2020 Nissan Xterra: Redesign, New Model, Release Date

Nissan has several crossover SUV offerings in the key segments in the US but since the discontinuation of the hard-core Xterra model, the brand has been without the genuine off-roader. The rugged body-on-frame SUVs are proliferating globally and after the arrival of the all-new Wrangler, another hard-core model to come in the US is the Ford Bronco. However, there are reports suggesting that the next-generation Nissan Frontier mid-size truck brand might also be launched the new generation 2020 Nissan Xterra.

Nissan already introduced the mid-size, global Navara pickup truck-based Terra SUV for the Chinese and several other markets. The all-new Terra took the place of the Paladin model which was the version of the Xterra for this market. The new Xterra should be heavily based on the next-generation Nissan Frontier sharing again the same powertrains and equipment. However, while Nissan already confirmed the new-generation Frontier, the brand hasn’t yet commented on the rumors about Xterra’s return.

2020 Nissan Xterra: Design

It was previously believed that the new generation Frontier pickup truck will be based on the underpinning of the globality successful Navara but the latest reports indicate that the US mid-sizer should use an upgraded version of the already exploited F-Alpha truck platform. If that would be the case, the 2020 Nissan Xterra would also use Frontier’s platform not Navara’s underpinning like the mentioned Terra SUV.  In any case, the new model will be extremely off-road capable while it should provide a more comfortable ride overall.

As for the styling of the model, there shouldn’t be big surprises. The look of the redesigned Xterra, if it returns, shouldn’t stray far from the appearance of the Terra model.  The new Frontier should also have much in common with the appearance of the global Navara truck.

Defining the front section of the model should be a familiar V-motion grille style but in the modernized form and flanked by big LED headlights. The profile of the model should get attention with the sculpted fenders and rear quarter panels.

Interior, Equipment:

The cabin of the new 2020 Nissan Xterra should lift the level of refinement and available technology considerably compared to the last version of it. The in-cab design should be similar to the already available Terra with some details and equipment tailored to suit the demands of the US market.

The model should come with the V-shaped center stack and new instrument and infotainment design. The brand’s newest Nissan connect system will provide smartphone support and there will be other connectivity options. The model will also use a modern multi-functional steering wheel and buyers will enjoy supportive seats treated with the leather and heating features in upper grades. The Terra SUV is available in seven-seat configuration ion some markets but we don’t expect this option in the US.

What should be the case if the model returns in the US is the availability of modern safety equipment? The model should include surround-view cameras and crash avoidance systems.

2020 Nissan Xterra: Powertrains

Nissan hasn’t yet revealed the specs of the next Frontier pickup and what engine range will be on offer. The brand promised, however, the new V-6 engine for the new Frontier and light-duty Titan trucks. The 2020 Nissan Xterra would also use the same engine range as the closely-relative truck.

The new V-6 engine should be a 3.0-liter displacement with the power production around 300 hp and combined with the 7-speed automatic transmission. The new engine should come as a replacement for the 261-hp 4.0-liter V-6 unit. There should be more powertrain options and some reports suggest a possible diesel unit. It’s not clear what solution Nissan could use in this case.

The Terra SUV uses various engine options including 2.5- and 2.3-liter turbodiesel units producing around 190 hp and some markets get 2.5-liter petrol. The 2.8-liter Duramax diesel with power around 190 hp could be a solution for the 2020 Xterra in the US.

2020 Nissan Xterra: Arrival, Price

The new more refined, better equipped and more efficient 2020 Nissan Xterra would fill the missing spot in the brand’s SUV range in the US but this kind of vehicle doesn’t sell in high quantities yet despite we can detect slightly increased demand. Still, the segment should grow further in the future.

The new Xterra should appear sometime in 2020 as the reports suggest while Nissan is still tight-lipped on this topic. The price should start in the mid-$20, 000 range.