Nissan Xterra II (N50) photos

Arriving in 2005, the second-generation Nissan Xterra (chassis code N50) represented a comprehensive technological leap over the original WD22 while staying faithful to its rugged, utilitarian roots. Built on the larger and stiffer Nissan F-Alpha body-on-frame platform shared with the D40 Frontier pickup and R51 Pathfinder, the N50 offered increased interior space, a longer wheelbase, and refined on-road manners alongside superior trail articulation. Retaining the signature five-door wagon configuration with its stepped roofline, integrated roof rack gear box, and easy-to-clean cargo area with utility tracks, the exterior added rear bumper side steps for easier roof access. Under the hood, the previous four-cylinder and 3.3-liter V6 units were replaced by a single, substantially more powerful 4.0-liter VQ40DE V6 gasoline engine. Transmission choices consisted of a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic, offered with either rear-wheel drive or a shift-on-the-fly part-time four-wheel-drive system featuring low range. Dedicated off-road variants—initially badged as Off-Road and later as PRO-4X—added an electronic locking rear differential, Bilstein off-road shock absorbers, skid plates, and hill descent control. A 2009 model year facelift refreshed the front grille, upgraded the interior materials and audio electronics, and introduced roof-mounted off-road lights on trail-focused trims. The N50 was sold primarily in the United States, Canada, and the Middle East until production ended in 2015.