Nissan plans to relaunch Xterra in late 2028 with a sub-US$40,000 starting price.
The automaker expects annual Xterra sales to exceed 50,000 units.
Shared architecture will support Xterra, Frontier, Infiniti models and a three-row SUV.
Nissan has confirmed the Xterra’s return as part of a new body-on-frame vehicle program headed for North America, with the automaker setting an aggressive entry-price target of less than US$40,000 (approx. CA$55,500) and annual volume expectations above 50,000 units.
The new Xterra is scheduled to arrive in late 2028. Nissan executives say the model is intended to re-establish the brand in a part of the SUV market that values off-road credibility, durability and a more rugged driving character than typical car-based crossovers deliver. If Nissan could turn back time, it would have never killed the Xterra back in 2015.
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Nissan’s got big plans for a truck-based strategy built around the revived Xterra. The program should include a three-row midsize SUV, the other Pathfinder, while Infiniti will also receive related versions derived from the same architecture.
Nissan Americas Chairman and French-speaker Christian Meunier said the company wants the Xterra to reflect core brand values such as affordability, durability and quality, without adding unnecessary complexity that would push pricing out of reach. This cost discipline is central to the program as vehicle affordability remains a challenge. It also remains to be seen…
Nissan sees an opportunity in the Xterra nameplate’s remaining recognition. The company believes former owners who bought the original SUV years ago may now be in a better financial position and interested in a practical, capable model with a stronger emotional appeal than a conventional crossover.
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Nissan Americas product planning chief Ponz Pandikuthira said the automaker has focused on a specific execution for both the Xterra and its three-row derivative to shine in these highly competitive segments. Internally, Nissan has pointed to Kia’s Telluride as an example of how a well-positioned entrant can exceed expectations. Pricing, value, and design are key to the Telluride’s success.
Using body-on-frame construction will add mass and expense compared with unibody crossovers, but Nissan is willing to accept that trade-off to deliver a more truck-like product, in line with the Toyota 4Runner and Ford Bronco. Planned powertrains include V6 and V6 hybrid options, combining towing and off-road capability with improved fuel efficiency.
2006 Nissan Xterra | Photo: NissanThe platform will also support the next-generation Frontier and the Infiniti QX60, according to Nissan’s product plan. Shared engineering will play a major role in controlling cost, with sources indicating about 70% parts commonality across the lineup and shared components forward of the B-pillar.
Currently, the 2026 Toyota 4Runner starts at $58,500, while a 4-door 2026 Ford Bronco starts at $56,400. Assuming both will surpass the $60,000 mark come 2028, a new $55,500 2028 Nissan Xterra should do well.
Source: Automotive News
