Nissan's Xterra an authentic SUV

The 2012 Nissan Xterra sport utility vehicle is a rugged, capable off-roader with strong V-6 and authentic SUV ride and looks.

It's this genuine SUV character that differentiates the high-riding, boxy Xterra from today's slew of softer-riding, pavement-loving SUVs that have become popular with mainstream buyers.

To be sure, the five-seat Xterra, with its fully boxed ladder frame and rear suspension with solid axle and leaf springs, harkens back to the SUV basics — even if buyers can opt for leather-covered seats instead of cloth in the top model. And, Xterra offers iPod connectivity these days.

Still, to SUV purists, the five-door Xterra can be a refreshing vehicle that provides an old-school ride along with a new-car warranty.

Consumer Reports says Xterra reliability has been above average.

Just don't expect to get great fuel economy. The best rating the 2012 Xterra receives from the federal government is 16 miles per gallon in city driving and 22 mpg on the highway. A four-wheel drive test model averaged 15.6 mpg in combined, city, highway and off-road travel.

The Xterra tester was the top-of-the-line Pro-4X with fog lights at the front bumper, light bar on the roof and skid plates protecting the lower part of the engine in case it hits a rock or tree stump off-road.

Like all Xterras, the tester featured noticeable, large flared wheel wells, a hood that's chest high and flat metal sides devoid of decoration. There's even a step built into the side of the Xterra, near the rear bumper, that helps driver and passengers access items stowed on the roof during those off-road excursions.

Nissan also offers an Xterra tent that connects the cargo area to a tented sleeping and living area once a day's travels are over.

The 4-liter, double overhead cam V-6 is a longtime, award-winning powerplant at Nissan and moves the heavy Xterra along in sprightly fashion.