2012 Nissan Xterra: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Nissan Xterra is a true carryover with no major changes from 2011. Its trim lineup, 261-hp V6, styling, safety equipment, and technology remain essentially unchanged.
About the 2012 Nissan Xterra
2nd generation (2005-2015), late-cycle year after the 2009 update; no redesign or major refresh for 2012.
Nissan positions the Xterra as a simple, real-SUV alternative to softer crossovers: body-on-frame construction, strong V6 power, flexible cargo space, and genuine trail ability in a still-manageable size. The message is basically “everything you need and nothing you don’t.” Buyers chose it for camping, trails, snow, towing light gear, and messy cargo, not for a plush cabin or the newest in-dash tech.
The 2012 Xterra is offered in straightforward X, better-equipped S, and trail-focused PRO-4X trims. The X covers the basics, while the S adds useful cargo hardware and a more adjustable driver’s seat. The PRO-4X stands out with four-wheel drive, off-road shocks, skid plates, a locking rear differential, roof-mounted driving lights, and upgraded audio.
2012 Nissan Xterra specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 16 mpg | 15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22 mpg | 22 mpg | 20 mpg |
| Horsepower | 261 hp | 261 hp | 261 hp |
| Torque | 281 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft | 281 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 5000 lb | 5000 lb | 5000 lb |
| Rear Legroom | 34.4 in | 34.4 in | 34.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Hill Descent Control | |||
| Hill Start Assist | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Power Mirrors | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Side Steps | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Subwoofer | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2012 Nissan Xterra compared with the 2011 model?
Nothing significant changed for 2012. The X, S, and PRO-4X trims carry over with the same V6, styling, safety equipment, and core technology.
Was the 2012 Nissan Xterra redesigned?
No, the 2012 Xterra was not redesigned or meaningfully refreshed. It is a late-cycle model in the second generation that began for 2005.
Which 2012 Nissan Xterra trim is the most capable off road?
The 2012 PRO-4X is the most trail-focused trim. It has four-wheel drive, Bilstein off-road shocks, skid plates, a locking rear differential, and roof-mounted off-road lights.
Do all 2012 Nissan Xterra trims use the same engine?
Yes, every 2012 Xterra trim uses a 261-hp 4.0-liter V6. Transmission and two-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive combinations differ by trim.
Do trim differences matter more than model-year changes on a 2012 Xterra?
Yes, trim choice matters more because 2012 brought no major lineup changes. The X is the basic model, the S adds everyday convenience and cargo features, and the PRO-4X adds specialized off-road hardware.