TO THE POINTValue: Good, w/side curtain airbags Interior: Versatile, comfy & durable Exterior: Small changes improve look Drivability: More power, nicer ride, wind noise a factor Overall: More power, room, better on and off-road
What do you like most about the 2005 Nissan Xterra? The new engine improves power significantly, and the interior has been extensively redesigned. Plus, the interior is larger than the previous version.
What do you like least? Still get some wind noise when traveling around 70 mph, and fuel economy is poor.
Which model would you purchase? I would purchase the S trim, with the power and the utility package, though the SE, with optional side curtain airbags, is also a consideration for safety.
Photos courtesy of Nissan North America
About Brian Chee Prior to joining Autobytel in the Spring of 2000, Brian Chee spent 15 years as a writer and editor in his native southern California, his work appearing in a wide variety of regional newspapers and online publications. As an editor at Autobytel, Brian has been quoted in numerous regional and national publications, including the Wall St. Journal and InStyle Magazine. He is responsible for writing, editing and planning content for three of the company’s consumer websites: autobytel.com, autoweb.com and carsmart.com. His “beat” includes vehicle reviews, features, news and Auto Show coverage. Brian considers himself a “SoCal” car enthusiast: the kind who grades a car on how it handles today’s urban and suburban reality of daily traffic gridlock, rising fuel prices and fast-paced lifestyles. Brian is an Eagle Scout, a member of the Automotive Press Association, the Motor Press Guild, and the California State University Advisory Board for Internet Writing. Brian holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism.