Skip to main content

Nissan’s Adventure-Ready Xterra May Return from the Grave

nissan xterra suv return 2019 2015
Image used with permission by copyright holder
When Nissan brought the axe down on its Xterra in 2015, the off-road community cried foul. In addition to losing a good product, the reason for the XTerra’s demise was unclear. At the time (and still today), SUV sales were booming, 4WD and AWD fascination was in full effect, and, as a byproduct of the Nissan Frontier’s platform, the Xterra wasn’t a huge cost burden.

When the Nissan Xterra was discontinued, there were no public plans for a new generation. Now, it seems, the Japanese automaker has had a change of heart. In an interview with Wards Auto, Nissan North America’s vice president for product planning, Michael Bunce, said that Nissan is keen on the off-road SUV segment. Furthermore, a new body-on-frame SUV with the Xterra name is being considered for a pre-2020 launch.

Recommended Videos

Nissan’s renewed interest in a rugged off-roader might be explained by the late Xterra’s used-market sales boon. Adventure enthusiasts who missed the memo on the truck’s innovative storage solutions and off-road capability are snatching up prime examples — quickly. Whether a new Xterra is coming or not, used model prices will surely continue to climb.

2018 nissan frontier
2018 Nissan Frontier Image used with permission by copyright holder

Should Nissan approve the model, it will mostly likely be based on the redesigned Frontier’s platform (which may remain the F-Alpha setup) and built at Nissan’s factory in Canton, Mississippi. Both the Frontier and Xterra will receive new engines, transmissions, and interior designs. Look to the current Pathfinder and Rogue for exterior design cues. Four-wheel drive and a Pro-4X off-road package are anticipated options for both the Frontier and Xterra.

Nissan could, of course, take a completely different direction with the XTerra (including opting for a Rogue-based nameplate), but the new SUV will mostly likely contend with the new Jeep Wrangler JL, upcoming Ford Bronco, and Toyota 4Runner — like its predecessor. With the redesigned Frontier due in late 2018, it would make sense for a new Xterra to launch the following year.

Miles Branman
Miles Branman developed a passion for cars early on thanks to a neighbor’s collection of rare and exotic vehicles. What…
FIA issues final rules changes ahead of the 2025 Formula 1 season
The final versions of the three FIA F1 documents for 2025 total 340 pages
Race cars at the start of the 2024 F1 Miami Grand Prix.

The FIA changed the rules for the 2025 F1 Grand Prix season, but that's not unusual. The FIA F1 rules and regulations for the Formula One World Championship are updated yearly.

The changes this year are relatively minor, especially considering that the rules and regulations for the 2026 season will change significantly with the debut of a new generation of Grand Prix race cars.

Read more
The 2025 Harley-Davidson motorcycle lineup is here: Everything you need to know
Harley-Davidson launches six updated cruisers, three new models, and four CVOs
Harley-Davidson 2025 1250 Pan America Special and CVO Pan America.

Following an earlier announcement of 2025 Harley-Davidson carryover touring models, the Milwaukee-based manufacturer recently unveiled the rest of the lineup. The additional bikes include six refreshed cruisers, three four Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) models, and three brand new bikes, the Sportster S, Pan America 1250 ST, and the Street Glide Ultra.
2025 Harley-Davidson cruisers

The 2025 Harley-Davidson cruisers have Milwaukee-Eight 117 powertrains, a Harley-Davidson Softail chassis with a mono-shock rear suspension, and new tech, including selectable ride modes and rider assistance systems.

Read more
What do Formula 1 drivers do in the off-season?
One way to see how F1 drivers spend their free time is to follow their Instagram accounts
The first Gordon Ramsay F1 Garage in 2025 with be at the Miami Grand Prix.

Many people consider F1 drivers lucky because they drive extremely fast cars, make a lot of money, and travel to elite locations worldwide. But how do they spend their time between seasons?

The answer has two parts. Drivers do have time off, but they also have mandatory F1-related post-season and pre-season obligations. This year, for example, there will be an unprecedented 2025 season kick-off event on February 18 at the O2 Arena in London. 
Mandatory F1 team events for drivers
2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Courtesy of Formula 1

Read more