April 7, 2004

New York auto show
All-new 2005 Nissan Xterra debuts

New York, New York - The new 2005 Nissan Xterra, to be unveiled at the New York auto show on Thursday, offers more power, more roominess and more features, including enhanced off-road performance systems, says Nissan.

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"The changes in the new Xterra are evolutionary, though with a capital E," said Mark McNabb, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "For 2005, we've made key improvements in the areas customers want most - power, driveability, smoother on-road dynamics, more interior space and cargo versatility and, of course, greater off-road performance."

Two of the most significant changes to the new Xterra are the use of a version of the new "F-Alpha" platform, which was created for use on the new Nissan Titan full-size pickup and Nissan Armada full-size SUV, and the utilization of a new 4.0-litre version of Nissan's VQ-series V6 engine.

Larger in nearly every dimension, key exterior styling features include large, flared fenders, a new versatile roof rack with latchable lid and a new rear bumper design with side steps for easy access to the roof rack. It also offers a large, powerful hood and headlights and Nissan SUV signature angled strut-style grille.

The 2005 Xterra's wheelbase has been extended two full inches for a smoother ride and greater interior room, yet the overall length is only two-tenths of an inch longer due to a reduced front overhang - which enhances maneuverability in off-road hill climbing and trail situations. The Xterra's width has also been increased by 2.5 inches, while height has increased 1.9 inches.

"Xterra has a very large, very loyal following - owners who love the combination of purposeful styling matched with practical size and functionality. Our task with the new design, which I think we've accomplished, is to update the look without losing any of the original's distinctive character," said McNabb. "You should be able to tell with just a glance that this is the next Xterra."

The 2005 Xterra will be offered in a choice of models: S, Off-Road and SE. Each is offered with standard 4.0-liter V6 and a choice of manual or automatic transmissions and in 4WD or 2WD configurations. It goes on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in early 2005.