The 2009 Nissan Xterra is likely worth serious consideration for those needing both suburban and off-road SUV functionality. The fact is, the Xterra possesses a beastly V6 engine and some serious off-road prowess. It also boasts unique and useful cargo options for those around-town chores.
New for the 2009 model year are standard side curtain airbags, a new front end design, roof-mounted lights for the Off Road model, and several interior and exterior trim changes.
Standard Features And Options:
The Nissan Xterra is a five-passenger midsized SUV that comes in four trim levels: X, S, SE and Off Road. All models have the option of being equipped with either two-wheel (rear) or four-wheel drive, except for the Off Road which is only offered in four-wheel drive form.
Standard features on the already well-equipped base X model include full power accessories, air conditioning, keyless entry, cruise control, 16 inch steel wheels and a six-speaker audio system with a CD player.
The next level up is the S model, which adds step rails, alloy wheels, an 8-way adjustable power driver seat, a cargo channel system, and an easy-to-clean rubber cargo floor area.
The SE model adds 17 inch alloy wheels, a leather interior, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
The Off Road model also sports 17 inch alloys, and adds rugged trail tires, special off road shock absorbers, an electronically locking rear differential, skid plates, a fold-down front passenger seat, and unique cloth seats.
Update: Weak Economy Leads To Lower Xterra Prices:
There's no question that dealers are struggling due to the slow economy and tons of competition ... which means there are some extremely good deals to be had right now on a new Xterra... often below invoice prices, sometimes far below.
See the link at the bottom of this article for exactly how to get the lowest price on a new Nissan Xterra.
The Xterra also comes with several option packages which bundle features. For example, the Rockford Fosgate sound system includes eight speakers, a 6-disc CD changer, an mp3 changer, an auxiliary audio jack, Bluetooth, and satellite radio. There's also an X Gear package aimed at the off-roaders which includes roof rack crossbars, a cargo net and equipment basket, foglights, and a first aid kit.
Also available as options is a portable Garmen navigation system and a rear entertainment system.
Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:
All 2009 Nissan Xterras come with a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional five speed automatic, except for the SE trim which only comes in automatic. Powering all of them is a 4.0 liter V6 engine that pumps out 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. The Xterra has been timed going from a standstill to 60 mph in a very respectable 7.6 seconds.
The EPA estimated gas mileage for a 2009 2WD Xterra with manual transmission is 16 mpg city and 20 mpg on the highway. In fact, all Xterras get very similar fuel economy ratings nomatter what the form. The 2WD Xterra with automatic transmission comes in at 15 mpg city and 21 highway. Gas mileage for the 4WD manual is 16 city and 20 highway, while the 4WD automatic is rated at 15 city and 20 highway.
Safety:
Standard safety features on all 2009 Nissan Xterras include antilock disc brakes, full length side curtain airbags, front side airbags, and stability control. In addition, Off Road models also come equipped with hill start assist and hill descent control.
In government crash tests, the Xterra earned a perfect five out of five stars for side impact protection and four stars for frontal impacts.
Interior:
The Xterra's interior is well designed, attractive and user-friendly. Cargo space comes in at 35 cubic feet and can be increased to 66 by folding the seats. Utility hooks and an easy-to-clean rubber floor (on all models except the X) also enhance the use of the cargo area. In addition, Xterra's also come with built in areas designed for the storage of a water jug, a first aid kit, and an adjustable channel system for easier bike rack and gear storage.
Drive:
With its powerful V6 engine and precise steering with little body roll, the Xterra is a strong performer on the road. And with its prodigious low-end power, long suspension travel, and high ground clearance, the Xterra truly shines off-road.
Price:
How To Buy A New Nissan Xterra At The Lowest Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2009 Xterra, here's a technique that will show you how to buy one at the best possible price, especially given the current slow economic environment.
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