The new 2020 Nissan Xterra will be based on the new Terra SUV presented in China this year. The return of the off-road SUV was never closer, although the company is yet to confirm that. Well, we believe the Japanese company needs this off-road SUV to come back and compete with other 4×4 specialists. So, the very probable upgrade would be the Pro-4X package. Other rumors are mentioning even the Nismo version. But, we will know more details once the Nissan steps out with the official statement.
The new 2020 Nissan Xterra is going to grow compared to its predecessor. The last time it was in the US market, the company was selling it as a compact crossover. Now, the Xterra will use the same platform as Terra SUV. The question is – how will Xterra fit the existing Nissan’s lineup? The company already offers two mid-size SUVs (Murano and Pathfinder 7-seater). With totally different purpose, the all-terrain 4×4 SUV will be perfect for off-road adventures. That’s how.
2020 Nissan Xterra Specs
When the Xterra was in dealerships for the last time, it used a 4.0-liter V6 engine. Nowadays, compact SUVs are getting power from much smaller units. A 4.0 unit is still part of the lineup and the 2020 Nissan Xterra could re-attain it. However, a lot of improvements are needed, especially those which will boost fuel economy. This was one of the main reasons why its predecessors failed. Now, redesigned, the new SUV will be much lighter. It will save a couple of miles per gallon for sure. Improvements on the engine in past years are also leading to better MPG numbers.
The other solution is to borrow the engine from its close cousin, Nissan Terra. This mid-size SUV is available with a couple of diesel units (which are not coming to the US), and a 2.5-liter petrol drivetrain. With it, the new Xterra would bang 175 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. The 4-cylinder engine is a more likely option if the SUV takes the old position in the compact segment. On the other hand, the fuel economy saving is a big pro.
Pro-4X
This is the special package with unique features available only for two models so far. And both are US pickup trucks – Frontier and Titan. This suite will meet demands for the most serious off-road tasks. A 4×4 is the only option, while the 2020 Nissan Xterra Pro-4X is getting a heavy-duty suspension with Bilstein shocks. Body protection is on the highest level with skid plates under the body and all-terrain tires wrapping the wheels. The electronic locking rear differential is replacing the standard one.
2020 Nissan Xterra Release Date, Competition
The arrival of Terra SUV made the rumors about the 2020 Nissan Xterra explode. This was a very popular model in the first decade of the 21st century. Now, the comeback would definitely cause a lot of interest. Also, the SUV segment is growing in all ways. By adding the off-road model, Nissan is going to show Toyota and Ford their models can’t take over the market so easily. Still, the Xterra needs to be breathtaking to catch up with 4Runner and the upcoming Bronco. Ford didn’t release its SUV yet and the demand for this models is incredible. But, if some company can cope with such challenges, that is Nissan.
