Thoughts from the Curb

Jan 5, 2009 - 2009 Nissan Xterra: A Miata for the Casual Off-Roader

Even though I've driven most truck-based SUVs presently sold, I rarely get a chance to drive them. That's mostly because many are old models and therefore don't visit our garage, but also because they are quite simply a dying breed outnumbered by a whole heap of unibody crossovers better suited to the car-buying public.

While truck utes like the Kia Borrego and Chevy Tahoe try their damndest to mask their true nature, the 2009 Nissan Xterra does not -- and it doesn't have to. Like the Jeep Wrangler and the Toyota FJ Cruiser, the Xterra is intended to be driven off-road and doesn't hide from the fact. If you don't like the rough ride, the stiff steering at low speeds and the three-foot climb into the cabin, buy a Rogue.

But somehow, even though the relatively new Xterra is unabashedly old school, I felt a lot more connected to it than so many crossovers like the Rogue. That stiff hydraulic steering at low speeds is well-weighted at higher ones, plus a ton more communicative than its soft-roading sister's electric setup. That rough ride makes me feel more connected to the road as well, plus the truck-like roar of the engine makes me feel all macho. The FJ Cruiser is the same way and I love it. If I lived in Colorado or somewhere, I'd much sooner own one of these than a RAV or Rogue.

Subsequently, while the Explorers of this world may eventually die (the Durango's already dead), I think smaller truck-based SUVs like the FJ, Wrangler and Xterra will maintain a token, dedicated fan base. They are the Miatas of the casual off-road crowd.

-James Riswick

9:30 am | Categories: car reviews Permalink | Alert Administrator

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