4.0 Litre V6 Engine
There’s a fine line between almighty and insane. No matter how you slice it, Xterra delivers. A potent 24-valve DOHC V6 that gives you 261 HP* plus at least that many more reasons to climb higher. Add in 281 lb-ft of torque* and you’ll experience a real kick in the pants. And the best part? You can ride this wave of power throughout most of the rev range.

*All horsepower and torque ratings are per new SAEJ1349 (August 2004) testing methodology.

Transmission
Gear head. You know the benefits of both manual and automatic transmissions. There’s a performance-geared 5-speed automatic* for those who prefer their equipment to do part of the work. And for the purist, Xterra serves up a 6-speed manual** with triplecone synchros in second gear.

*Standard on SE; available on S and Off Road models.
**S and Off Road only.

Shift-on-the-fly 4-Wheel Drive
East. West. Up or down. Let your sense of purpose overpower your sense of direction. 2WD for the flat stretches. Shift on-the-fly 4-wheel drive when things get tough. Off the beaten path? Xterra’s massive off-road tires earn extra stick from an electronic locking rear differential* made even more potent when teamed up with 4-wheel Limited Slip (ABLS). It’s plenty to put more distance between you and the wanna-bes.

*Standard on Off Road model only.

Electronic Locking Rear Differential
Some terrain is so extreme even the rescue guys think twice. That’s where you need to be. Xterra’s available electronic locking rear differential* can help you get out there and conquer it. If you need extra grip along the way, just flip the switch and equal power goes to both rear wheels to boost traction.

*Standard on Off Road model only.

Suspension
Lighten up, they’re heavy-duty.  Xterra’s steel double-wishbone front suspension and stabilizer bar, plus its rigid leaf spring rear suspension, help soak up even the nastiest rocks and washboard. Off Road models benefit from Bilstein® off-road performance shocks, the brand of choice for serious 4-wheelers.

Hill Start Assist (HSA)
Hill Start Assist* works on the uphill swing to help prevent rolling backward when you’re starting from a stop on an incline. This system applies the brakes for a few seconds, allowing you enough time to switch from the brake pedal to the accelerator.

*Off Road model with Automatic Transmission.

Hill Descent Control (HDC)
Who wouldn’t benefit from a little technology? Hill Descent Control* makes going down steep grades in 4WD more manageable. Flip the switch, ease your foot from the accelerator, and this system automatically adjusts your speed and brake pressure to help keep you going at a controlled speed, freeing you up to concentrate on navigating difficult off-road situations.

*Off Road model with Automatic Transmission.

Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)
Stay on your steered path with the help of Xterra’s standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)*. If your vehicle begins to oversteer (fishtail) or understeer (plow forward), this advanced system can help compensate by reducing engine output and/or applying appropriate brake pressure to specific wheels to help maintain vehicle control. Xterra is also equipped with large disc brakes and ABS at all four corners. Plus, the ABS on your 4x4 model comes with a G-sensor that knows what type of surface you’re driving on and applies brake pressure accordingly.

*VDC cannot prevent accidents due to abrupt steering, carelessness, or dangerous driving techniques, or any other reason.  Always drive safely.

4-Wheel Limited Slip (ABLS)
Xterra also has 4-wheel Limited Slip (ABLS) to help you power through the shortcut. This system senses a drive wheel(s) spinning, then instantly applies the brakes to the slipping wheel(s), directing power to the drive wheel(s) with the best traction to help keep you moving forward.