2002 Nissan Xterra Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
More power, more features, and an updated front end usher in the third year for the Nissan Xterra, a compact SUV built on a truck frame and...
More power, more features, and an updated front end usher in the third year for the Nissan Xterra, a compact SUV built on a truck frame and offering true off-roading capability. The 2002 Xterra gets a powerful supercharged version of its 3.3-liter V6 engine, that boosts the 170-hp to 210-hp and helps with the 3500-pound towing capacity. The 143-hp, 2.4-liter I4 is still offered with the base model XE, while either V6 can be had on the XE or SE trim, mated to a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic.
To accommodate the supercharger, the 2002 Xterra gets a hood bulge. New rounded headlights and standard foglights are part of the front end restyling. Inside, there are updated gauges and 2 extra power outlets, for a total of four. The parking brake has been moved to the floor, and variable intermittent wipers and a rear wiper are standard across the line. The XE now has the option of a 6-CD player, and the SE's standard sunroof is now an option. The base XE comes only with rear-wheel drive, but both the 2WD and part-time 4WD are offered with the V6 engine. The 4WD has low range gearing for better off-road performance, and a new Enthusiast Package adds a limited slip differential, rubber mats, a front towing package, and a first aid kit to the XE. Adjustable roof rails are standard on the SE, with a built-in storage basket.
Dual front airbags and ABS brakes are standard on all the models. Seats fold flat, but the bottom cushions must be removed and are awkward to take out. Even with the seats up, the 2002 Xterra has 44 cubic feet of cargo space. The combination of rugged performance, storage versatility, and youthful styling have propelled Xterra sales far beyond that of the more staid and luxurious Pathfinder. Drivers love its looks, 4WD behavior in bad weather and rocky roads, and appreciate the elevated rear seats that offer extra visibility for passengers. Owners report the seats can be uncomfortable and both front and rear legroom is cramped. What makes the Xterra so capable off-road also makes it bumpy for day-to-day city driving, and drivers report wind noise.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2002 Nissan Xterra generally appreciate its reliability, off-road capability, and spacious interior. Many drivers highlight its ability to handle rough terrain and its performance as favorable points. However, several reviewers express concerns about fuel economy and maintenance issues, particularly with gas mileage being lower than expected."
This vehicle has everything we were looking for and more. 4WD, smooth ride, great cargo area, stylish exterior. A fantastic alternative to the ridiculously priced Jeep options.
July 14, 2021Every repair that has gone into it was well worth the trouble. Tough machine that has gone through a lot. Everything is great. Lots of fun to drive, excellent in the snow! Unreal machine! There is nothing better out there
July 23, 2009It is a great SUV, loaded with all the extras that come in the SE package. Has the 3.3L SOHC Supercharged V6 (VG33ER), performace is great on the vehicle. Great for offroading and 4x4 trips. Draw back is that it is not good on gas.... AT ALL!
December 21, 2010What owners say
This vehicle has everything we were looking for and more. 4WD, smooth ride, great cargo area, stylish exterior. A fantastic alternative to the ridiculously priced Jeep options.
July 14, 2021Every repair that has gone into it was well worth the trouble. Tough machine that has gone through a lot. Everything is great. Lots of fun to drive, excellent in the snow! Unreal machine! There is nothing better out there
July 23, 2009It is a great SUV, loaded with all the extras that come in the SE package. Has the 3.3L SOHC Supercharged V6 (VG33ER), performace is great on the vehicle. Great for offroading and 4x4 trips. Draw back is that it is not good on gas.... AT ALL!
December 21, 2010tow capacity is low, but great off roading capabilities
June 11, 2008I like the space this car offer along with the reliability and gas milage. The car is not big enough for a large family though. Never has maintenence issues. Normal upkeep and this car was flawless. Great vehicle especially the outdoors type.
November 14, 2011Fun to drive but it still rides like a truck. Not very easy to do a tune up on, but is reliable and fun to drive. Plastic front end is fading but thats S. Florida sun for you. The only thing that i don't like is the headliner is falling down. Otherwise it was a great buy and the whole family likes it!!
February 9, 2011It rips through fields, mud, and snow (unless you try to drive it on an unmarked snowmobile trail- then you're screwed).
June 22, 2008It handles really good, it's very dependable. It is easy to get into and out of, and for a tight suspension, it rides smoothly. The controls are easy to reach and operate, and it is a really nice little suv all around.
February 28, 2015i love it, its my parents car but it was the first thing that i ever drove by myself :) its a blast to drive and it gets the job done what ever it may be, i have the rear wheel drive version but it still handles great in bad weather :)
December 24, 2007Its a good car. I just bought one with high miles- changed spark plugs and did breaks. Alll is good. It runs great
August 15, 2020Trims & specs
Base MSRP $25,039 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.3L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 44.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $27,039 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.3L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 44.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $25,739 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.3L 170 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 44.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $23,739 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.3L 170 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 44.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $18,539 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.4L 143 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 44.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $19,739 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.3L 170 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 44.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $21,739 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.3L 170 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 44.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $23,239 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.3L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 44.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $25,239 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.3L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 44.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4WD |
