I too come from a bit of a "Nissan Family." I think most people on this board have a favorable opinion of the Xterra. However, I'm not sure of your basic needs and requirements in a vehicle. I've personally been very impressed by my '00 Xterra and would definetly buy it again. In comparing the X to the Liberty, might wanna check out the November issue of Four Wheeler. The article is a bit inconclusive, but does give a rundown of the pluses and minuses of each vehicle.
Dog