The Nissan Xterra, specifically the first generation (Xterra I) produced between 2000 and 2001, represents Nissan’s initial foray into the mid-size SUV market. Designed to appeal to buyers seeking a rugged, capable, and affordable vehicle, the Xterra aimed to bridge the gap between traditional body-on-frame SUVs and the emerging crossover segment. While not initially a high-volume seller in North America, the Xterra established a loyal following due to its off-road prowess and practical design. This model was primarily sold in North America, offering an alternative to established competitors like the Jeep Cherokee and Ford Explorer.
Nissan Xterra I: A Detailed Overview
The Xterra I was built on a modified Nissan Frontier pickup truck chassis, providing a robust foundation for both on-road comfort and off-road capability. It was positioned as a sporty, utilitarian SUV, emphasizing functionality over luxury. The vehicle’s design reflected this ethos, with a boxy silhouette and durable interior materials. The Xterra I offered a single engine option – a 3.3-liter V6 – paired with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. The availability of a four-wheel-drive system further enhanced its appeal to adventurous drivers.
Engine & Performance
Powering the Nissan Xterra I is the VG33E 3.3-liter V6 engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 170 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 271 Nm (199.88 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2800 rpm. The engine features a longitudinal front-engine layout, multi-port fuel injection, and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The power-to-weight ratio is 10.5 kg/Hp, or 95.5 Hp/tonne, while the torque-to-weight ratio is 6.6 kg/Nm, or 152.2 Nm/tonne. The engine’s displacement of 3275 cm3 (199.85 cu. in.) and a compression ratio of 8.9:1 contribute to its reliable performance. Fuel consumption is rated at 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) in urban driving and 13 l/100 km (18.1 US mpg, 21.7 UK mpg, 7.7 km/l) in extra-urban conditions. The Xterra I achieves a maximum speed of 192 km/h (119.3 mph).
Design & Features
The Nissan Xterra I is a five-door SUV with seating for five passengers. Its body-on-frame construction provides a sturdy and durable platform. The exterior design is characterized by its angular lines and relatively high ground clearance. Key features include a spacious interior with ample cargo capacity, ranging from a minimum of 1260 liters (44.5 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1857 liters (65.58 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Standard safety features for the era included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and hydraulic power steering. The Xterra’s interior, while functional, prioritized durability over lavish appointments, featuring cloth upholstery and straightforward controls. The vehicle’s 235/70 R15 tires contribute to its off-road capability and ride comfort. The Xterra’s design focused on providing a practical and versatile vehicle for active lifestyles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Xterra |
| Generation | Xterra I |
| Type (Engine) | 3.3 i V6 (170 Hp) 4WD |
| Start of production | 2000 |
| End of production | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 13 l/100 km (18.1 US mpg, 21.7 UK mpg, 7.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Torque | 271 Nm @ 2800 rpm (199.88 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VG33E |
| Engine displacement | 3275 cm3 (199.85 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 91.5 mm (3.6 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.3 l (3.49 US qt | 2.9 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.95 l (11.57 US qt | 9.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1780 kg (3924.23 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1260 l (44.5 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1857 l (65.58 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 73 l (19.28 US gal | 16.06 UK gal) |
| Length | 4520 mm (177.95 in.) |
| Width | 1790 mm (70.47 in.) |
| Height | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Rear track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/70 R15 |
The Nissan Xterra I, despite its short production run, laid the groundwork for a successful SUV lineage. It offered a compelling combination of affordability, capability, and practicality, appealing to a niche market of buyers who valued ruggedness and versatility. While superseded by later generations with improved features and refinement, the Xterra I remains a notable entry in Nissan’s history and a testament to the enduring appeal of the body-on-frame SUV.
