A body-on-frame SUV,as opposed to a crossover,the midsize Nissan Xterra is a fairly heavy-duty vehicle,with one version specifically built for off-road use. It?s a 5-passenger model,available with rear- or 4-wheel drive (2WD or 4WD). The 2010 model is a carryover from the previous year,except that some previously optional features are now standard.

The base-level 2010 Nissan Xterra X features 16-inch steel wheels,cruise control,air conditioning,power windows and locks,keyless entry,and a 6-speaker sound system. The Xterra S trim upgrades to alloy wheels and higher-end tires,power mirrors,manually adjustable driver?s seat,fog lights,and other exterior and interior enhancements. The Xterra Off-Road upgrades the wheels,tires,and shock absorbers,and adds an electronic locking rear differential. Other enhancements include skid plates,Bluetooth,Rockford Fosgate sound system,portable navigation system,and roof-mounted off-road lights. With automatic transmission,the Off-Road trim includes hill start assist and hill descent control. The Xterra SE features 17-inch alloy wheels,leather upholstery,and the Off-Road?s interior enhancements.

The Xterra?s ground clearance is 8.1 inches,and cargo capacity is 65.7 cubic feet with the rear seats down,according to Nissan.

All 2010 Nissan Xterras feature a 261-horsepower,4.0-liter V-6 engine with a 6-speed manual or optional 5-speed automatic transmission. (The automatic is standard on the SE trim.) Rear-wheel drive is standard. Four-wheel drive is optional on all trims but the Off-Road,where it?s standard. According to the EPA,the 2010 Nissan Xterra delivers 16 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway with manual transmission,15/20 with automatic transmission.

Standard safety features on the 2010 Nissan Xterra include anti-lock disc brakes,stability control,front side air bags,and side curtain air bags. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the 2010 Nissan Xterra the highest-possible ?Good? ratings in its frontal-offset and side-impact crash tests.

Starting MSRP for the 2010 Nissan Xterra was $22,750.