2009 Nissan Xterra Press Kit

The Nissan Xterra, created as tough, essential gear designed to inspire and facilitate outdoor enthusiasts’ activities wherever they go, receives a number of enhancements for the 2009 model year – including a redesigned front end appearance, new Roof-Mounted Off-Road Lights (Off-Road only), new wheel designs, new seat materials and colors (with leather-appointed seats standard on SE models), new trim level content and standard roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.

The changes to the second generation Xterra enhance the differentiation between the four available Xterra models – X, S, Off-Road and SE – making it easier for buyers to determine the exact Xterra model for their particular needs and lifestyles.  Optional equipment packages have also been simplified with two packages, Technology Package and X Gear Package, offered for 2009.

For a limited time, beginning at the 2009 Xterra’s sales launch in July 2008, the content of the Technology Package – including an advanced Rockford Fosgate® audio system, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately, automatic transmission models only), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, steering wheel audio controls and auxiliary input jack – will be provided at no charge with every 2009 Xterra S, Off-Road or SE.

“Xterra, one of the best thought-out and designed vehicles in the segment, just got even better – especially with the Technology Package offered on every 2009 Xterra at no additional cost,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.

“Since inception, Xterra has represented an authentic expression of adventure-focused design, both in aesthetic appeal and real-world functionality.  With the enhancements for 2009, Xterra is even more in tune with the needs and desires of its active sports enthusiast owners.”

Once again in 2009, the U.S.-built Xterra offers outstanding quality and reliability, along with strong on-road and off-road performance credentials.  All 2009 Xterra models feature an advanced 4.0-liter DOHC V6 engine, rated at 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, along with a rugged “F-Alpha” truck platform for adventure-ready performance.  The “F-Alpha” platform is shared with the full-size Nissan Titan pickup and Armada SUV.  Xterra is available with a choice of 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmissions and in a choice of part-time 4-wheel drive or 2-wheel drive.

Revised Exterior, Enhanced Interior for 2009
While staying true to the original Xterra design concept of offering drivers “everything you need, and nothing you don’t,” the 2009 Xterra offers a number of exterior and interior refinements that helps keep the design fresh and exciting.

Xterra’s signature exterior styling features include large flared fenders, a versatile roof rack with latchable lid and a rear bumper design with side steps for easy access to the roof rack.  It also offers a large, powerful looking hood and headlights and Nissan SUV-style angled strut grille.  For 2009, the shape of the grille and front bumper fascia have been modified and there are two new grille treatments – a Sandblast Aluminum finish for X, S and Off-Road models and Satin Chrome finish for Xterra SE models.  SE models also receive a newly designed body colored side molding treatment.  X and S models receive a newly designed black headlight inner housing surround.

Other exterior enhancements include new Roof-Mounted Off-Road Lights built into the roof rack air dam as a standard feature for Off-Road models, along with new side-step and roof rail colors and a new 4x4 badge on Xterra 4-wheel drive models.  New wheel designs are also featured on all models, including a new 16-inch bright machine-finished wheel for the Xterra Off-Road.  There are also two new exterior colors, Navy Blue and Red Brick.

As in previous years, Xterra features a long wheelbase for a smooth ride and ample interior room, yet overall length is highly manageable due to the short front overhang – helping to enhance maneuverability in off-road hill climbing and trail situations. 

Xterra’s flexible interior is spacious enough for up to five adults and their gear, with ample leg room, headroom and cargo room.  A standard 60/40 split folding stadium-style rear seat with removable seat bottom cushions and an available fold-down front passenger seat (SE and Off-Road models) create added utility for hauling long recreational gear. 

For 2009, the interior features a new center instrument panel cluster with a new fascia and new HVAC switches, new standard leather-appointed seating on SE models, new seat cloth an X and S models and new, unique seat cloth on Off-Road models.

Standard interior features include sporty reclining front bucket seats, footrest, dual front and rear 20-ounce cupholders, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, Remote Keyless Entry and cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls.

Xterra’s versatile cargo area is highlighted by an available Easy Clean cargo surface and a total of 10 cargo area utility hooks – six on the floor/sides and four on the ceiling (floor hooks can carry up to 110 pounds).  There’s also an available built-in first-aid kit and space to securely carry jugs up to a one-gallon size.  Securing bike racks and other accessories or gear is made easier with an available adjustable channel system in the cargo floor, similar in design to the Utili-track™ system offered on the Nissan Titan and Frontier pickups. 
 
While maintaining its off-road adventure authenticity, the 2009 Xterra also offers a few necessary amenities, including an available premium 300-watt Rockford Fosgate®-powered audio system with eight speakers and subwoofer, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, MP3/WMA capability plus aux-in jack, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System and XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately).

A Rugged, Truck-Based Platform
Underneath its unique exterior design, every 2009 Xterra features a fully boxed, all-steel ladder frame and a rugged suspension featuring a steel double-wishbone front suspension and solid axle leaf spring rear suspension, with stabilizer bars front and rear.  Xterra Off-Road models feature Bilstein high-performance gas shocks, a rear tire deflector and skids plates covering the oil pan, fuel tank and transfer case (4WD only).

Powering Xterra is a standard 4.0-liter DOHC V6, rated at 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft torque.  The engine is an increased displacement version of Nissan's VQ engine series found in the 350Z, Maxima and Altima.  It features a longer stroke (than the 3.5-liter version) and has been specifically tuned for SUV and truck applications.

Like others in the VQ family, the 4.0-liter version includes such advanced design features as lightweight aluminum block and cylinder heads, Continuous Valve Timing Control (CVTCS), Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), silent timing chain and microfinished camshaft and crankshaft surfaces.  Other engine features include Teflon®-coated pistons, resin intake manifold, digital knock control system, 105,000-mile spark plugs and high capacity muffler.  The engines’ Electronic Throttle Control system includes secondary mapping in 4LO (4WD models).

Two advanced transmissions are offered with the 2009 Xterra.  An available electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission, based on the transmission used in the both the Titan and Armada (with an emphasis on acceleration, fuel economy and shift quality), or a 6-speed manual transmission based on the 350Z design but tuned for driving performance and fuel economy.
 
Xterra is offered in 4x2 or 4x4 configurations.  Xterra 4x4 models feature a part-time 4WD system with 2WD/4HI/4LO modes and electronically controlled transfer case.  Xterra Off-Road models include two advanced off-road technologies – Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist – as well as an electronic locking rear differential.

Other driveline components include engine speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering and 4-wheel vented disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD). 

Wheel and tire packages include 16-inch steel wheels with P265/70R16 tires for Xterra X models and new-design 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with P265/70R16 BFGoodrich Long Trail tires on Xterra S models.  Xterra Off-Road models feature new 6-spoke 16-inch machine-finished aluminum-alloy wheels with BFGoodrich Rugged Trail T/A tires.  New 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels with P265/65R17 BFGoodrich Long Trail tires are standard on Xterra SE.

Advanced Safety Systems
Xterra’s list of safety features and equipment includes Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors, driver and front passenger side-impact supplemental air bags and 3-point front/rear seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters and adjustable upper anchors.  For 2009, all Xterras also come with standard roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.

Other standard equipment includes the LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren), Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Available Models and Packages
The 2009 Xterra is offered in four models – X, S, Off-Road and SE.  The Off-Road model is available in 4-wheel drive only, while the X, S and SE are offered in both 2WD and 4WD configurations.  Xterra SE comes with a 5-speed automatic transmission only, with X, S, and Off Road offering a choice of 6-speed manual transmission or 5-speed automatic. 

The entry-level Xterra X grade offers a long list of standard features, including Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), power windows, locks and mirrors, Remote Keyless Entry, cruise control, engine speed sensitive power-assisted rack and pinion steering, 60/40 split fold-flat 2nd row seat and Nissan Advanced Airbag System (AABS).

Standard features for Xterra S include 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with BFGoodrich Long Trail tires, driver’s seat lumbar support, Sandblast Aluminum step rails, Easy Clean Cargo surface and C-Channel cargo floor with four moveable hooks and front tow hook (4x4).

2009 Xterra Off-Road models feature Roof-Mounted Off-Road Lights in air dam, silver headlight inner color, black bodyside molding, fold-flat front passenger seat with backboard, unique cloth seat fabric (including red/graphite and charcoal/graphic combinations), sunglasses holder (overhead console), Off-Road badge on lower front doors, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with compass and leather-wrapped steering wheel. 

Unique Xterra Off-Road model performance equipment includes 265/75R16 BFGoodrich Rugged Trail T/A off-road tires, rugged 16-inch wheels, Hill Descent Control and Hill Assist, electronic locking rear differential, high performance Bilstein gas-filled shocks and oil pan, fuel tank and transfer case skid plates.

The top-line Xterra SE features standard 5-speed automatic transmission, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 265/65R17 BF Goodrich Long Trail tires, leather-appointed seating, silver headlight inner color, trip computer, sunglasses holder, step rails, body-colored outside mirrors, door handles and bodyside molding, XM® Satellite Radio with antenna (XM® subscription required, sold separately), fold-flat passenger seat with backboard, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with compass and leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Two optional packages are available for 2009 – a Technology Package (Xterra S, Off-Road and SE models only) with Rockford Fosgate®-powered audio system with an in-dash 6 CD changer, 8 speakers and subwoofer, steering wheel audio controls, XM® Satellite Radio pre-wiring (manual transmission models) or XM® Satellite Radio receiver and black antenna (automatic transmission models) (XM® subscription required, sold separately), auxiliary input, and Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System; and an X Gear Package (S and SE models only) with roof rack crossbars, fog lights, first aid kit, cargo net and gear basket.

The Nissan Xterra, created as tough, essential gear designed to inspire and facilitate outdoor enthusiasts’ activities wherever they go, receives a number of enhancements for the 2009 model year – including a redesigned front end appearance, new Roof-Mounted Off-Road Lights (Off-Road model only), new wheel designs, new seat materials and colors (with leather-appointed seats standard on SE models), new trim level content and standard roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags for front and rear seat occupant head protection.

The changes to the second generation Xterra enhance the differentiation between the four available Xterra models – X, S, Off-Road and SE – making it easier for buyers to determine the exact Xterra model for their particular needs and lifestyle.  Optional equipment packages have also been simplified with two packages – Technology Package and X Gear Package – offered for 2009.

For a limited time, beginning at the 2009 Xterra’s sales launch in July 2008, the contents of the Technology Package – including an advanced Rockford Fosgate® audio system, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately, automatic transmission models only), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System and more – will be provided at no charge with every 2009 Xterra S, Off-Road or SE.

All 2009 Xterra models feature an advanced 4.0-liter DOHC V6 engine, rated at 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, along with a rugged “F-Alpha” truck platform for adventure-ready performance.  The “F-Alpha” platform is shared with the full-size Nissan Titan pickup and Armada SUV.  Xterra is available with a choice of 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmissions and in a choice of part-time 4-wheel drive or 2-wheel drive.

Staying true to the original Xterra design concept of offering drivers “everything you need, and nothing you don’t,” Xterra provides a distinct “multi-flex” interior with an abundance of useable space, storage and convenience features – including an available Easy Clean cargo area, a tie-down channel system similar to the Utili-track™ system on the Titan and Frontier, 10 cargo hooks and a built-in first-aid kit.

While maintaining its “authentic” tough gear positioning, the 2009 Xterra also offers a range of advanced technologies, including Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, XM® Satellite Radio and an 8-speaker Rockford Fosgate® audio system with subwoofer. 

Highlights of the 2009 Nissan Xterra include: 

Body

• Rugged exterior design, long wheelbase and short overhangs
• New grille shape and color (Satin Chrome on SE, Sandblast Aluminum on X. S and Off-Road models), new front bumper fascia, body colored molding design (SE), new black headlight inner color (X, S), new side step and roof rail color (Sandblast Aluminum) 
• Integrated front bumper, aggressive geometric fenders
• New Roof-Mounted Off-Road Lights for Off-Road model only (built-in on roof rack air dam) 
• Large, powerful looking hood and headlights
• Highly functional roof rack with lid
• Available side running boards
• Rear bumper with side steps
• Body-colored outside mirrors and door handles on SE 
• New 4x4 badge (tailgate) for 4-wheel drive models
• Two new exterior colors (nine total colors available) – Navy Blue and Red Brick 

Engine and Driveline

• 4.0-liter DOHC V6 producing 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque
• Aluminum block with cast iron cylinder liners, microfinished crankshaft and camshafts, Teflon®-coated pistons, Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), Continuous Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), silent two-stage timing chain
• Choice of 5-speed electronically controlled automatic or 6-speed manual transmissions 
• Available 4WD system with 2WD/4HI/4LO modes and an electronically controlled part-time transfer case
• Available advanced off-road traction systems, including Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist on 4WD automatic transmission equipped Off-Road models

Suspension, Steering and Braking

• Independent all-steel double-wishbone front suspension with stabilizer bar
• Solid axle leaf spring rear suspension with stabilizer bar
• Bilstein high-performance gas shocks (Off-Road model)
• Power-assisted engine-speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering
• 16-inch steel wheels with P265/70R16 tires (X models), new 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels with P265/70R16 BFGoodrich Long Trail tires (S models)
• New 6-spoke 16-inch machine-finished aluminum-alloy off-road style wheels with P265/75R16 BFGoodrich Rugged Trail T/A tires (Off-Road models)
• New 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with P265/65R17 BFGoodrich Long Trail tires (SE models)
• 4-wheel vented disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD)
• Available oil pan, fuel tank, transfer case skid plate (Off-Road models)

Interior Features

• Distinct “multi-flex” interior with thoughtful cargo area and comfortable interior space
• New seat cloth for X and S models, new unique seat cloth for Off-Road models
• New available leather-appointed seating for SE models  
• New instrument cluster center cluster design with revised shape and color and new HVAC controls (S, Off-Road, SE)
• 4-way adjustable driver’s seat (X models) or 8-way adjustable driver’s seat S, Off-Road and SE models)
• Standard 3-passenger, split fold-down 60/40 stadium-style rear bench seat
• Available fold-down front passenger seat with back board (SE and Off-Road models) 
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel (Off Road, SE models) 
• Large center console, double-deck glove compartment, additional storage compartments
• Glove box lock, light and damper on all models; three 12V power outlets
• Available auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with compass (Off-Road, SE models)
• Available Easy Clean Cargo Area surface with flat cargo floor (S, Off-Road, SE)
• Available cargo area channel system, which allows flexibility in securing large items (S, Off-Road, SE)
• Standard Remote Keyless Entry, power door locks, mirrors and windows
• Standard cruise control
• Available 8-speaker Rockford Fosgate® premium audio system with subwoofer, 6CD in-dash autochanger, MP3/WMA playback, aux-in jack and steering wheel audio controls (Technology Package)
• Available XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) (Technology Package)
• Available Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System (Technology Package)
• Standard immobilizer with vehicle security system and alarm

Safety and Security

• Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors
• Driver and front passenger side-impact supplemental air bags 
• Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection
• 3-point front/rear seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters and adjustable upper anchors 
• Front seat Active Head Restraints
• LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) 
• Standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)  
• Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones

Models and Manufacturing

• Available in 2WD and 4WD drive configurations in choice of X, S, SE and Off-Road (4WD only) trim levels
• Assembled by Nissan North America Manufacturing Smyrna & Decherd Tennessee Plant