The Nissan Xterra Reborn? Teasing the Enigma Nissan SUV
By Team Dailyrevs March 28, 2025
For off-road enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, the Nissan Xterra badge has a reputation for rugged, no-holds-barred capability.
Since its near-decade-long disappearance, might Nissan be gearing up to bring back the popular SUV in all-new electric guise? Recent hints and trademarks heavily suggest that the automaker has something large—yet small—in the works.
Let's dissect all we know thus far.
A Boxy, Adventure-Ready Electric SUV
Nissan has confirmed that it is developing an "adventure-focused SUV" for North America, set to be released by early 2028. Although the name has not officially been revealed, there are a number of indicators that suggest the Xterra will return:
-
Nissan trademarked the "Xterra" name in the United States recently, reserving its use until 2027.
-
Teaser shots reveal a squared-off silhouette, with a boxy profile and roof rails, with strong character lines and squared-off headlights—remembering the classic Xterra.
-
The fully enclosed front grille and illuminated Nissan badge confirm it will be a full EV.
-
Production is set to begin at Nissan’s Canton, Mississippi plant using U.S.-made batteries.
These details align with the Xterra’s off-road heritage, though a switch to unibody construction suggests Nissan is taking a modern approach rather than reviving the old body-on-frame setup.
Can It Compete With Off-Road Rivals?
If this SUV does take on the Xterra name, it will be stepping into a different landscape. While past Xterras rivaled the Toyota 4Runner and Jeep Wrangler, this new EV might compete more closely with upcoming electric off-roaders like the Jeep Recon and Scout Traveler.
How It Compares to the Original Xterra
| Feature | Classic Nissan Xterra (1999-2015) | New Mystery Nissan SUV (2027/2028) |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Body-on-frame (Frontier-based) | Unibody EV architecture |
| Powertrain | Gasoline V6 (RWD/4WD) | Fully electric (AWD expected) |
| Roof Rails | Standard, functional cargo storage | Raised roof rails, adventure-ready |
| Target Market | Off-road enthusiasts, overlanders | Adventure-seekers, eco-conscious buyers |
| Off-Road Tech | 4WD, locking rear differential | Likely dual-motor AWD with terrain modes |
Its success will hinge on:
Range & Charging Speed – Will it provide extended range capability for serious off-roading?
Off-Road Gear – Can Nissan keep up with Rivian's hard-hitting EV configurations?
Affordability – The first Xterra was famous for being an economical off-roader.
When Will We Learn More?
With Nissan's production schedule looking at late 2027, a reveal as early as 2025 or 2026 is possible. Rumors indicate that Nissan could unveil a concept version at the 2025 SEMA Show under the codename "X."
Nissan is developing an adventure-focused electric SUV for 2027-2028.
-
A recent Xterra trademark renewal hints at a potential nameplate revival.
-
The SUV will likely feature a rugged design, dual-motor AWD, and off-road capability.
-
It could compete with electric adventure SUVs like the Jeep Recon and Rivian R3.
-
More details may emerge by 2025, with a concept potentially appearing at SEMA.