In the cargo area, the Xterra boasts new conveniences, such as a channel lock system of adjustable cargo tie downs, a bin designed to hold one-gallon jugs of liquid, and a hidden storage area under a false cargo floor. As before, a first-aid kit is optional. Safety add-ons include available supplemental front-seat side-impact airbags and roof-mounted supplemental curtain airbags for side impact and rollover protection for all outboard passengers. It's fair to say that the 2005 Nissan Xterra is a completely different vehicle, yet it has stayed stubbornly true to the design philosophy of the first Xterra. Styling is completely different, but we'd bet most people would need to take a hard look to see the changes. The front end is shared with the new Frontier and Pathfinder, butched up for the rugged Xterra. Larger fender flares, integrated rear bumper side steps to ease access to the roof rack, and a taller and wider stance are further evidence of the redesign. But at first glance, just one thing is clear - this is a Nissan Xterra. All told, the 2005 Nissan Xterra - due at dealerships in early 2005 - is still the kind of vehicle you can get muddy, but now can carry a family in high-riding style on a nice clean road.
--Photos Courtesy of Nissan North America
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