Though sales of pickups and SUVs are falling, these vehicles still need to be updated from time to time. That time is the 2009 model year for Nissan Xterra SUV and Frontier pickup. The Japanese automaker has revealed that both models will be getting their front ends tweaked, along with new wheel options and optional Roof-Mounted Off-Road Lights built into the roof rack of the dam of the Xterra. The Frontier line will also get beefed up with a new PRO-4X off-road model (not shown yet, images coming later). The instrument panel of both models has also been upgraded with new displays and switchgear and new upholstery options for the seats. Nissan has also decided to make most of the Xterra's optional Technology package, including a Rockford Fosgate sound system, XM satellite radio, Bluetoth, redundant steering wheel controls and an iPod jack, standard equipment for 2009. It appears most of these changes are cosmetic, trim and equipment related, as no mechanical upgrades are listed except for the arrival of the Frontier PRO-4X model and its heavier duty hardware. In these times when development funds are being diverted to more fuel efficient offerings rather than trucks and SUVs, fans of the Xterra and Frontier should be pleased Nissan changed anything at all. Check out our high-res galleries below that also includes a pic of each interior, and we'll be adding more images as soon as Nissan makes them available.
[Source: Nissan]
PRESS RELEASE
2009 Nissan Xterra Again Offers Tough, Essential Gear For Serious Adventure Enthusiasts
– Enhancements For 2009 Include Revised Styling and Standard Side-Impact Air Bags –
The Nissan Xterra, created as tough, essential gear designed to inspire and facilitate outdoor enthusiasts' activities wherever they go, receives a number of enhancements for the 2009 model year – including a redesigned front end appearance, new Roof-Mounted Off-Road Lights (Off-Road only), new wheel designs, new seat materials and colors (with leather-appointed seats standard on SE models), new trim level content and standard roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.
The changes to the second generation Xterra enhance the differentiation between the four available Xterra models – X, S, Off-Road and SE – making it easier for buyers to determine the exact Xterra model for their particular needs and lifestyles. Optional equipment packages have also been simplified with two packages, Technology Package and X Gear Package, offered for 2009.
For a limited time, beginning at the 2009 Xterra's sales launch in July 2008, the content of the Technology Package – including an advanced Rockford Fosgate® audio system, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately, automatic transmission models only), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, steering wheel audio controls and auxiliary input jack – will be provided at no charge with every 2009 Xterra S, Off-Road or SE.
"Xterra, one of the best thought-out and designed vehicles in the segment, just got even better – especially with the Technology Package offered on every 2009 Xterra at no additional cost," said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.
"Since inception, Xterra has represented an authentic expression of adventure-focused design, both in aesthetic appeal and real-world functionality. With the enhancements for 2009, Xterra is even more in tune with the needs and desires of its active sports enthusiast owners."
Once again in 2009, the U.S.-built Xterra offers outstanding quality and reliability, along with strong on-road and off-road performance credentials. All 2009 Xterra models feature an advanced 4.0-liter DOHC V6 engine, rated at 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, along with a rugged "F-Alpha" truck platform for adventure-ready performance. The "F-Alpha" platform is shared with the full-size Nissan Titan pickup and Armada SUV. Xterra is available with a choice of 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmissions and in a choice of part-time 4-wheel drive or 2-wheel drive.
Revised Exterior, Enhanced Interior for 2009 While staying true to the original Xterra design concept of offering drivers "everything you need, and nothing you don't," the 2009 Xterra offers a number of exterior and interior refinements that helps keep the design fresh and exciting.
Xterra's signature exterior styling features include large flared fenders, a versatile roof rack with latchable lid and a rear bumper design with side steps for easy access to the roof rack. It also offers a large, powerful looking hood and headlights and Nissan SUV-style angled strut grille. For 2009, the shape of the grille and front bumper fascia have been modified and there are two new grille treatments – a Sandblast Aluminum finish for X, S and Off-Road models and Satin Chrome finish for Xterra SE models. SE models also receive a newly designed body colored side molding treatment. X and S models receive a newly designed black headlight inner housing surround.
Other exterior enhancements include new Roof-Mounted Off-Road Lights built into the roof rack air dam as a standard feature for Off-Road models, along with new side-step and roof rail colors and a new 4x4 badge on Xterra 4-wheel drive models. New wheel designs are also featured on all models, including a new 16-inch bright machine-finished wheel for the Xterra Off-Road. There are also two new exterior colors, Navy Blue and Red Brick.
As in previous years, Xterra features a long wheelbase for a smooth ride and ample interior room, yet overall length is highly manageable due to the short front overhang – helping to enhance maneuverability in off-road hill climbing and trail situations.
Xterra's flexible interior is spacious enough for up to five adults and their gear, with ample leg room, headroom and cargo room. A standard 60/40 split folding stadium-style rear seat with removable seat bottom cushions and an available fold-down front passenger seat (SE and Off-Road models) create added utility for hauling long recreational gear.
For 2009, the interior features a new center instrument panel cluster with a new fascia and new HVAC switches, new standard leather-appointed seating on SE models, new seat cloth an X and S models and new, unique seat cloth on Off-Road models.
Standard interior features include sporty reclining front bucket seats, footrest, dual front and rear 20-ounce cupholders, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, Remote Keyless Entry and cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls.
Xterra's versatile cargo area is highlighted by an available Easy Clean cargo surface and a total of 10 cargo area utility hooks – six on the floor/sides and four on the ceiling (floor hooks can carry up to 110 pounds). There's also an available built-in first-aid kit and space to securely carry jugs up to a one-gallon size. Securing bike racks and other accessories or gear is made easier with an available adjustable channel system in the cargo floor, similar in design to the Utili-track™ system offered on the Nissan Titan and Frontier pickups.
While maintaining its off-road adventure authenticity, the 2009 Xterra also offers a few necessary amenities, including an available premium 300-watt Rockford Fosgate®-powered audio system with eight speakers and subwoofer, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, MP3/WMA capability plus aux-in jack, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System and XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately).
A Rugged, Truck-Based Platform Underneath its unique exterior design, every 2009 Xterra features a fully boxed, all-steel ladder frame and a rugged suspension featuring a steel double-wishbone front suspension and solid axle leaf spring rear suspension, with stabilizer bars front and rear. Xterra Off-Road models feature Bilstein high-performance gas shocks, a rear tire deflector and skids plates covering the oil pan, fuel tank and transfer case (4WD only).
Powering Xterra is a standard 4.0-liter DOHC V6, rated at 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft torque. The engine is an increased displacement version of Nissan's VQ engine series found in the 350Z, Maxima and Altima. It features a longer stroke (than the 3.5-liter version) and has been specifically tuned for SUV and truck applications.
Like others in the VQ family, the 4.0-liter version includes such advanced design features as lightweight aluminum block and cylinder heads, Continuous Valve Timing Control (CVTCS), Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), silent timing chain and microfinished camshaft and crankshaft surfaces. Other engine features include Teflon®-coated pistons, resin intake manifold, digital knock control system, 105,000-mile spark plugs and high capacity muffler. The engines' Electronic Throttle Control system includes secondary mapping in 4LO (4WD models).
Two advanced transmissions are offered with the 2009 Xterra. An available electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission, based on the transmission used in the both the Titan and Armada (with an emphasis on acceleration, fuel economy and shift quality), or a 6-speed manual transmission based on the 350Z design but tuned for driving performance and fuel economy.
Xterra is offered in 4x2 or 4x4 configurations. Xterra 4x4 models feature a part-time 4WD system with 2WD/4HI/4LO modes and electronically controlled transfer case. Xterra Off-Road models include two advanced off-road technologies – Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist – as well as an electronic locking rear differential.
Other driveline components include engine speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering and 4-wheel vented disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD).
Wheel and tire packages include 16-inch steel wheels with P265/70R16 tires for Xterra X models and new-design 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with P265/70R16 BFGoodrich Long Trail tires on Xterra S models. Xterra Off-Road models feature new 6-spoke 16-inch machine-finished aluminum-alloy wheels with BFGoodrich Rugged Trail T/A tires. New 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels with P265/65R17 BFGoodrich Long Trail tires are standard on Xterra SE.
Advanced Safety Systems Xterra's list of safety features and equipment includes Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors, driver and front passenger side-impact supplemental air bags and 3-point front/rear seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters and adjustable upper anchors. For 2009, all Xterras also come with standard roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.
Other standard equipment includes the LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren), Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Available Models and Packages The 2009 Xterra is offered in four models – X, S, Off-Road and SE. The Off-Road model is available in 4-wheel drive only, while the X, S and SE are offered in both 2WD and 4WD configurations. Xterra SE comes with a 5-speed automatic transmission only, with X, S, and Off Road offering a choice of 6-speed manual transmission or 5-speed automatic.
The entry-level Xterra X grade offers a long list of standard features, including Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), power windows, locks and mirrors, Remote Keyless Entry, cruise control, engine speed sensitive power-assisted rack and pinion steering, 60/40 split fold-flat 2nd row seat and Nissan Advanced Airbag System (AABS).
Standard features for Xterra S include 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with BFGoodrich Long Trail tires, driver's seat lumbar support, Sandblast Aluminum step rails, Easy Clean Cargo surface and C-Channel cargo floor with four moveable hooks and front tow hook (4x4).
2009 Xterra Off-Road models feature Roof-Mounted Off-Road Lights in air dam, silver headlight inner color, black bodyside molding, fold-flat front passenger seat with backboard, unique cloth seat fabric (including red/graphite and charcoal/graphic combinations), sunglasses holder (overhead console), Off-Road badge on lower front doors, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with compass and leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Unique Xterra Off-Road model performance equipment includes 265/75R16 BFGoodrich Rugged Trail T/A off-road tires, rugged 16-inch wheels, Hill Descent Control and Hill Assist, electronic locking rear differential, high performance Bilstein gas-filled shocks and oil pan, fuel tank and transfer case skid plates.
The top-line Xterra SE features standard 5-speed automatic transmission, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 265/65R17 BF Goodrich Long Trail tires, leather-appointed seating, silver headlight inner color, trip computer, sunglasses holder, step rails, body-colored outside mirrors, door handles and bodyside molding, XM® Satellite Radio with antenna (XM® subscription required, sold separately), fold-flat passenger seat with backboard, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with compass and leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Two optional packages are available for 2009 – a Technology Package (Xterra S, Off-Road and SE models only) with Rockford Fosgate®-powered audio system with an in-dash 6 CD changer, 8 speakers and subwoofer, steering wheel audio controls, XM® Satellite Radio pre-wiring (manual transmission models) or XM® Satellite Radio receiver and black antenna (automatic transmission models) (XM® subscription required, sold separately), auxiliary input, and Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System; and an X Gear Package (S and SE models only) with roof rack crossbars, fog lights, first aid kit, cargo net and gear basket.
2009 Nissan Frontier Receives Freshened Exterior, New PRO-4X Model and New Value Truck Packages
The Nissan Frontier, a no-compromise pickup forged with premium hardware, extraordinary power and off-road athleticism, continues to be a leader in the mid-size truck segment. Improving its already impressive packaging, the 2009 Frontier gets updated with a new front fascia grille and headlight design and new 16-inch and 18-inch wheels. Additionally, a PRO-4X off-road model is added, along with new Frontier Crew Cab LE/PRO-4X Value Truck Packages (VTP) that offer an array of popular optional equipment at a greater value than if purchased separately.
The 2009 Nissan Frontier continues to offer an unmatched level of on- and off- road performance with the use of a 4.0-liter DOHC V6 engine with best-in-segment horsepower, torque, towing and payload specifications. With its strong performance, combined with good fuel mileage (17 city, 21 highway, King Cab 2WD), the Frontier is a fitting truck for work or play.
"The Frontier offers the capability and styling of a full-size truck, off-road performance credentials, innovative versatility and interior comfort. It's designed and built for those who are active, love the outdoors and want to maximize their life experiences," said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "And, the new Crew Cab LE and PRO-4X Value Truck Packages for 2009 make an already a strong value an even easier way to enjoy a new Frontier."
The 2009 Frontier is offered in both King Cab and Crew Cab body styles and in 4x2 and 4x4 driveline configurations. The Frontier, like the previous generations, is assembled at Nissan's manufacturing facility in Smyrna, Tennessee.
Bold Truck Styling and Innovative Versatility The mid-size Nissan Frontier emulates many of Nissan Titan's full-size features, including its bold, expressive and adventurous exterior styling. Frontier utilizes signature Nissan truck themes, including an angled strut grille, large bumpers, short front and rear overhangs and large, stamped steel, geometric fender flares. For 2009, Frontier features a restyled front fascia/grille design and new headlight design. LE models offer new 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, SE models feature new 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and PRO-4X models receive new machine-finished 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. Two new exterior colors are available for 2009 – Red Brick and Navy Blue.
Frontier again offers Crew Cab SE and LE Long Bed models. Measuring more than 13 inches longer than the Crew Cab's standard bed, the Long Bed models offer the roomy interior of the Crew Cab plus the usable bed space of the King Cab.
Frontier offers levels of innovation in areas where it matters most to truck owners – the bed. Both Frontier King Cab and Crew Cab models offer an available high-utility bed that includes a factory-applied spray-on bedliner and the Utili-track™ tie-down system. The Utili-track system, first introduced on Titan, provides ultimate cargo hauling flexibility through the use of five special "C" cross-section rails mounted in the bed (two channels in the bed floor, and one each on the bed side rails and the bed header panel). Removable utility cleats slide into the channels, providing a wide range of attaching points for securing cargo.
In addition to the tie-down cleats, a full range of accessories is offered for use with the channel system, including bed dividers, sliding cargo trays and modular storage units.
New Frontier PRO-4X Off-Road Model Frontier's all-new PRO-4X trim offers drivers outstanding off-road flexibility, pairing Frontier's already impressive list of standard equipment features with the PRO-4X's off-road performance enhancements.
The PRO-4X features Bilstein® off-road high-pressure shock absorbers, additional skid plates on the oil pan and transfer case, an electronic rear differential locker, 2- or 4-wheel limited-slip (ABLS) and unique machine-finished 16-inch aluminum-alloy off-road wheels with large BFGoodrich P265/75R16 Rugged Trail tires. Inside, the PRO-4X receives styling cues that differentiate it from the rest of the Frontier lineup including leather-appointed red-stitched shifter knob (M/T only) and steering wheel, chrome accent ring around the white-faced meter gauges and trip computer. The PRO-4X Value Truck Package (Crew Cab) adds unique black leather-appointed front seats with red stitching, along with 8-way power driver's seat, 4-way power passenger's seat, heated front seats, dual heated outside mirrors and rear fold-down center armrest.
PRO-4X King Cab models receive a factory-applied spray-on bedliner, bed rail caps, Utili-track channel system and four adjustable tie-down cleats (standard on Crew Cab). All PRO-4Xs feature body-colored grille and bumpers, outside mirrors and door handles and fog lamps. Added comfort and convenience features include cruise control, remote keyless entry power windows and door locks and dual power outside mirrors.
Multi-Flex, High-Use Interior Just as the high-utility bed offers Frontier owners an exceptional level of flexibility and utility, Frontier's interior features outstanding functionality combined with comfort and intelligent design. Both Frontier King Cab and Crew Cab feature large rear doors (rear hinged on King Cab) for easy access to the rear seating and cargo areas.
The Frontier King Cab features flip-up rear seats and both cab styles offer excellent cab storage and flexibility. Removable storage boxes are tucked beneath the rear seats, while the front passenger seat folds flat for added load carrying capacity (not available on leather-trimmed models). A dual glove box with lock, damper and lamp, center console storage, one-liter bottle storage integrated into the front doors and a multitude of cupholders and power points are standard. Frontier Crew Cab also offers an available leather-appointed interior and available tilt and sliding moonroof.
Power for an Active Lifestyle The heart and soul of the Frontier is its rugged F-Alpha platform. Starting with a full-size, fully boxed ladder frame, the F-Alpha platform provides a rugged foundation on which to build. Constructed of high tensile-strength steel, which is 90 percent stronger and 22 percent lighter than conventional steel, the platform improves structural rigidity for rock-solid performance on- and off- road. Frontier's long 125.9-inch wheelbase helps enhance ride comfort and stability, while the overall length of 205.5 inches (King Cab and Crew Cab Regular Bed) is a perfect "activity size" for buyers who don't need a true full-size pickup.
The 2009 Frontier shares its suspension layout and many component designs with the Titan, including its all-steel double-wishbone front suspension and solid axle rear suspension with overslung leaf springs and a long suspension stroke for optimized off-road dynamics.
Frontier provides exceptional acceleration, towing capacity and all-around off-roading ability, due in large measure to its powerful engine – a 4.0-liter DOHC V6 producing 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. The 4.0-liter DOHC V6 is based on the award-winning Nissan VQ engine series used in the 350Z, Maxima, Altima, Murano and Quest, but is specifically tuned for the unique demands of truck use. Besides smooth torque delivery, the V6 offers excellent fuel efficiency and smooth operation.
The 4.0-liter V6 design includes a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), silent timing chain, microfinished camshaft and crankshaft surfaces, Teflon®-coated pistons, resin intake manifold, forged crankshaft, digital knock control system, high capacity muffler, lightweight aluminum block and cylinder heads and 105,000-mile spark plugs.
The Frontier V6 is assembled at Nissan's advanced engine production facility in Decherd, Tenn., which also produces Titan's 5.6-liter V8.
An advanced 2.5-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder engine, with 152 horsepower and 171 lb-ft torque, is also available on the base Frontier King Cab 4x2 model.
For 2009, Frontier is again offered with a choice of transmissions – a smooth 5-speed automatic, a 6-speed manual or 5-speed manual transmission (King Cab 4-cylinder models). Frontier 4x4 models include a shift-on-the-fly 4-wheel drive system with 2WD/4H/4LO modes operated by an electronically controlled part-time transfer case. An advanced off-road traction system is available with 4x4 models. It includes a 4-wheel limited slip system, which helps transfer power to the drive wheels with more grip on low traction surfaces.
The available Hill Descent Control feature allows slow hill descent without the constant application of the brake pedal. Hill Descent Control must be engaged by the driver (via a switch) and is available only when the transfer case is engaged in 4H or 4LO (it works in both forward and reverse). It can be activated at speeds up to 21 mph in 4H and 15 mph in 4LO.
Hill Start Assist allows the driver to stop on an incline, release the brake pedal and not roll back for up to two seconds while the driver moves their foot to the accelerator for a smooth, controlled start. HSA is available on 4x4 models in 2WD, 4H and 4LO. HSA is designed for rugged, low-speed off-road driving situations.
All key underbody hardware is tucked up to the frame rails for a minimum 8.9 inches (4x4) or 8.6 inches (4x2) of running ground clearance on XE, SE, PRO-4X and LE models. Every 2009 Frontier also offers good approach and departure angles for exceptional off-road capability.
Other Frontier driveline components include engine-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering and standard 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Frontier is offered with a range of available wheels and tires, including 16-inch off road style wheels with rugged P265/75R16 white-letter tires and 18-inch wheels with P265/60R18 tires.
Frontier's maximum towing capacity is rated at up to 6,500 pounds (maximum, when properly equipped).
Advanced Safety Systems, A Variety of Models and Packages The 2009 Frontier includes a long list of safety equipment, including Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones, Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (which includes dual-stage front supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors and a front occupant classification sensor), 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Also offered are supplemental front seat side-impact air bags and available supplemental curtain air bags for side impact and rollover protection for front and rear outboard passengers, 3-point seat belts for all rear seat occupants, including center position (Crew Cab) and the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat anchor system (Crew Cab).
The 2009 Nissan Frontier King Cab is available in five well-equipped models: Frontier XE (4x2, 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder, 5-speed manual transmission only); Frontier SE I4 (4x2, 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder, 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission); Frontier SE V6 (4x2 or 4x4, 4.0-liter V6, 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission); Frontier LE (4x2 or 4x4, 4.0-liter V6, 5-speed automatic transmission); and PRO-4X (4.0-liter V6, 4x2 and 4x4, 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission).
The 2009 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab is offered in SE, LE and PRO-4X models, in regular or Long Bed body styles, each offered with a standard 4.0-liter V6 and a choice of 4x4 or 4x2 drivelines. Frontier Crew Cab SE models are offered with either 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmissions, while Crew Cab LE and PRO-4X models are available with the 5-speed automatic transmission only.
Available options and packages include the XE Preferred Package, SE Power Package, Value Truck Package (SE, LE and PRO-4X only), Moonroof Package (Crew Cab only), Side & Curtain Air Bag Package, Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS), Technology Package and Traction Package (4x4 AT only).
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