The revival and revitalization of traditional off-roaders is proving to be extremely popular with patrons, and extremely worthwhile with automakers, notably with fashions just like the Defender, Bronco and revamped Land Cruiser. There are a few exceptions that have not appeared to totally capitalize on this development, with one noteworthy instance being Nissan. Probably its most well-known off-roader, the Frontier-based Xterra, has been absent because the 2015 mannequin 12 months, practically a decade in the past. However after speaking with Nissan Americas Senior Vice President and Chief Planning Officer Ponz Pandikuthira, it appears we may even see a revival, but.
To be completely clear, Pandikuthira did not affirm an Xterra. However he did say that the concept is being “very actively considered.” Moreover, we discovered him to have a clearer thought of a contemporary Xterra than anticipated for one thing that is not really confirmed. One of many chief standards he listed was that “it’s got to be authentic,” and that it needs to be a “serious truck.” Mainly, it might’t be only a Rogue with all-terrain tires, however one thing with actual truck functionality. He additionally famous that it might each must be comparatively cheap, in addition to incorporate some trendy design particulars. Each of these sound refreshing in a world of extraordinarily costly and retro-styled off-road rigs. Moreover, that would appear to line up with one thing that Nissan’s Senior Vice President for World Design Alfonso Albaisa advised us about how he sees the chance now to have retro designs which might be extra delicate and allude to previous design cues with out being restricted by them.
As such, whereas we may see some retro cues and options, it appears to us that this hypothetical neo-Xterra would most likely be primarily based on an present truck platform, most likely the Frontier’s, which might be proper according to the unique, and certain what followers of the mannequin would love. Nevertheless it may not be as retro as anticipated, with nods being low-key and fewer apparent. Nissan has been releasing some fairly radical wanting ideas previously 12 months, too. Considered one of them being the Hyper Journey idea you see at high. That would present some design inspiration for the ultimate product.
These are our greatest guesses primarily based on what we all know, and so they usually appear so as to add up. The market appears proper, the usage of an present platform would preserve prices down and feasibility up, and it looks as if Nissan higher-ups have an interest. So we expect a brand new Xterra may have a great shot at actuality. If nothing else, it looks as if an incredible thought to us.