2021 Nissan Xterra: Reports, Design, Release

Nissan is working on the new generation of its far the best-selling Rogue crossover SUV and the proof are spy photos of the prototype model spotted on several occasions. However, several reports indicate that the Japanese automobile giant might have another all-new SUV in prospect and we are speaking about the new-generation 2021 Nissan Xterra.

Nissan confirmed the arrival of the new generation mid-size Frontier pickup truck for the 2021 model year and several sources claim its introduction in September 2020. But reports also appeared about possible reintroduction of the off-road-focused Nissan Xterra which was discontinued after the 2015 model year. The new Xterra is reported to share the architecture and running gear with the next Frontier. Nissan also announced revolutionary styling changes for the new Frontier and that would also reflect the appearance of the all-new Xterra if it sees the light of day.

The redesigned Xterra should also come with improved interior comforts equipped with the latest tech and safety features as well.

2021 Nissan Xterra

2021 Nissan Xterra: Design

The last version Xterra prioritized ruggedness and availability over comfort and luxury while the 2021 Nissan Xterra should again feel at home off-road but with lifted interior comfort and sophistication.

The new Xterra would use the same underpinning and running gear with upcoming third-generation Frontier pickup. The last reports indicate that all-new Frontier won’t switch to the new platform rather modified F-Alpha underpinning with new electrical architecture to support the inclusion of modern tech and safety systems.

From the visual standpoint, Nissan hinted that a new Frontier truck will feature revolutionary design changes and that would also be the case with the new-generation Xterra if it gets green light for production. What Nissan means when saying revolutionary styling changes isn’t known yet as we haven’t seen the porotype version of either Frontier or Xterra.

Interior, Equipment:

There are no many details about the interior design of the potentially all-new Xterra SUV but reports suggest an improved comfort and sophistication.

The model should arrive with five- and seven-seat configurations equipped with the newest tech and safety equipment.

A new dash design should mimic that of the upcoming Roque model combined with the new multi-functional steering wheel. The model would also come with active safety systems available from the base version.  The upper grades should also offer premium comfort features such as heated seats, leather upholstery and more.

2021 Nissan Xterra

2021 Nissan Xterra: Powertrains

Nissan is working on the new V-6 engine for the third-generation Frontier which should bring improved performance and efficiency over the current 261-hp 4.0-liter V-6 unit. The new engine should be combined with the upgraded six-speed manual transmission with the addition of the new seven-speed automatic gearbox. Several sources suggest that a new engine will be a 3.0-liter displacement with the power output around 300 hp. The new power combo should also provide better fuel efficiency and be used in the 2021 Nissan Xterra if it appears.

The next Frontier is also a candidate for the electrified powertrain sometime in the life cycle. The turbodiesel option is also possible. It won’t likely be a 2.3-liter unit used in the global Navara version yet it could bean engine from the Duramax family.

The new Xterra, if it arrives, will again be equipped with the capable off-road gear and available in the PRO-4X version with knobby tires, specially tuned suspension, etc.

2021 Nissan Xterra: Release, Price

Nissan hasn’t yet commented on the talks about the all-new Xterra version. The brand launched recently the Navara-based Terra model for the Chinese market which effectively replaced the Paladin model a version of the Xterra for that market. However, the 2021 Nissan Xterra, if it comes, will be based on the new Frontier model with features specific to the US market. The price of the model should start around mid-$20,000 if it gets a new chance.

The reintroduction of the Xterra can be justified with the recent introduction of several hard-core off-road models that gained the attention of the public including Jeep Wrangler and Land Rover Defender. Ford is also working on the Ranger truck-based, all-new Bronco model.

Still, we should take everything about the 2021 Xterra with reserve as we haven’t spotted a prototype version on the road yet to support claims about its return.

3 thoughts on “2021 Nissan Xterra: Reports, Design, Release”

  1. So many are looking for the Xterra. None of the SUVs have this sturdy roof perfect for
    anything to be carried on: kayaks, carpets, bikes, name it!! The design isnt like all the
    other copy pasted ones. Please bring it back!!

  2. mark a fausnaugh

    the x-terra, please talk to previous owners. LUGGAGE rack a must, keep the luxury stuff for the Pathfinder for those who cannot handle some dust. NO driver lane assist!! NO heated seats, come-on! X-tera means ROUGH! We love the big front look, yeah, give it a better axel and some more HP. Do not cramp the seats again , cannot get your hand to the door panel pockets. Needs a night running light for the cab. Headlights ‘on’ indicator. Do something with the side windows. When driving and they are cracked, you get this wind vibration that makes you have to keep the windows up. just some ideas, keep it close to the same, because x-terra owners like it that way!
    thank you
    Mark Fausnaugh

  3. I hope the “box” design fits into the 2021 character; that’s what drew me to the 2007 & 2011 Xterras I previously owned. I now have a 2020 Rogue and I swear I feel like an 80 year old grandma in that thing. Bring back the Xterras and keep the sturdy and rugged design, along with the height of the older models. I feel like Fred Flintstone in the Rogue – my feet are almost touching the ground.

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