A rugged, no-nonsense, truck-based sports utility, Xterra may be the automotive equal to a pack of Lucky Strike unfiltered cigarettes – not for cissies. Standing high and proud, with overtly aggressive styling along with a functional menace, the equipment surprises by lacking permanent four wheel drive.

Instead, it comes down standard with rear drive in the 4.0 litre engine. If you would like 4×4 capability you need to order up that option.

Transmissions are five speed auto or six speed manual, and suspension is independent in front and leaf springs in the back – in other words designed for durability instead of for comfort. As long as they can get within the stigma of driving-a “Nee-san” this is actually the preferred transport of wranglers and cowpokes.