Nissan
Xterra
Toyota
FJ Cruiser
Nissan Xterra vs Toyota FJ Cruiser: 2010 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Toyota FJ Cruiser comes out ahead of the Nissan Xterra on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Xterra
Overall
Sentiment is strongly bifurcated by generation and specific model years. The first-generation (2000-2004) and second-generation (2005-2015) Xterra are widely regarded as rugged, durable, and capable body-on-frame SUVs, often described as "tanks" and "well-built machines" that offer excellent value, particularly when compared to more expensive competitors like the Toyota 4Runner. Long-term owner reports frequently cite reliability, ease of DIY maintenance, and low-cost parts.
Best version to buy
Second-generation (2005-2015) models from 2011 onwards, as these are reported to have factory-addressed the major SMOD radiator and timing chain guide issues. The manual transmission variant is highly recommended to completely avoid SMOD and for perceived greater durability.
Known issues
- ⚠"Strawberry Milkshake of Death" (SMOD) Radiator Failure (2005-2010 Automatics): Radiator internal failure mixes coolant and transmission fluid, leading to automatic transmission destruction. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Timing Chain Guide/Tensioner Failure (2005-2010): Plastic guides wear out, causing chain slack, potential timing jump, and catastrophic engine interference failure. Typically occurs around 60k-80k miles (97k-129k km). Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Automatic Transmission Issues (First & Second Gen): Rough shifts between 1st and 2nd gear, transmission failure, and general reliability concerns. Often linked to SMOD or age. Frequency: recurrent.
FJ Cruiser
Overall
Extremely positive sentiment regarding long-term reliability, durability, and off-road capability. The vehicle is widely described as a "dream car" with a cult-like following, praised for its overbuilt nature, robust 4.0L V6 engine (1GR-FE), and exceptional resale value. Owner discussions consistently highlight its ability to reach very high mileage (200,000-300,000 miles) with proper maintenance.
Best version to buy
Trail Teams Special Edition: Specifically mentioned as a rapidly appreciating collectible with factory off-road enhancements like 16-inch TRD wheels for better sidewall, often commanding 2-3x original MSRP. For general use, models equipped with the automatic transmission are recommended over the manual due to noted issues with the 5-speed manual. 4x4 with a rear locker is the desired configuration for serious off-road use.
Known issues
- ⚠Severe blind spots / poor visibility: due to thick C-pillars and small rear window, described as "a blind spot big enough to cover a southern small town scandal." Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Very poor fuel economy: real-world reports of 14-19 MPG (16.8-12.4 L/100km), with some calculations as low as 4 km/L (approx. 9.4 MPG) in heavy traffic. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Extremely high used market prices / "Toyota tax": prices described as "insane," with low-mileage examples commanding near-original MSRP and 200,000-mile examples still demanding high prices. Frequency: very frequent.
The verdict
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Nissan Xterra, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Nissan Xterra is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Nissan Xterra or the Toyota FJ Cruiser?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Nissan Xterra and the Toyota FJ Cruiser. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Nissan Xterra or the Toyota FJ Cruiser?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Nissan Xterra is classed as a SUV, the Toyota FJ Cruiser as a Off-road vehicle, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Nissan Xterra or the Toyota FJ Cruiser?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Nissan Xterra or the Toyota FJ Cruiser?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Nissan Xterra than the Toyota FJ Cruiser. See the known issues comparison above.