The 2014 Nissan Xterra->ke1160 checks a lot of boxes on the "Needs" lists of buyers, but even with its relative versatility, customers are likely to veer towards other models. This is not for lack of quality, but rather because it looks So. Dang, Boring.

But even if aesthetics aren't a particular strong suit for the Nissan->ke62, you should be happy to know that the Xterra is one of those SUV->ke145s that doesn't really care about its looks. It's all about its function and versatility and to be fair, it has both of those attributes in abundance.

That's what you stand to receive with the 2014 Xterra. It may not have the prettiest face at the party, but it's all sorts of smart and has the endurance and capacity to be by your side wherever you go. Whether its taking your kids to soccer games or heading out to the woods during a long weekend, Nissan's->ke62 resident off-road SUV can handle both tasks handily.

Click past the jump to read more about the 2014 Nissan Xterra.

2014 Nissan Xterra

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 Nissan Xterra
  • Segment: Array
  • Engine/Motor: V6
  • Horsepower: 261 @ 5600
  • Torque: 281 @ 4000
  • Transmission: Five-Speed Manual
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

The Nissan Xterra is as likely to win modern design contests as I could win a dunk contest. It just isn't happening.

But it's also not a bad thing.

See, the boxy shape of the Xterra is true to its rough and tough identity. So are the fender flares and the roof rails, which further adds to the industrial appeal of the muscular SUV. The Xterra knows what it is and is unapologetic about its design, even if a lot of customers will likely shrug at its noticeable lack of curves. But those who like their rough-and-tumble SUVs will appreciate the Xterra for its no-nonsense design approach, right down to that skidplate that serves as protection to the SUV's lower radiator.

2014 Nissan Xterra - Exterior Dimensions

Wheelbase

106.3 inches

Overall length

178.7 inches

Overall width

72.8 inches

Overall height w/ standard roof rack

74.9 inches

Track width Front/rear

61.8/61.8


2014 Nissan Xterra - Standard Exterior Features

- Rugged exterior design, long wheelbase and short overhangs

- Integrated front bumper, aggressive geometric fenders

- New Hyper Silver paint for grille and underguard

- Roof-Mounted Off-Road Lights for PRO-4X model (built-in on roof rack air dam)

- Large, powerful-looking hood and headlights

- Auto on/off headlights for PRO-4X models

- Highly functional roof rack with lid

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Interior

The interior of the Xterra follows in the same design pattern as the exterior. There aren't a lot of frills in the cabin, nor is there any complicated gadgetry that you usually see in luxury cars->ke505. Instead, you're going to be greeted by a plain and utilitarian dashboard that does have its appeal to those who adhere to the "less is more" adage.

Apart from the subdued dashboard, the Xterra's interior comes with everything you'd want in an SUV of its reputation. The raised seats, in particular, are a welcome addition, providing ample headroom that lets you have an unimpeded view of the road. There's also enough leg room to sit even tall adults comfortably and the three-passenger second row has the versatility to be folded flat to create even more luggage space at the back.

2014 Nissan Xterra - Interior Dimensions

Interior (inches)

Front

2nd Row

Head room

39.9

39.3

Leg room

42.4

34.4

Hip room

55.9

46.1

Shoulder room

58.3

58.3


2014 Nissan Xterra - Standard Interior Features

- Distinctive "multi-flex" interior with thoughtful cargo area and comfortable interior space

- Unique seat cloth with white contrasting stitching for PRO-4X models

- Optional Graphite leather-appointed seating for PRO-4X models with embroidered logo (AT only)

- 4-way adjustable driver's seat (X models) or 8-way adjustable driver's seat (S and PRO-4X models)

- PRO-4X heated cloth front seats, available PRO-4X heated leather-appointed front seats

- 3-passenger, split fold-down 60/40 stadium-style rear bench seat

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Drivetrain

The 2014 Xterra is powered by a 4.0-liter V-6 engine that produces 261 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque. It's not going to excite you with its top speed, but it does have enough power to easily have a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. Likewise, the Xterra is available in rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, but let's face it, if you're getting the Xterra, it's always best to opt for the AWD system.

As standard, the Xtrerra's 4.0-liter engine mates to a five-speed auto transmission, but the S and PRO-4X models can be equipped with either a six-speed manual or five-speed auto.

2014 Nissan Xterra - Drivetrain Specifications

Type

VQ40

Cam design

DOHC

Orientation

Longitudinal

Configuration

V6

Block / head composition

Aluminum/Aluminum

Displacement }

4.0L (3,954 cc)

Horsepower

261 @ 5,600 RPM

Torque (lb-ft)

281 @ 4,000 RPM

Bore & stroke (mm)

95.5 x 92

Compression ratio (:1)

9.7

Spark plugs

Platinum-tipped

Maximum engine speed

6,000 rpm

Induction system

Nissan Variable Induction System

Valvetrain

DOHC, Silent Chain, Two-Stage, 4-Valves per Cylinder

Engine mounts

3 solid (non-fluid filled) mounts

Recommended fuel

Regular unleaded


Prices

Coming at a respectable $23,110 for the 4x2 4.0-liter V-6 A/T, the Xterra offers a competitive price relative to its market. The top-of-the-line 4x4 V-6 A/T is priced at $31,090, but with it you get all the bells and whistles that come with the SUV.

Base Vehicle

Description

Suggested List Price

4x2 X

4.0 Liter V6 A/T

$23,110

4x2 S

4.0 Liter V6 A/T

$25,020

4x4 X

4.0 Liter V6 A/T

$25,160

4x4 S

4.0 Liter V6 M/T

$26,020

4X4 S

4.0 Liter V6 A/T

$27,070

4x4 PRO-4X

4.0 Liter V6 M/T

$30,040

4x4 PRO-4X

4.0 Liter V6 A/T

$31,090


Competition

Toyota FJ Cruiser

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If you thought the Xterra successfully applied its no frills look into its full package, the FJ Cruiser is an example of an off-road SUV that somehow tried to bridge its retro look with a funky body. It's definitely an acquired taste, particularly the round headlights, which, while nostalgic, we’re not sure fits into the overall makeup of the vehicle.

The FJ Cruiser is powered by a DOHC, 4.0-liter, V-6 engine that produces 260 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. The high displacement doesn’t bode well for fuel efficiency, although you can make the same case for the Xterra.

The price of the 2013 FJ Cruiser for the 4x2 automatic hits at $27,030 and $28,620 for the 4x4 automatic, a little bit more than what you'd shell out for similar trims of the Xterra.

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Jeep Wrangler

When you're talking about a vehicle that really exudes the outdoors spirit, the Jeep Wrangler is one of the first that comes to mind. Like the Xterra, the Wrangler doesn't pull any punches with the way it looks. It's the kind of vehicle that treats dings to the bumper as badges of honor, and that's a beautiful thing.

Where the Wrangler beats the Xterra, apart from the more natural outdoorsy look, is in the engine department. Despite having a slightly smaller 3.6-liter V-6, the Wrangler's 285-horsepower output trumps the Xterra.

Variety of trim models is also an advantage for the Wrangler, which includes the Sport ($22,195), the Sport S ($24,495), the Sahara ($27,795), the Freedom Edition ($27,995), the Rubicon ($30,595), and the Moab Edition ($32,995).

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Conclusion

The Nissan Xterra fits a the dual-purpose SUV segment in the sense that it looks completely at home as a true, off-road maverick that has no problem getting down and dirty, but it still rides well and its comfortable interior also makes for a good family hauler on those weekend trips to the lake.

The downside of the Xterra is its versatility. If you're looking for a hardcore grinder that's perfectly suited on the beaten path, the Wrangler's a better option for your money.