The Nissan Xterra is factory-designed to accommodate tires up to 35 inches, with the option for 37-inch tires available in the aftermarket.
Nissan
The latest car news and reviews, without the fluff.
Our daily newsletter delivers the important stories straight to your inbox every weekday.
This week has been exciting for Nissan Xterra enthusiasts. It appears that fans of the brand will soon be rewarded with the return of the legendary nameplate in 2028.
On Wednesday in Yokohama, Japan, Chairman of Nissan Americas, Christian Meunier, announced that the new Xterra will be factory-ready for tires up to 35 inches, with the possibility of 37 inches or more in the aftermarket.
Nissan North America’s Senior Vice President and Chief Planning Officer, Ponz Pandikuthira, elaborated on Meunier’s tire size remarks, stating, “The car will serve as a platform that allows easy adaptations for aftermarket additions such as lift kits and larger wheels and tires, as well as fender flares.”
Meunier added, “We will actively collaborate with the aftermarket to ensure the vehicle can be customized in ways we typically can’t accommodate at the factory. My goal is to showcase it at SEMA next year to generate excitement and interest among aftermarket suppliers.”
Earlier that day, Meunier hinted at the Xterra's return with a second image for the week, simply saying, “Badass is back.”
On Monday, we got our first glimpse of the Xterra's front design, which looks robust, blocky, and contemporary.
Nissan has confirmed that the Xterra will feature a body-on-frame construction and will be offered with both a V6 and a hybrid V6 engine option, with no turbocharged four-cylinder in the lineup. It is expected to come with four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case.
In November, The Drive reported exclusively that the Xterra will be priced below $40,000 when it debuts in 2028. Meunier reinforced this price point on Wednesday, stating, “I’m bringing an Xterra with all the essentials and none of the extras, echoing the slogan we used in 2002, which we believe aligns with what the brand needs.”
Nissan is currently implementing a turnaround strategy aimed at streamlining the product range, reducing expenses, and retaining key offerings. Newly appointed CEO Ivan Espinosa told The Drive in February to convey to enthusiasts that “Nissan is back.” Thus far, things appear to be progressing positively for both the brand and its devoted fans.
Only time will tell.
Have a tip about future products? Reach out to us at tips@thedrive.com.
Other articles
The Nissan Xterra is factory-designed to accommodate tires up to 35 inches, with the option for 37-inch tires available in the aftermarket.
"The car will serve as a canvas," the head of Nissan America mentioned to The Drive when talking about the forthcoming Xterra.
