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Off-road masters face off: nissan xterra pro-4x vs. toyota 4runner compared

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to...

What To Know

  • However, the Xterra Pro-4X has a slightly better fuel economy rating, with an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway compared to 17 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway for the 4Runner with the V6 engine.
  • In terms of value, the Xterra Pro-4X offers a more affordable entry point into the off-road SUV market, while the 4Runner provides a more premium experience with a wider range of features and capabilities.
  • The Xterra Pro-4X is more affordable and offers slightly better fuel economy, while the 4Runner provides a more premium experience with a wider range of features and capabilities.

The Nissan Xterra Pro-4X and Toyota 4Runner are two of the most iconic off-road vehicles on the market. Both vehicles offer rugged capability, impressive performance, and a host of features to enhance your adventures. However, there are some key differences between these two SUVs that may influence your decision. This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison between the Nissan Xterra Pro-4X and the Toyota 4Runner, helping you determine which vehicle is the best fit for your needs.

Performance

The Nissan Xterra Pro-4X is powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine that produces 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. The Toyota 4Runner, on the other hand, offers two engine options: a 4.0-liter V6 with 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7-liter V8 with 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of acceleration, the Toyota 4Runner with the V8 engine is significantly faster than the Xterra Pro-4X, going from 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds compared to 7.5 seconds. However, the Xterra Pro-4X has a slightly better fuel economy rating, with an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway compared to 17 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway for the 4Runner with the V6 engine.

Off-Road Capabilities

Both the Nissan Xterra Pro-4X and the Toyota 4Runner are highly capable off-road vehicles. The Xterra Pro-4X features a Bilstein off-road suspension, locking rear differential, and skid plates, while the 4Runner comes with a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), Crawl Control, and Multi-Terrain Select.

In terms of ground clearance, the Xterra Pro-4X has a slight advantage with 9.5 inches compared to 9.6 inches for the 4Runner. However, the 4Runner offers a wider range of approach, departure, and breakover angles, making it better suited for tackling steep obstacles.

Interior and Features

The Nissan Xterra Pro-4X and the Toyota 4Runner offer spacious and well-equipped interiors. The Xterra Pro-4X features a comfortable cabin with cloth seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The 4Runner, on the other hand, offers a more premium interior with leather seats, a larger 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a variety of advanced safety features, such as lane departure alert and automatic emergency braking.

In terms of cargo space, the Xterra Pro-4X has a slightly larger cargo area with 65.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down compared to 47.2 cubic feet for the 4Runner. However, the 4Runner offers a more versatile cargo area with a sliding rear window and a two-piece tailgate that can be opened separately.

Price and Value

The Nissan Xterra Pro-4X has a starting MSRP of $33,490, while the Toyota 4Runner has a starting MSRP of $36,620. However, the 4Runner offers a wider range of trim levels and options, which can significantly increase its price.

In terms of value, the Xterra Pro-4X offers a more affordable entry point into the off-road SUV market, while the 4Runner provides a more premium experience with a wider range of features and capabilities.

Which Vehicle Is Right for You?

The decision between the Nissan Xterra Pro-4X and the Toyota 4Runner ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for an affordable and highly capable off-road vehicle, the Xterra Pro-4X is an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize premium features, a wider range of capabilities, and a more versatile cargo area, the Toyota 4Runner may be the better option for you.

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re still undecided between the Nissan Xterra Pro-4X and the Toyota 4Runner, here are a few other off-road SUVs that you may want to consider:

  • Jeep Wrangler
  • Ford Bronco
  • Land Rover Defender

The Bottom Line

The Nissan Xterra Pro-4X and the Toyota 4Runner are both excellent choices for off-road enthusiasts. While they offer similar levels of capability, each vehicle has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Xterra Pro-4X is more affordable and offers slightly better fuel economy, while the 4Runner provides a more premium experience with a wider range of features and capabilities. Ultimately, the best vehicle for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Which vehicle has better off-road capabilities, the Xterra Pro-4X or the 4Runner?

A: Both vehicles offer impressive off-road capabilities, but the 4Runner has a slight edge with its wider range of approach, departure, and breakover angles, as well as its Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select features.

Q: Which vehicle has a more comfortable interior?

A: The 4Runner offers a more premium interior with leather seats, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, and a variety of advanced safety features.

Q: Which vehicle has more cargo space?

A: The Xterra Pro-4X has a slightly larger cargo area with 65.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down compared to 47.2 cubic feet for the 4Runner. However, the 4Runner offers a more versatile cargo area with a sliding rear window and a two-piece tailgate that can be opened separately.

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Mike Sullivan

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to guides and industry news updates. When he's not writing about Ford, you can find Mike cheering on his favorite NFL team at the local pub on game days.
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