The upcoming Xterra is on its way, and it appears Nissan has listened to consumer feedback from Reddit and other platforms.
On Monday in Japan, Nissan announced that the new Xterra will come equipped with both a V6 and a V6 hybrid when it launches in 2028. It was previously stated that the SUV would incorporate a conventional hybrid V6 powertrain—meaning no plug-in option—to comply with emissions regulations, but Nissan has seemingly opted to produce a purely gasoline-powered variant for those who have reservations about an electric off-roader. The company confirmed that the V6 will still be part of the D-segment lineup, which means the V6 isn’t phasing out in the Pathfinder.
“We’ve observed the impact of switching from a V6 to a four-cylinder in some of our 42 platform vehicles. This includes the Pathfinder, Murano, QX60, and QX65. The feedback from customers has been clear; they prefer the V6—they desire the V6. It’s about the character, the driving experience that a V6 offers over a four,” stated Nissan North America Senior Vice President and Chief Planning Officer Ponz Pandikuthira to The Drive.
Pandikuthira emphasized that “investing appropriately in a V6 can allow it to meet the emissions standards comparable to a turbo-four.”
Significantly, the Infiniti QX65, which made its debut in New York earlier this month, will only launch with a turbo-four engine, at least for the time being. The three-row QX60 is also currently available exclusively with a turbo-four. A V6 could potentially be added for both models based on comments from Pandikuthira, and possibly for the Murano too.
One thing is for sure: Nissan recognizes that despite their sales, customers may not be satisfied with the fact that the Toyota 4Runner is only available with a turbo-four, and that most Ford Broncos come with a turbo-four under the hood as well. Customers seeking a V6 might find themselves attracted to the new Xterra.
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