Nissan Revives Xterra: Rugged SUV Starts Under $40K with Hybrid V6 Option

Nissan is reviving the Xterra nameplate with a rugged, body-on-frame SUV designed to compete in the off-road segment. The new model will start at under $40,000 in the U.S., positioning it against rivals like the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, and Toyota 4Runner.

Nissan Xterra Returns After 11-Year Hiatus

It has been five years since Ford reintroduced the Bronco to challenge the Jeep Wrangler, and two years since Toyota refreshed the 4Runner with its sixth-generation update. Now, Nissan is entering the fray with its own rugged SUV, reviving the Xterra name after an 11-year absence. The production version is expected to closely resemble Nissan’s recent teasers.

Teasers Reveal Rugged, Bronco-Inspired Design

Nissan has released two teasers showcasing the Xterra’s front and side profiles. The front-end teaser highlights a sculpted hood, oversized Nissan lettering across the grille (similar to the Bronco’s design), separate headlight clusters, and LED driving lamps below them.

A second teaser, posted on LinkedIn by Nissan, offers a side view of the SUV. The renderings depict a vehicle with ample ground clearance, black pillars, a black roof, off-road wheels and tires, and a side-opening tailgate. Additional features include prominent tow hooks, LED lights, and a spare wheel carrier.

Artist Renderings Show Off Xterra’s Off-Road Appeal

Nikita Chuyko from Kolesa created a rendering based on the first teaser, dressing the Xterra in a blacked-out lower bumper with a silver skid plate for a rugged off-road look. While the rear design remains unclear, the overall aesthetic aligns with the brand’s off-road ambitions.

Hybrid V6 Engine and New Body-on-Frame Platform

The Xterra will ride on a new body-on-frame platform that Nissan plans to use across several future SUV models. Two V6 engine options are confirmed: a conventional gasoline V6 and a hybridized version. Nissan has not indicated plans for a manual transmission, which aligns with current industry trends in this segment.

Competitive Pricing Under $40,000

Nissan Americas chief executive Christian Meunier has confirmed the Xterra will start at under $40,000. This pricing places it below the starting prices of key competitors: the Ford Bronco ($40,495 in Base trim), Jeep Wrangler ($39,040 for the five-door model), and Toyota 4Runner ($41,870).

The Xterra’s blend of rugged design, hybrid powertrain option, and competitive pricing positions it as a strong contender in the off-road SUV market.