11 Best Old-School SUVs

2015 Nissan Xterra
Base-price range: $24,520 – $32,500

Nissan’s answer to the Jeep Wrangler is a midsize-class, four-door SUV that shares its basic design with the Japanese maker’s Frontier pickup truck. Unlike the Wrangler, you can order an Xterra with either rear- or four-wheel drive. The 4WD system has an electronic transfer case, but it’s also part-time, meaning it can’t be left engaged on dry pavement. The sole engine is a 261-horsepower 4.0-liter V-6 unit that pairs with a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds, which bests the Wrangler by 1,500–3,000 pounds. All 4WD Xterras are quite capable off-road, but those with true wanderlust will want to pick the rugged PRO-4X model. It includes roof-mounted off-road lights, 10 cargo area utility hooks, and is available with a plastic-coated cargo floor that can be easily hosed off when dirty. An electronic locking rear differential, hill descent control, and available hill start assist allow the Xterra PRO-4X to tackle most any off-road situation. Its built-in navigation system will ensure you don’t get too lost. If you don’t need heavy-duty hardware, other Xterra models will give you a similar look at a cheaper price. This is a surprisingly good value for the money and is worth a look if you want an SUV but are on a budget. Just make sure you have some money left over for gas as EPA city/highway combined fuel economy ratings are 17-18 mpg.