Xterra Exhaust System Tips

Introduced in 2000, the Nissan Xterra is a five passenger sport utility vehicle built on a traditional truck platform. Available in 4×2 and 4×4 configurations, this body on frame SUV is now in its second generation, and competes against the Toyota FJ Cruiser, various Jeep models, the Ford Explorer and older GM models including the Chevy TrailBlazer.

First Generation

Smaller and lighter than the second generation Nissan Xterra, the first generation model offered a 2.4-liter four cylinder engine standard or a 3.3-liter V-6 optionally with the 4×2 model while the 4×4 model was powered only by the V-6. That four cylinder engine is paired with a five speed manual and rated at 143 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 154 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm. This model has a 3,500 pound towing limit.

Whether equipped with a two- or four-wheel drive, the V-6 is rated at 170 horsepower at 4,800 rpm and 200 foot-pounds of torque at 2,800 rpm, and has a 5,000 pound towing capacity. Nissan offered a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission with the earliest Xterras.

Second Generation

The current generation Xterra has been on the market since 2005 and has been powered by a 4.0-liter V-6 engine paired with a 6-speed manual or 5-speed manual transmission. This engine is rated at 261 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 281 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm. As before, the V-6 features a 5,000 pound towing capacity; this model is available in four trim levels.

Nissan Xterra enthusiasts are well aware of the model’s off-road capabilities and, as such, have their rides ready to take on dirt road, mud path and trail alike. As delivered from the factory, 4×4 Xterras can handle most off-road conditions. However, for serious off-road duty, owners are best served by obtaining grill guards, deflectors and side window deflectors when powering their way through thick brush.

To ensure that the undercarriage remains unscathed, full-on lift kits paired with custom wheels and tires can lift your Xterra above some of the worst conditions you’ll encounter. Leveling kits can raise either the front, rear or both ends of the Nissan Xterra, helping it to maintain the same ride Nissan intended, but at a higher altitude of course.

Lastly, what Nissan Xterra couldn’t benefit from an aerodynamic rooftop storage bag? When your Xterra’s storage area is maxed out, a hard or soft cover storage unit looks great and functions well, extending your SUV’s storage capacity by several cubic feet is certainly possible and sensible.

Some brands offering exhaust parts and systems for the Xterra:

• Magnaflow
• Gibson