Though not sacrificing off-road ruggedness, the 2006 Nissan Xterra SE 4WD focuses on passenger comfort and convenience, with a lot more features and no manual transmission.  The 265-hp, 4.0-liter V6 is coupled only with a 5-speed auto tran.  The on-demand 4WD gets help from a double wishbone front suspension, live axle rear suspension, rear limited slip differential, and 17-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires.  Skid plates almost encourage off-roading.  Stability and traction control, electronic brakeforce distribution, and 4-wheel ABS brakes are all standard.  Dual front airbags earn four stars, and optional side airbags for both rows boost impact ratings to five stars.

Utility comes in the form of a standard roof rack, cargo area tie-downs, hooks, and a net.  A cargo cover and a trailer hitch are available.  Front power outlet, cupholders, and various storage compartments abound.  Rear seats split-fold to expand capacity to 66 cubic feet.  Nice touches are the full power setup, cruise control, wheel-mounted controls for the CD changer/MP3 player, leather trim, foglights, trip computer, and remote entry.  Satellite radio is a new option this year, joining an auto-dimming rearview mirror.  Owners like the combination of lots of cargo space without the feeling of driving an oversized SUV.  Engine power and 4WD performance also rate highly in the 2006 Xterra SE 4WD.  Owners wish leather seats and a sunroof were available and that gas mileage was improved.