Nissan is gearing up to bring back a name that gets the hearts of off-road enthusiasts racing: the Xterra. After a 13-year absence, the rugged SUV is set to make a triumphant return in 2028, and it’s aiming to take on heavyweights like the Toyota 4Runner and Ford Bronco. Announced at a dealer meeting in Las Vegas on August 20, 2025, the revival of the Xterra signals Nissan’s bold plan to reclaim its spot in the booming off-road SUV market. With a focus on affordability, a tough body-on-frame build, and a modern hybrid powertrain, the new Xterra could be the adventure-ready vehicle many have been waiting for.
A Rugged Legacy Reborn
The Xterra first hit the scene in 1999, winning over drivers with its no-nonsense design and go-anywhere attitude. Built on the same platform as Nissan’s Frontier pickup, it was a favorite for those who loved tackling trails, hauling gear, or just cruising with a sense of freedom. Its boxy shape, high ground clearance, and off-road capability made it a standout in a world increasingly filled with softer, car-like crossovers. By the time it was discontinued in 2015, the Xterra had built a loyal following, leaving fans clamoring for its return ever since.
Nissan’s decision to bring the Xterra back isn’t just a nostalgic nod—it’s a calculated move to tap into the red-hot off-road SUV market. Vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner and Ford Bronco have been raking in sales, proving that drivers still crave tough, capable vehicles that can handle more than a grocery run. At the Las Vegas dealer meeting, Nissan Americas chairman Christian Meunier shared the company’s vision, showing off early images of the new Xterra. Dealers described it as “blocky” with an upright grille and squared-off headlights, a design that screams durability and purpose. It’s clear Nissan wants the Xterra to look as tough as it performs, ready to take on the roughest trails.
Built Tough: Body-on-Frame and Shared DNA
One of the most exciting details about the 2028 Xterra is its body-on-frame construction. Unlike many modern SUVs that use car-like unibody designs, the Xterra will stick to its rugged roots with a ladder-frame platform, the same kind used by trucks and serious off-roaders. This setup promises the durability and capability needed for serious adventures, whether it’s crawling over rocks or powering through mud. According to reports, this new platform won’t just be for the Xterra—it’s expected to underpin five different Nissan models, including the next-generation Frontier pickup, Pathfinder, Infiniti QX60, and possibly one other yet-to-be-named vehicle.
The decision to build the Xterra at Nissan’s Canton, Mississippi plant is no coincidence. This factory already produces the Frontier, making it a logical choice for the Xterra’s production. Sharing a platform and assembly line with the Frontier suggests the Xterra will inherit the pickup’s tough-as-nails engineering, tailored for those who want a vehicle that can take a beating and keep going. This shared DNA could also help Nissan keep costs down, which is critical since the company has emphasized that the Xterra will be “affordable.” While no specific price was mentioned at the dealer meeting, the focus on affordability sets the Xterra up as a potential game-changer in a segment where competitors like the Bronco and 4Runner can climb into premium price territory.
Powering the Future: Hybrid V6 and Beyond
Perhaps the most intriguing news about the 2028 Xterra is its powertrain. Nissan is reportedly equipping it with a hybrid V6 engine, a move that blends modern efficiency with the grunt needed for off-road adventures. This hybrid setup is designed to compete directly with the Toyota 4Runner’s hybrid option, offering a balance of power and fuel economy that could appeal to drivers who want capability without the gas-guzzling downside. There’s even talk of a range-extender hybrid system that could provide up to 75 miles of electric-only driving range. While that claim seems ambitious—especially for a rugged, body-on-frame SUV—it hints at Nissan’s push to innovate in a segment that’s often stuck in the past.
A hybrid V6 makes sense for the Xterra. It promises enough torque to tackle steep inclines and rough terrain while offering better fuel economy for long road trips or daily commutes. The idea of a range-extender system, where a gas engine acts as a generator to charge a battery for electric driving, could give the Xterra an edge in versatility. Imagine cruising through city streets on electric power, then switching to hybrid mode for a weekend of off-roading without worrying about range anxiety. If Nissan pulls this off, the Xterra could appeal to both hardcore off-roaders and those looking for a practical daily driver.
Taking on the Big Dogs
The off-road SUV market is more competitive than ever, and the Xterra will face some tough rivals. The Toyota 4Runner has a cult-like following, thanks to its legendary reliability and off-road prowess. The Ford Bronco, revived in recent years, has become a sales juggernaut with its retro styling and customizable options. Then there’s the Jeep Wrangler, a benchmark for off-road capability with a loyal fanbase. Nissan knows it’s entering a crowded field, but the Xterra’s combination of affordability, rugged design, and hybrid technology could help it carve out a niche.
Nissan’s focus on affordability is particularly noteworthy. While competitors like the Bronco and Wrangler can easily top $50,000 with options, the Xterra’s promise of a lower price point could make it a go-to choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want serious off-road capability. Pair that with a modern hybrid powertrain, and the Xterra could attract a wide range of drivers, from weekend warriors to those who need a tough vehicle for work or play.
Part of a Bigger Plan
The Xterra’s return is just one piece of Nissan’s ambitious comeback strategy. At the Las Vegas dealer meeting, the company outlined plans to launch 20 new or refreshed models by spring 2027, with the Xterra following in 2028. This aggressive push comes after years of challenges for Nissan, including slumping sales and a failed merger attempt with Honda. The company is betting big on new products to turn things around, and the Xterra is a key part of that plan. Other upcoming models include a redesigned Rogue crossover, a new Infiniti Q50 sedan, and an affordable electric LEAF crossover aimed at competing with Tesla and Hyundai.
Nissan’s Americas chairman, Christian Meunier, told dealers, “We are laser-focused on product, and we are just getting started.” That focus is evident in the Xterra’s revival, which taps into the growing demand for rugged, adventure-ready vehicles. By building the Xterra in the U.S. and leveraging the Frontier’s platform, Nissan is positioning itself to deliver a vehicle that’s both practical and exciting, with the potential to win back customers who’ve drifted to competitors.
Why It Matters
For those who remember the original Xterra, its return is more than just another SUV hitting the market—it’s a chance to relive the freedom and adventure of a vehicle built for the open road and uncharted trails. The 2028 Xterra promises to blend that classic spirit with modern technology, offering a hybrid powertrain that’s as forward-thinking as it is capable. Its body-on-frame construction ensures it can handle the toughest challenges, while its affordability makes it accessible to a wide range of drivers.
The wait until 2028 feels long, especially for a company that could use a win sooner rather than later. But if Nissan delivers on its promises, the Xterra could be a serious contender in the off-road SUV world. With its rugged design, hybrid power, and American-made roots, it’s poised to appeal to those who want a vehicle that’s as tough as they are, without breaking the bank. Whether it’s hauling gear to a remote campsite or powering through a muddy trail, the new Xterra looks ready to take on the adventure—and the competition.
As the off-road market continues to grow, Nissan’s decision to bring back the Xterra is a bold move that could pay off big. For now, fans will have to wait for more details, but the early signs are promising. The Xterra is back, and it’s ready to make some noise in 2028.
