Extreme adventure - that's what the 2009 Nissan Xterra is designed for. The little brother of the Nissan Pathfinder, the Xterra serves as the least expensive member of Nissan's exploration team. While the Pathfinder is stretched on its wheelbase to accommodate more passengers, the Xterra presents the same abilities to get down and dirty for a base model price difference of $4500. It also packs a lot of attitude in its small profile. While the Pathfinder presents a more refined, luxurious appearance, the Xterra looks like an exuberant sports star - ready and willing to hit the dirt anytime.

The Nissan Xterra is a bare-bones player - it enjoys the thrills presented to it by Generation-Y and as such offers nothing that you don't need, but everything that you do. There are a few luxuries like keyless entry, power locks and windows and cruise control, but that's really about it. Typical luxuries found in so many other vehicles are replaced in the Xterra by things like first aid kits and standard step-up railings. Oh yeah, there is an option for BlueTooth phone systems and XM Satellite Radio if you are so inclined.

Power is provided by a 4.0L 261hp VQ V6 that pumps out 281 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm with the assistance of the standard 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive. That's the same engine used in the 350Z by the way. This truck-style SUV is capable of towing up to 5000 pounds of your favorite boat, camper or trailer loaded with dirt bikes. It can also haul over 1100 pounds of your gear, luggage or crazy friends. The Nissan Xterra takes its role as a serious competitor to heart. It is the real deal for outdoorsy adventures - so unlike many of the wannabe posers in its class.

There are four trims available: the X, S, Off-Road and SE and all are 4WD. Body measurements are 178.7" x 72.8" x 74.0" (L x W x H) and ground clearance stands at 9.1" - almost as tall as the Hummer H3T. The 2009 Xterras all weigh in at 5400 pound of gross weight. Coincidentally, the wheelbase for all trims is 106.3". The X, S and Off-Road trims grant drivers 16/20 mpg city/highway while the SE trim produces 14/20. Fuel tanks hold 21.1 gallons.

Nissan knows that extreme adventure requires loads of safety measures to be taken. The advanced airbag system has you well-covered as does the standard 3-point seat belts with electronic pretensioners. Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), ABS braking and electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) systems further act to ensure your safe fun.

The 2009 Nissan Xterra is made for muddin'! It has been designed with off-road adventure in mind and makes absolutely no apologies for that. It outshines many of its class competitors because it stands true to its calling. If you want a vehicle that can get you out there and back home in safe, dependable and ultimately-fun style, then check out a Nissan Xterra today.