Conjuring up associations with cross-country travel and the youth culture X games, the Nissan Xterra's name expresses its target audience -- young, active, sports-oriented drivers who want an affordable compact SUV for other things than hauling groceries. After a redesign in 2005, the 2006 Nissan Xterra features one major change, a new base model trim. The X is base in its truest sense, with no power features. All trims (X, S, Off-Road, and SE) come with a 4.0-liter, 265-hp V6 and either a 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. Each one is available with either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. The luxury-oriented SE only comes with the auto tran. Once you get beyond the base model, the 2006 Xterra offers power features, a roof rack, a Utilitrack unit in the trunk to which you can attach bikes, and a folding front passenger seat for extra-long items, such as skis. ABS, traction, and front airbags are standard across the line. Side bags are optional. The Off-Road trim takes full advantage of the AWD capability and is truly a rugged and fun drive. It comes with all-terrain tires and the helpful Hill Descent Control which adjusts downhill speeds so you don't have to constantly tap the brakes. Being a smaller SUV, the 2006 Xterra only has two rows of seating, with a folding rear seat for extra cargo room. The trunk itself is made of plastic, for easy washability, and features many hooks and tie-downs. The engine provides a lot of power, and drivers love the rugged strength of the all-wheel drive. Lots of head and legroom make it easy to take friends along. Negative factors were a so-so radio, bad gas mileage, and a somewhat rough ride for rear passengers.