Though far from faultless, the original Nissan Xterra possessed its charms. With its everything-you-need-and-nothing-you-don’t marketing philosophy, rugged ladder-frame construction, bulletproof reliability, chiseled bodywork, and powerful supercharged V6 engine, the Xterra was a true sport/utility vehicle for people who really did have active lifestyles. Trouble was, it wasn’t much comfortable, and driving it on dry pavement was no fun at all.

Today, the 2005 Nissan Xterra is bigger, more powerful, and more refined. The driver’s seat is comfortable, the materials improved, the back seat bigger. Styling remains much the same, though I can’t help but think that the old one had a better-balanced and more dynamic appearance – probably because of the haphazard way Nissan has chosen to slap the badges onto the back of the new version while sharing front styling cues with the Frontier pickup and Pathfinder SUV.

As it always has, the Xterra did a terrific job of dispatching difficult terrain. At the Wildomar Off Highway Vehicle Park near Lake Elsinore, Calif., I covered storm-damaged trails with relative ease, and the new Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control systems proved their merit. But most impressive was the Xterra’s paved road demeanor. It feels much more responsive and stable, while retaining the truck-like ride that lends it authenticity in a world increasingly populated by wanna-bes. And with stability control as standard equipment on all but the base models, drivers can take added comfort in the handling capabilities of this old-school ‘ute.

Toss in a powerful V6, more rear seat room, added utility, and little touches like the integrated steps in the rear bumpers, and the new 2005 Nissan Xterra manages to remain true to its singular-purpose philosophy while appealing to a more diverse group of potential buyers. – Christian Wardlaw

Photos courtesy of Ron Perry and Nissan North America