As SUVs become more like stylish minivans or high-riding sedans geared toward suburban families, a gap is left for more traditional rugged SUVs that live up to the SUVs original branding -- sport and utility-oriented. Enter the 2000 Nissan Xterra, brand new this year. The mini SUV is actually based on a truck platform (the Frontier), not a car, and as such provides more stability for off-roading adventures.

Geared towards young outdoor enthusiasts, the 2000 Xterra comes in either 2WD or 4WD in the base XE and sportier SE trims. The XE has either a 143-hp 2.4-liter I4 engine with 5-speed manual or a 170-hp 3.3-liter V6 with choice of manual or 4-speed auto tran. This powertrain is the only one offered in the SE. The Xterra is actually larger than its direct competitors, with a 104.3 wheelbase and a length just shy of the more upscale Pathfinder. The Xterra also costs less than the Pathfinder, making it appealing to those craving adventure over luxury. The Xterra comes standard with ABS brakes, a CD player, and air conditioning. The XE is sparsely outfitted, but can get optional features that are standard on the SE, such as adjustable roof rails, step rails, power accessories, a rear window wiper, foglights, a first aid kit, and a sunroof.

Rear seats split 50/50, but the bottom cushion must be removed to fold them flat. This gives you 65 cubic feet of cargo room. With the seats up, the 2000 Xterra has an segment-leading 44 cubic feet of cargo space. The backseat sits up higher than the front seats for better visibility, and a raised roof accommodates headroom. Drivers love the true 4WD performance in weather and back roads, and the truck platform is ideally suited for such terrains, but makes city driving somewhat rough. Turning radius is tight, and the overall style and stadium rear seats are big hits for owners. Downsides include noticeable wind noise, tight legroom front and back, and body lean on turns or windy roads.