work horse

NatG83, 11/04/2009
2008 Nissan Xterra S 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Engine is powerful, but could be more fuel efficient if given cylinder deactivate. Never strained even with full load. Cargo area is durable, but scratches easily. Ride could be smoother if Live-axle and leaf springs were traded for independent suspension. HVAC works surprisingly well, considering there are only vents in the front of the truck. Vehicle is great in weather even when in RWD mode. Use 4WD, and nothing stops it.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Safest Small SUV Money Can Buy

ssnman, 03/29/2010
2008 Nissan Xterra Off-Road 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful

I bought my two teenagers each a new Xterra. Each now has lived through a horrific accident. One side impact the other head on. Both vehicles totaled. Both cases i am absolutely amazed at the sturdy frame construction and impact resistance the Xterra has. I was told by all professionals involved that both survivals were miracles. That may be but Nissan makes one heck of an SUV. That from a grateful Dad.

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3 out of 5 stars

Great vehicle until somthing goes wrong.

Hunter, 04/09/2018
2008 Nissan Xterra SE 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 9 people found this review helpful

This is a cool looking car and has a lot of power but if your looking for a reliable SUV this is not the one. Constantly there is somthing that needs to be repaired. Expect to spend thousands on repairs such as transmission/radiator cross contamination, rear diff faliure, timing chain whine and tensioner, rough idle, etc. All at or below 100,000 miles. If those major repairs have been done then you have got a great car!

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
2 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

245k miles and still going strong

RDG, 08/08/2020
updated 02/10/2023
2008 Nissan Xterra SE 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

2/2023 Just sold it with 280,000 miles on the clock and going strong.. sold for $4,500 easily with the lifetime of documentation of services and preventative maintenance. It pays to record all services! Purchased with 110k miles now nearing 250,000. I do all my own maintenance and I’m probably more anal about it than most but can’t say enough about the X. It’s needed wheel bearings, a radiator, replaced all tie rods and ball joints over the years as one might expect with such miles but the engine is smooth, can cruise all day at 90 with the strong 4 liter motor, it can pull boats, campers and even room to car camp inside. A beast in the snow and can easily tackle off road fun. So versatile! Keep looking for it’s replacement but I’d hate to ever be without it! Good maintenance is key

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Lots of truck for the buck! Fantastic!

Bill, 01/21/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra X 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful

We've always been a Nissan family and bought our latest two, an '07 Sentra S (my daily driver) and '06 Xterra Off-Road (spouse's daily driver), in 10/06. While I rarely drove the Xterra, I loved being high up and having power to spare when I did, so much in fact that I just traded my Sentra for a '08 Xterra. Even the base trim offers great bang for the buck. The 4.0L V6 is a beast, the 5 spd A/T meshes well with it, and it came with standard features that not even my S trim Sentra came with, including cruise, ABS, VDC and EBD (traction control). It's my first SUV and my first RWD vehicle, but its dimensions are easy to acclimate to, and its handling, though still SUV- like, is quite confident.

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3.38 out of 5 stars

Xterra "two thumbs up"

Xterra , 03/17/2009
2008 Nissan Xterra Off-Road 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I've only owned this vehicle for about a month, but it didn't take long to realize this is a great vehicle. Test drove jeep grands, and 4 runners. I've have always driven Toyota's in the past, but they're too expensive. My advice is save your money and get the xterra, "everything you need and nothing you don't" pretty much sums it up, they're not fancy but they get the job done.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Had to buy another one!

Sam Vega, 03/28/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra SE 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Bought the first Xterra in May of 07. Loved it so much that my wife decided to trade in her Ford for another Xterra last month. "Fun to drive" is the best way to decribe it!

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4.38 out of 5 stars

1st SUV!!!

jason60050, 07/29/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra S 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Coming from a 350z I really enjoy being high up. I do notice a rattle in the driver door around the window, oh well it's not that bad.

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5 out of 5 stars

2008 xterra 4x4

xterra, 12/26/2019
2008 Nissan Xterra S 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 6M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

133000 mi, never tuned up, just oil changes. runs great, buy it..............

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

EXTERRA TOUGH-NOT WEENY

TOM, 01/02/2018
updated 07/02/2018
2008 Nissan Xterra Off-Road 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Great off road-- weak spots are exhaust muffler will leak top rear seam to destroy the wiring harness and whatever else the hot gases hit---check the u-joints frequently---do regular maintanence and things will go good

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

TOUGH VEHICLE

T. K., 12/04/2017
2008 Nissan Xterra Off-Road 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 6M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Great vehicle but i had a bad experience with the muffler developing a hole a the top back seam, which damaged the wiring harness to the wheel sensor and the right wheel seal. This cause d the need for a new 1/2 axle and sensor and wiring (not cheap). This was made worst because the heat shield above the muffler was not designed long enough to protect the wiring etc. I since have fabricated a longer heat shield.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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4.88 out of 5 stars

Love it!

Wafubu, 09/12/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra SE 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I've owned 4 Hondas of which 2 were CR-v (07 and 08). Compared to the Xterra they didn't stand a chance. The Xterra is solidly built and they thought of everything. Also you get so many features compared to the Hondas and the Xterra is customizable. I really love mine. I've had it for 3 days so far, but I am really enjoying the ride. It's high up, visibility is great, and it's built so solid. No annoying rattles, etc. The plastic interior is very high quality and I feel that it's laid out perfect. Everything is in the right place. Power everything, mirrors, doors, windows. and it came with high quality mats even! I hope Nissan keeps up with not sacrificing quality.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Quality, Real Sport Utility Vehicle

Daily Driver, 12/20/2007
2008 Nissan Xterra S 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Sturdy, truck frame, doesn't feel like a delicate car whose suspension has been raised and given 4WD. Inspires confidence in bad weather and on rough trails. Fun to drive in the snow and slush! Feels safe. VDC works well when roads are slick. Good ground clearance with key components tucked up under the frame. Excellent acceleration. Very responsive engine and transmission. Quiet on the highway. Comfortable for four on a trip.

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3 out of 5 stars

Just Okay

RKW, 11/29/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra S 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

SUV is pretty much what you see is what you get. It is a truck with an SUV body. Wasn't long until I noticed a roaring noise when slowing down. It actually causes the entire vehicle to vibrate.There is also a whining noise between 45 and 50 mph.Sometimes the shifting is very loose and makes a clanking noise. I plan to address these problems on my next scheduled visit. The gas mileage is a little better than advertised. The ride is so so. The center armrest is too far back.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

The ride you have been waiting for

Coach C, 12/10/2007
2008 Nissan Xterra SE 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I recently traded in a ford escape (02) for my new Xterra. After researching I decided that this was the suv for me. I love the power and so far it has handled well in the snow and ice. I am impressed, so far, with the build quality. I have only had the car for about 6 weeks but so far I am extremely impressed.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Wow I Love this Xterra!

Xtremely Happy, 02/27/2009
2008 Nissan Xterra SE 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Decided on the Xterra after looking at Honda CR-V, Acura RDX, Toyota Highlander, etc. The Xterra may seem not fancy enough for some folks, but seriously it's got everything you need. I've been extremely pleased with this Xterra, it's such a great all round vehicle, easy to drive and not a ginormous vehicle. It's straightforward, drives great and has not given me one moment's trouble in 5 months of daily driving.

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5 out of 5 stars

Nissan Is #1

Beverly Edwards, 01/16/2010
2008 Nissan Xterra SE 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is 2nd X-terra - my first was not a four wheel drive - but she traveled extremely well - the one i own now is a four wheel drive and i love her even more - i can not imagine owning another vehicle but if i do somewhere down the line - i promise it will be a Nissan - i will never go back to any other vehicle - Nissan is the best made auto!!!

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5 out of 5 stars

Awesome!!

kolzilla, 03/11/2010
2008 Nissan Xterra S 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I just recently bought my Nissan and Love it. It's so comfortable and handles the road like I was driving my Mustang. I wanted something a little bigger than what i had which was chev blazer and with a little more horsepower. Even tho I got a used car with low mileage it's still a great purchase. I recommend this vehicle to anyone..

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Xterra - Xtra Great

Walter, 10/04/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra X 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

After owning sports cars for 26 years, Toyota Turbo Supra, Dodge Stealth R/S, I finally bought a practical vehicle (of course I kept the Stealth as well!). To my surprise the performance of my 2008 Xterra has been great, I've only lost about 1.5 seconds 0 to 60 (6.9 on timed track), handling is great and the fit and finish is wonderful. The 6 speed keeps it as a "driver's" SUV. My kids finally can fit comfortably and my over all mileage has been 22 MPG. It's a tough, beautiful performance SUV, I may just keep it forever.

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5 out of 5 stars

most versatile vehicle I've ever owned

john, 03/08/2009
2008 Nissan Xterra Off-Road 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought my offroad exterra new. After comparing and testing to the fj cruiser. I found that the exterra was much more versatile and tougher built. I drive my vehicle every day on and offroad. With the back seat folded down there is almost the same amount of room as a small truck, with the convenience of being able to put the seats back up for passengers. I've owned this vehicle for over a year and nothing slows it down. You can Cruise comfortably on the freeway, and then switch to 4 wheel drive and travel over the roughest terrain. Also it has good towing capabilities. Considering that the v-6 is more powerful than most v-8s and that it is an offroad 4x4 it gets great mpg w/out being boring.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

More holes in your wallet

Sherpa, 02/01/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra Off-Road 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I got my '08 Off-Road edition in Dec 2007. I have driven it on both city streets and highway, and have been on a few long road trips. For being a truck, Xterra offers a very comfortable ride. At the end of my longest trip, six hours, I still felt very relaxed with no sore muscles. On the highway, this vehicle will not disappoint you. Those little hills on the highway won't be a problem at all and passing other vehicles is a breeze. In the city, it's amazing. If I am stopped at a light and the light turns green and I step on the gas, it just goes! One thing I hate is the cold weather driving. It feels a little sluggish until the engine reaches the optimal level. Waiting to offroad now.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Loving my Xterra

Daily Driver, 02/03/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra SE 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I purchased by Xterra in 12/07 and love driving it. The whole family fights to get to drive it places. On an average day I drive 50-80 freeway miles and 10-15 in the neighborhood. I am getting 22-23 mpg. I am getting better than expected, because I expected it to the 12-13 like my dad's Titan. TPremium fuel helps dramatically on the Nissans, and most Nissan owner manuals require it.

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3.5 out of 5 stars

Pretty Nice truck

kev2011, 01/25/2011
2008 Nissan Xterra SE 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Ive been a maxima owner for the last 10 yrs and this is quite a switch. im starting a biz this spring and need the towing. i hope it is up to the task. the car rides nice for a truck but is uncomfortable for long drives which i do every day. the armrest makes me twist my body to use it. the seats are ok. the roof rattles over bumps. the stereo is not even close to the BOSE in a maxima. adjusting to much less creature comforts has taken some time, but i do like the truck. snow is no match for it. i pulled my 20ft boat with it this summer and hardly noticed i was towing anything. i hope its half as good as my maxima.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Great value for the money

4wheeler, 10/11/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra S 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My wife and I absolutely love this SUV. We went from a minivan to a SUV and have been very happy so far. Already took it on a couple of 4 wheel trails and it handles great. This is a highly utilitarian vehicle that serves its purpose quite well. The affordability of the vehicle more than makes up for the so-so fuel economy.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Gets the job done

jayhawk, 03/20/2009
2008 Nissan Xterra Off-Road 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I wanted a vehicle that would not leave me stuck on some remote ranch road and would tow a decent sized trailer. I added mud terrain tires. It has done all I have wanted and I am still pushing the limits.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

2008 Nissan Xterra

Xtrapol8, 02/16/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra Off-Road 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I am completely satisfied. I can happily go canoeing virtually anywhere. X and I can return afterward to my wife and 2 small children and life is still great and still fully enabled. Make yourself a mat for the back (<$20). The Xterra's solid build quality, go-anywhere capability, versatile nature, and aggressive looks make it a must-drive if you're in the market. This vehicle is what it purports to be - a means to an end... any end I choose.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Happy Owner

englishauto, 03/24/2009
2008 Nissan Xterra S 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

From the first test drive I fell in love with this machine. It will go anywhere and delivers unexpected comfort on road and off.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

4 Guys and Their Stuff - Anywhere!

Xtrapol8, 02/21/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra Off-Road 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The FJ Cruiser and the 4-door Rubicon are both excellent vehicles that also have serious off-road capabilities and a manual transmission ... but I've made the right choice for me. Three other 6' 200lb guys can accompany me into oblivion for a 5-day canoe trip and return home again nothing but pleased with the Xterra. On the flipside, my 5'2" 100lb wife and my 4 and 7 year old children love it too. Soon I'll get some proper rock sliders that they can use as a step up into the truck. For a truck that you sit ON and command, and that will do almost anything, the Xterra is remarkably quiet and easy to drive in town and on the highway. High end stereo/CD/MP3/iPod helps too.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Great Truck

charles, 11/06/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra Off-Road 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Bought it last year, I was between the Jeep Rubicon (which i have always wanted) and this. I had to go with the better of the two, the Xterra has definitely proved a worthy truck. The manual transmission is great, the engine has a lot of power, and for off roading, it's amazing. I bought some All terrain tires, stock ones were a little dull, performs amazing in the snow. Always find an excuse to go driving, close to 10,000 miles already and planning a 700 mile road trip soon. The handling is just what I expected, it drives like a truck because it is one. Fuel I am averaging around 19, I drive fast though and with OR tires. I have had some minor problems, but nothing serious.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

After 100 miles

Happysofar, 02/23/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra X 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Wanted the best of both worlds - hauling / towing power, decent fuel economy & off-road ability. Looked at the Toyota FJ which is not a vehicle for a family. Went back to Edmunds and saw the xterra FJ comparison. Bought the X manual 6 spd. It drives very well, it's comfortable, great visibility & a fun ride. Interior is more than sufficient for our needs. Not sure what the "cheap plastic" complaint means. I can't see anything wrong with the vehicle - I really like everything about it.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

2008 replacement of 2005

Spunoffandaway, 03/01/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra SE 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Another great car! The 2008 may be the last in this series, so I had to buy before they change it into a cross-over! I drive a lot of interstate miles, and feel safe with higher assurance of returning if hit. Sort of a small tank. No fear of muddy country roads with the great 4wd. Did have to give up a power plug for the MP3 plug-in (bummer)!The 08 has added XM radio and does offer some good entertainment while on trips. Almost same as 05, slight loss of build quality. Noticeable looseness in rear torque conversion around 35 mph or so, not in 05. Maybe it will go away with time. Still could not get side airbag option, must be a myth, like GPS. Not an economy car. Feels secure on the road.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Better Than Expected..!

RSchools, 04/27/2009
2008 Nissan Xterra SE 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have been test driving Xterras every year since their inception (2000?) and have always wanted one. When gas went to over $4.00 a gallon in Aug 08 I knew that it was a buyers market and purchased a new 08 for $18K even, or more than 9k off the sticker price -- WHAT A STEAL..!! Overall, I am exceptionally pleased with my Xterra. It gets 17+ mpg around town and just over 21 on the hwy. It is a very comfortable vehicle, even on long trips, and the versatility of the rear cargo area is wonderful. Some folks have complained about its interior plastic, but I luv it, as all it takes is a wet cloth to clean it in a snap. The only negative is that I didn't buy two of them when they were CHEAP!

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Could be perfect, but needs some tweaks

Vincent Johnson, 11/19/2007
2008 Nissan Xterra Off-Road 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The 08 Xterra Off Road is almost the perfect SUV for those of us who use it like a sport utility vehicle. It will go almost anywhere you want it to. It does ride more like a truck than other SUVs, but it also looks less like a minivan than other SUVs. You also feel like you're in a truck. The ground clearance is nice (no sharp corners anymore) and the seats make you feel like you need to duck when going into the garage. The horse power is more than you ever need on a daily basis. This is truly a rough and rugged truck. My biggest disappointment with the Xterra has been the estimated gas mileage. Sticker says 16/20, but it's more like 12/16. I get 15-16 at best on the highway.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Happy Customer

Satisfied Owner, 09/02/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra SE 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My previous vehicle was a Chevy S-10 with the Vortec V-6. This Nissan blows my old truck out of the water. It has plenty of giddy up, lots of room inside, and handles remarkably well for a large vehicle. The gas mileage I get is a lot better than advertised on the sticker. I usually get about 18 miles per gallon city. I also enjoy how quite it is inside the cabin. This vehicle is very well built.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Off road enthusiasts rejoice!

koobsw, 05/07/2009
2008 Nissan Xterra X 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Well I am a camper, hunter, and an outdoorsmen and this vehicle does it all. I also needed something to tow my two atv's to the sand dunes and with a 5,500 lb. towing capacity it is a breeze. I also considered the fj cruiser but after test driving both this was the clear choice. the xterra has more horsepower more torque and similar features, but is alot cheaper. the fuel economy is bad but for me it is worth the 265 hp and 281 ft. lb. torque. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone who needs a daily driver but also spends a considerable amount of time off road.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

08 xterra off road automatic

Zee06Mikey, 03/24/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra Off-Road 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Truck is built very well. Good brakes, handling and performance. Seats are comfortable. Paint and build quality is spot on perfect. After a couple days of ownership noticed a rumble vibration at 35 mph and after a couple of trips back to the dealer service and driving other new ones all xterras 2008 seem to have this noise. Hopefully there will be a TSB soon to address this noise.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

overall nice car

raindeer, 06/02/2009
2008 Nissan Xterra S 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have my XTerra now almost 1.5 years, and I never regret buying it. However, I think, the dealership ripped me off a bit. The car is fun to drive, just a bit hard over bumps in the road. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone with back problems. I frequently drive long distances, and It's a bit tough on gas mileage, which is even worse in the city. One tank filling lasts about 360 highway miles. The air condition is o.k., but not great during the hot season in Louisiana. Features, that I miss: The tank is not lockable, and the dealer told me not to buy a lockable tank lid, because this would not seal properly. The antenna can't be pushed in. The sound system is awful.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Fun to drive and reliable

DSuteu, 03/29/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra X 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I live in New England, and used to own a Ford Mustang :(. After a really bad snow storm last December, I decided that owning a 4X4 vehicle is a MUST, so I purchased the Xterra. What a fun SUV to drive! Coming from a smaller car I was worried about its size and visibility, but after only a week of driving it, it felt like I've been driving it forever. It is fast on highway, and quick to respond in city traffic; smooth acceleration, great braking, not to mention the 4X4 performance in snowy conditions. Its gas mileage improved significantly from about 14mi/g to almost 17mi/g (I now have 3k miles on it). I truly like it!

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4.5 out of 5 stars

X-tra Special Xterra 2008

Debbie, 01/03/2008
2008 Nissan Xterra SE 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I truly love the way the X-Terra handles and drives compared to the 2003 I had. I like it being bigger and wider.

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