Nissan sticks to their original Xterra concept, "Everything you need and nothing you don't," with the 2009 Xterra, carefully adding several upgrades and minor refinements to an already appealing vehicle. This all-new Xterra sport utility vehicle proves to be a must-have for those who are looking for a powerful driving experience in a solid, sporty vehicle.
The 2009 Nissan Xterra is offered in four models, X, S, SE and Off-Road. All models feature an advanced four-liter DOHC V6 engine with 261 hp and 281 lb/ft of torque. The engine is an increased displacement version of the Nissan engine found in the 350Z, Maxima and Altima, with fine-tuning specifically for the Xterra. All models get an average of 20 miles per gallon on the highway. Transmission choices include a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic and
the choice of two-wheel or four-wheel drive.
On the exterior, past Xterra models have included large fender flares, a roofrack with a latchable lid, rear bumper with sidesteps, powerful headlights and a signature Nissan angled grille. For 2009, all of these features are carried over plus Nissan has added two new grille treatments. The shape of the grille and front bumper were slightly updated on all 2009 Xterra models.
While the Xterra may have a unique exterior design, underneath it has a solid and simple steel frame. Xterra’s rugged suspension features steel double-wishbone front and solid axle leafspring rear construction with stabilizer bars in the front and in the rear. It's truly a rugged and ready vehicle that handles and maneuvers well on- and off-road.
In addition to its exterior refinements, the Xterra has a range of advanced technology features and other refreshments for 2009. Nissan even went as far as offering the Technology Package, which includes a premium 300-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system with eight speakers and a subwoofer, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, MP3/WMA capability plus auxiliary input jack, Bluetooth and XM Satellite Radio, at no charge during the beginning of the launch earlier this year! Valued at $1,300, the package is only available on the S, SE and Off-Road models. The other optional package is the X Gear Package, aimed toward the S and SE models. It includes roofrack crossbars, foglights, a first aid kit, cargo net and gear basket.
You'll also find the interior spaciousness for which the Xterra is known with enough room for five adults to sit comfortably. Xterra features a standard 60/40-split/folding rear seat with removable seat-bottom cushions and an available fold-down front passenger seat in SE and Off-Road models. The Xterra's large cargo area has an Easy Clean surface and 10 utility hooks for convenience, just two examples of how Nissan's forward thinking ensures you a great Xterra driving experience.
As for occupant protection, the 2009 Xterra is safer than ever. New for 2009 are Xterra’s standard, roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental airbags with rollover sensor for front and rear head protection. All Xterras have Nissan's Advanced Airbag System, dual-stage supplemental front airbags with seatbelt and occupant classification sensors, driver and front passenger side-impact supplemental airbags and three-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and adjustable anchors. Other safety features include the Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system, Zone Body Construction, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Nissan's commitment to safety has earned the Xterra a Five Star crash rating for side-impact crash safety from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
"Since inception, Xterra has represented an authentic expression of adventure-focused design, both in aesthetic appeal and real-world functionality. With the enhancements for 2009, Xterra is even more in tune with the needs and desires of its active enthusiast owners," says Al Castignetti, Vice President and General Manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.
The 2009 Nissan Xterra starts at a base MSRP of $21,540. It's still the same rough and tough vehicle it has always been, but now the Xterra leads the ranks of technologically advanced and design enhanced vehicles in 2009. Its level of on- and off-road performance is unmatched in its category, making it a safe, technologically friendly, adventure-ready vehicle that tops all others in its class.
