Based on Nissan's Frontier pickup truck platform, the first-generation Xterra was marketed as a simple, affordable, and rugged SUV for active buyers. It stood out with its utilitarian design, featuring a stepped roofline to accommodate stadium-style rear seating and a built-in first-aid kit. Power came from either a 143-hp 2.4L 4-cylinder or a 170-hp 3.3L V6, with a 210-hp supercharged V6 becoming available in 2002.
The Xterra's appeal lies in its back-to-basics, body-on-frame construction, which contrasts sharply with modern unibody crossovers. It represents an era of honest, functional SUVs that are easy to work on and capable off-road. Enthusiasts appreciate its analog feel and practical features, making it a popular choice for overlanding builds and as a durable daily driver.
The market for first-gen Xterras is still very accessible. While pristine, low-mileage examples, especially supercharged models, can command prices near $20,000, the vast majority are affordable, well-used trucks. It's a great entry point into the world of collectible 90s and 2000s SUVs.
Buying Tips
- Check the frame rails, leaf spring shackles, and rocker panels for significant rust, which is the most common issue.
- The 3.3L V6 is an interference engine that requires a timing belt change every 105,000 miles; lack of records means it's due immediately.
- On supercharged models, listen for a rattling or grinding noise from the supercharger snout, which indicates worn bearings needing a rebuild.
- Test the 4WD system to ensure it engages and disengages smoothly in both 4-High and 4-Low.
- The knock sensor on the V6 engine is a frequent failure point and its location under the intake manifold makes for a labor-intensive repair.
Prices range from $809 for project-level vehicles to $18,750 for top-spec, low-mileage examples.
73 Nissan Xterra 1st Gen vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 16 currently live. Sold prices range from $504 to $123,456.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
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