Driver FixRecommendedSound, Wi-Fi or graphics acting up? Check drivers firstFind missing or outdated drivers fast.Check DriversOctober DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsPC HealthRecommendedCrashes, freezes, slowdowns? Check your PC nowSpot repairable issues before they interrupt work.Check PC×
Skip to content
CarCodyAdvertise
Service recordThe Garage

Project X Is a Custom Xterra Revival—Not Nissan’s New SUV

Project X is a custom V8-swapped Xterra. Nissan’s separate production Xterra is targeted for late 2028, with a new body-on-frame platform and V6 or V6 hybrid power.
Entry126 Date Time2 min MechanicCarCody Team
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Project X is enthusiast Nick Scherr’s custom Xterra build, not Nissan’s announced production SUV. The one-off combines a second-generation Xterra shell with a V8 swap and selected newer Frontier parts. Nissan’s separate Xterra return is targeted for late 2028, with a V6 or V6 hybrid planned; its final design and specifications have not been announced.

What Project X is—and what it isn’t

Project X is Scherr’s personal interpretation of a modern Xterra. Car and Driver reports that it starts with a second-generation Xterra shell, retains a six-speed manual, replaces the original V6 with a V8, and uses selected parts from the 2025 Frontier, including headlights and a dashboard. Those are details of Scherr’s custom build, not specifications for Nissan’s future SUV. Car and Driver’s report quotes Scherr describing the project as “my love letter to enthusiasts who crave capability, character, and connection in their builds.” He also said, “I got tired of waiting for a new Xterra.”

The distinction matters: Project X is a custom vehicle, while Nissan’s returning Xterra is a planned production model. The custom build does not establish how Nissan’s vehicle will look, what components it will use, or how it will perform.

When is Nissan’s Xterra coming back?

Nissan confirmed the Xterra’s return on April 14, 2026, and is targeting a late-2028 launch. That is a target, not a guarantee of a specific on-sale date. Nissan says more information will come closer to launch. Nissan’s announcement places the Xterra within a body-on-frame vehicle family under exploration, but potential expansion of that family to pickups and multi-row SUVs is not confirmation that every possible model will reach production.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
maXpeedingrods 3" Front & 2" Rear lift Kit for Nissan Frontier Xterra 05-23
  • Wide Fitment: for Nissan Frontier 2WD 4WD 2005-2023; for Nissan Xterra 2WD 4WD 2005-2015; for Suzuki Equator 2WD 4WD 2009-2012
  • Note: Will not fit for Pro4X Model
  • 3" Front & 2" Rear: Raise your ride height and let your truck looks cooler, more aggressive! This suspension lift kit adds ground clearance to install larger custom rims and tires, while maintaining a comfortable factory ride quality
  • Easy Bolt-On: Protective coated surface can prevent oxidation and rust, allowing you to drive freely on muddy tails. Strut extension spacers can be directly mounted on top of the struts, no disassembly and no spring compressor needed
  • 24/7 Customer Service: Lift leveling kit includes 2 x front strut spacers, 2 x rear lift shackles, straight nozzle M6*1, bushing and cushion hardware. No instructions included, contact us anytime

What Nissan has confirmed about the production Xterra

Nissan’s current U.S. model information describes the returning Xterra as U.S.-produced, built on a new body-on-frame platform, and planned with a V6 or V6 hybrid powertrain. These are the broad details Nissan has disclosed, not a complete specification sheet. Nissan’s Xterra page says further details will be shared closer to launch.

Nissan produced the previous Xterra from 2000 through 2015. The company describes that model as a five-seat, adventure-oriented SUV combining cargo utility with off-road capability. Nissan’s Xterra accessories page covers the existing vehicle and its parts; it does not establish fitment for the future model.

Rank #2
WLTATBUA LED Interior Light Kit Package Replacement for Nissan Xterra 2005-2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015, Super Bright 6000K White License Plate Bulbs + Install Tool
  • Complete LED Interior Light Replacement Package for 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Nissan Xterra (all configurations).
  • PACKAGE INCLUDED -- Map Lights, Dome Lights, Trunk Lights, License Plate Lights
  • INCREASE VISIBILY -- 6000K White; Advanced 3030 LED is 300% brighter than your original halogen bulbs. The LEDs completely light up the inside of the vehicle, allowing you to see clearly anywhere in the vehicle at night!
  • LABELED PACKAGE -- There are a bunch of different bulbs in the kit. Each light package is labeled for where the lights go in the vehicle.
  • PLUG AND PLAY -- No error code, no modifications required. The kit comes with a great pry tool. If you have any issue, please feel free to contact us! We will respond to you within 24 hours and provide you with a satisfactory solution.

Project X and Nissan’s planned Xterra at a glance

Detail Project X Planned Nissan Xterra
Status Nick Scherr’s custom build, reported by Car and Driver Announced production model targeted for late 2028
Powertrain Reported V8 swap; six-speed manual retained Nissan says V6 or V6 hybrid
Platform or components Second-generation Xterra shell and selected 2025 Frontier parts New body-on-frame platform
Availability Custom vehicle; no retail availability details established in the cited report Late-2028 target; not a guaranteed on-sale date

Price, fuel economy, dimensions, towing figures, trims, detailed equipment, and definitive production styling have not been published on the reviewed Nissan pages. Project X’s reported modifications cannot fill those gaps or predict Nissan’s eventual specifications.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Which parts fit an existing Xterra?

Nissan’s accessories information concerns existing Xterras, not the model planned for 2028. The page lists roof rail crossbars, part number 999R1-KX100, for existing X and S trims, and a NISMO off-road skid plate, part number 50810XTFSP. Check the relevant model year and trim with Nissan before ordering. No compatibility with the future Xterra has been established.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
DAYSYORE Timing Chain Kit - with Oil Pump & Water Pump Fits for Nissan 2005-2010 Frontier Pathfinder Xterra 4.0L V6 DOHC 24 Valve Engine Code "VQ40DE"
  • 🚗【Fitment】: Fits for 2005-2010 PATHFINDER 4.0L 3954CC V6 DOHC 24 VALVE, Engine Code: "VQ40DE", for 2005-2010 FRONTIER 4.0L 3954CC V6 DOHC 24 Valve Engine code: "VQ40DE" for 2005-2010 XTERRA 4.0L 3954CC V6 DOHC 24 Valve Eng Code: "VQ40DE"
  • 🚗【High-Quality】; Perfect in line with OE or exceeding OE standard quality. Made of high-quality metal/plastic, the metal chain is more durable and practical than traditional belts, Easy to install, fast response, close to the previous effect.
  • 🚗【OE Part Number】:13091-ZK00A, 13070-ZK01A, 13070-ZK01B, 13028-ZK01C, 13085-EA200, 13070-EA200, 13085-EA210 15010-EA20A, 13028-ZS00A, 13024-7Y000, 13025-EA22A, 13021-7Y000, 21010-7Y026.
  • 🚗【NOTE】:Please check your car model in the Amazon Accessories system in the upper left corner before you shoot your order, calculate the year and model number and check the compatibility label including comments, or send us a message to make sure it matches exactly. After confirming the accuracy, please order with confidence.
  • 🚗【Satisfaction Service】: 1-Year Warranty. 7 days/24 hours online customer service. We take your experience very seriously, so if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us and our enthusiastic and friendly customer service staff will solve your queries.
Rank #4
A-Premium Front and Rear Drilled Slotted Brake Rotors and Ceramic Pads Kit
  • [Perfect Fitment]: Compatible with Nissan Frontier 2005-2019 V6 4.0L, Xterra 2005-2015; Compatible with Suzuki Equator 2009-2012 V6 4.0L(RMZ-4, Sport Model)---Front and Rear, Driver and Passenger Side
  • [Reference Number]: The A-Premium Brake Kits' reference number: S-31412, JBR1124XPR, P-1094, Z361094, S-31410, 63167094L, 63167094R, 63367094L, 63367094R, P-1100, SBC1100, 1310110001, 171100, FVC1100, ZD1100, MGD1100CH, CFC1100, 44060EA085
  • [Specification]: Mounting Bolt Hole Quantity: 6; Outside Diameter (mm): 295.8(Front), 285.5(Rear); Discard Thickness (mm): 26(Front), 16(Rear); G3000 metallurgy and metallic coating of brake discs can effectively prevent rust and corrosion, extending the lifespan. Brake pads are manufactured in a clean room using MTF602 carbon ceramic formula, which excels in low dust and noise reduction, and meets Leaf Mark certification with a copper content of less than 5%
  • [Directly Fit]: OE Replacement Drilled and Slotted Disc Brake Rotors and Pads Kit, including Mounting Hardware and Brake Lubricant (High-temperature Grease). Please enter your vehicle information in the top left corner of listing and check our "Special Note" before ordering; Compatible with A-Premium Nissan Brake Kit
  • [Buy with Confidence]: A-Premium offers a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee on our meticulously crafted A-Premium Front and Rear Brake Kit. We offer a wide variety of automotive accessory categories, ensuring that you can hit the road with peace of mind
Rank #3
2 Din Car Stereo Radio Install Dash Kit -Made for Nissan: 2005-2008 Frontier, 2005-2007 Pathfinder (no Factory Nav), 2008-2012 Pathfinder S Only, 2005-2008 Xterra, 2009-2014 Xterra X Only
  • Radio kit for installing an aftermarket radio. Kit for installing a double din size radio. Dash kit has a black finish. Some off brand off size radios might not fit properly for double din installation.
  • Compatible vehicles: Made for Nissan: 2005-2008 Frontier, 2009-2011 Frontier (S, SE w/ 4 cyl., and XE models only), 2012 Frontier (S model only), 2013-2015 Frontier (S with King Cab model only), 2005-2007 Pathfinder (no factory Nav), 2008-2012 Pathfinder (S model only), 2005-2008 Xterra, 2009-2014 Xterra (X model only)

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

More from the Garage

  1. Entry001Date09 OCT 26Time3 minWhich Brake Pad Should You Buy From RockAuto or Elsewhere?Section: Blog
  2. Entry002Date09 OCT 26Time5 minThe Pros and Cons of Touchless Car Wash SystemsSection: Blog
  3. Entry003Date09 OCT 26Time3 minCan a Trickle Charger or Battery Tender Properly Charge a Car Battery?Section: Blog

Thanks for visiting Carcody

Carcody.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.co

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.