What To Know
- Power is sent to the rear wheels through a five-speed automatic transmission in the X trim and a six-speed manual transmission in the S trim.
- The X trim with four-wheel drive gets an EPA-estimated 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway, while the S trim with four-wheel drive gets 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.
- The Xterra X and S offer a range of technology features, but the S trim has a few more amenities.
The Nissan Xterra, a rugged and versatile SUV, has been a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Within the Xterra lineup, the X and S trims offer distinct features and capabilities. This blog post delves into the nuances of the Nissan Xterra X vs. S, highlighting their similarities and differences to help you make an informed decision.
Exterior Design
The Xterra X and S share a muscular and boxy exterior, but subtle differences set them apart. The X trim features a more aggressive front fascia with a black grille and fog light bezels. It also sports 16-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tires. In contrast, the S trim has a more subdued front end with a chrome grille and body-colored fog light bezels. It rides on 17-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires.
Interior Appointments
Inside, both trims offer comfortable seating and ample space. The X trim comes with cloth upholstery, while the S trim upgrades to leather-appointed seats. The S trim also features a premium audio system and a sunroof, providing a more luxurious experience.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the Xterra X and S share the same 4.0-liter V6 engine that produces 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a five-speed automatic transmission in the X trim and a six-speed manual transmission in the S trim. Both trims offer optional four-wheel drive for enhanced off-road capability.
Off-Road Prowess
The Xterra is renowned for its off-road capabilities, and both the X and S trims come with a standard rear locking differential. However, the X trim excels in this area with its Bilstein off-road shock absorbers, which provide improved handling and stability on uneven terrain.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The Xterra X and S offer similar towing and payload capacities. Both trims can tow up to 5,000 pounds and carry a maximum payload of 1,200 pounds.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is comparable between the Xterra X and S. The X trim with four-wheel drive gets an EPA-estimated 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway, while the S trim with four-wheel drive gets 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.
Safety Features
Both the Xterra X and S come with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including:
- Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
- Traction control
- Electronic stability control
- Front and side airbags
- Curtain airbags
Technology Features
The Xterra X and S offer a range of technology features, but the S trim has a few more amenities. The S trim comes with a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, while the X trim only has a basic audio system. Additionally, the S trim features Bluetooth connectivity and a rear-view camera.
Which Trim is Right for You?
Choosing between the Nissan Xterra X and S depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road performance, the X trim with its Bilstein shocks is the better choice. If you prefer a more luxurious experience with additional technology features, the S trim is a better fit.
Wrap-Up
The Nissan Xterra X and S are both capable and versatile SUVs that cater to different lifestyles. The X trim offers exceptional off-road prowess, while the S trim provides a more comfortable and feature-rich experience. By understanding the differences between these trims, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your driving needs and preferences.
Questions We Hear a Lot
- Q: Which trim has better off-road capabilities?
- A: The X trim with its Bilstein off-road shock absorbers.
- Q: Which trim has more technology features?
- A: The S trim with its touchscreen infotainment system and navigation.
- Q: Which trim is more fuel-efficient?
- A: The X trim with four-wheel drive has slightly better fuel economy than the S trim.
- Q: Can both trims tow the same amount of weight?
- A: Yes, both trims can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
- Q: Does the X trim come with a sunroof?
- A: No, only the S trim has a sunroof.
- Q: Which trim has leather seats?
- A: The S trim has leather-appointed seats.
- Q: Is the Xterra a reliable SUV?
- A: Yes, the Xterra has a reputation for reliability and durability.
- Q: Can the Xterra be used for everyday driving?
- A: Yes, the Xterra is suitable for everyday driving, but its fuel economy may be lower than other SUVs.
- Q: Is the Xterra a good value for the money?
- A: Yes, the Xterra offers a lot of features and capabilities for its price.
- Q: What are the main differences between the Xterra X and S trims?
- A: The main differences are in off-road capabilities, interior appointments, and technology features.