Nissan Xterra, Frontier Receive Upgrades for ’09

Nissan North America Inc. announces a bevy of enhancements, including new front fascias, for the ’09 Xterra SUV and Frontier small pickup.

The refreshenings come as sales of the two models have been slipping. In May, Xterra deliveries were off 45.0% to 1,914 units vs. year-ago, while Frontier deliveries tumbled 33.0% to 4,119 units, Ward’s data shows. Year-to-date, Xterra and Frontier sales are off 36.2% and 25.3%, respectively.

For ’09, the shape of the Xterra’s grille and front bumper have been modified, delivering a design Nissan says is “everything you need, and nothing you don’t.”

Two new grille treatments also are added – a sandblast aluminum finish for the X, S, and Off-Road models and satin chrome finish for the SE version.

SE models also receive a redesigned body colored side-molding treatment, while X and S variations get a new black headlight inner housing.

Other exterior upgrades include off-road lights built into the roof rack air dam, standard on Off-Road models.

The Xterra’s interior receives a mild upgrade for ’09, including a new center instrument panel with a revised fascia, revamped climate-control switches and new fabric.

’09 Nissan Xterra SUV gets new front fascia.

All ’09 Xterras are powered by a 4.0L V-6 rated at 261 hp and 281 lb.-ft. (381 Nm) of torque.

The ’09 Nissan Frontier also gets a restyled front fascia and grille design, as well as new headlights. LE models now will come with 18-in. aluminum wheels, while SE variations boast 16-in. aluminum wheels and PRO-4X models receive machine-finished aluminum wheels.

The King Cab 4X2 gets a 2.5L 4-cyl. mill producing 152 hp and 171 lb.-ft. (231 Nm) of torque. All other Frontiers are powered by the same 4.0L V-6 found in the Xterra.

Both the ’09 Xterra and Frontier are slated to hit dealerships in July.