Is the Xterra the vehicle for me?

[JCoop]

Well, the time has come for me to get my first truck.

Originally, I was really planning on getting a wrangler, however, after some research I realized that it just wasn't for me. I needed something a bit larger, and a bit sturdier. Plus, I doubt I would be able to get the wrangler dirty enough to do it justice =). (Don't fear, if I do end up getting an Xterra I plan to get it dirty by joining one of the local X clubs)

I've narrowed my choice pretty much down to the Xterra, but before I buy it I want to make sure that it can do a couple of things.


-Looking for a truck that can take me and some friends skiing.(gear and all)

- Need something that can take me from vermont(where I'll go to college) to New Jersey every so often, and do it comfortably.

- Need a vehicle that can go up steep inclines in blizzard conditions.

- Something I DON'T have to clean often.

- A car for around 15-18k.

Other than that I'm not really picky.


I have a couple questions about the Xterra models also.

- Do you think that I should go with a higher end 2000 model, or a middle of the line 2002 model(supercharged engine sounds good I hear)

- I've looked around, but I cant seem to find what the major differences are between the XE and SE models are.

- Does anyone buy an Xterra without 4WD?


Thanks for the advice in advance

-Josh
(Soon a possible Xterra driver)

*edit* Changed the word car to truck

[rrdstarr]

IF you do a search you will find most of your answers here or at www.xterraownersclub.com

[OffroadX]

Well, for $15-18k you'll definitely be looking at a 2000 Xterra, not a 2002 (esp. supercharged) if you want 4WD. Don't bother with the XE/SE, the only real difference is the sunroof and the stereo on the SE. Pretty sure the 01 added steering wheel audio controls to the SE, but otherwise there aren't any other exclusive differences other than minor appearance items (leather wheel/shifter, gauge color, etc.) that I wouldn't quibble over. Of course, the SE has all the goodies like cruise, limited-slip diff, power doors/windows/mirrors, extra power outlets, and an alarm, but those are all found on fully-equipped XE models too.

The Xterra will do everything you listed, and will do quite well in snow with a good set of tires. 31x10.50 BFG All-Terrains or Dunlop Rover RTs are my 2 recommendations for excellent all-around performance with very good winter performance too.

Oh, and it's not a car, it's a truck!

Brent

[evergreen]

the xterra is a perfect ski vehicle. my buddies and i haved loaded the x up and made week long ski trips from seattle to jackson hole, big mt. montana, whistler etc, etc,..
steep inclines in blizzard conditions are not a problem, just go slow.

don't waste your money on the supercharger. the difference isn't that big and your wallet will cry at the gas station.

if you get a silver x, the dirt doesn't show that bad.

yes, people do buy 2wd xterra's, and i am sure they regret it everyday.