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Full 2014 Nissan Xterra Review
What's New for 2014
All 2014 Nissan Xterras get Bluetooth phone connectivity and steering wheel-mounted audio controls as standard equipment. In addition, heated cloth seats and smartphone app integration (with Internet radio streaming) are now standard on the Pro-4X model, while heated leather seats are a new option. There are also new alloy wheel designs this year.
Introduction
Although crossover SUVs make more sense for the majority of today's shoppers, traditional, truck-based utility vehicles like the 2014 Nissan Xterra still have their place. The Xterra is a function-over-form, midsize five-passenger SUV aimed at buyers who truly enjoy the great outdoors and want a vehicle that can take them well off the beaten path. With that mission in mind, the Xterra has a simple, easy-to-clean interior with compartments for muddy gear. It also has quite a bit of off-road capability thanks to a rugged suspension and an available four-wheel-drive system.
For buyers who regularly seek out dirt- and snow-packed trails, the 2014 Xterra offers a pretty compelling package. It also has a pretty comfortable and civilized ride compared with other off-road-themed body-on-frame SUVs. And with a standard 4.0-liter V6 engine, it's certainly not slow. But if you drive it back to back with any of the more modern crossovers in this price range, it's bound to feel rudimentary, even crude. Handling around turns is rather clumsy, and inside, there's no disguising the Nissan's abundance of hard plastic surfaces. The availability of Bluetooth across the line this year is certainly welcome, though, and if you spring for the 2014 Xterra Pro-4X, you'll have the ability to stream Pandora and iHeartRadio -- provided your smartphone has cell service in whatever remote location you're exploring.
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