Project X is a one-off Nissan Xterra restomod built by enthusiast Nick Scherr for the 2025 SEMA Show—not a new factory Xterra. Its finished configuration pairs the first-generation Xterra’s roofline with newer Frontier body and cabin parts, Titan-derived mechanical components, a reported 5.6-liter Nissan VK56 V8 and a six-speed manual. The result looks more current than its original shell, but the transformation runs far deeper than a styling update.
What is the Nissan Xterra SEMA build?
Project X is Scherr’s heavily reworked Xterra, assembled over about a year and a half with parts and fabrication drawn from several Nissan generations. Offroad Xtreme describes the project as an effort to modernize the Xterra while retaining its recognizable shape. Scherr told the magazine: “I wanted to create the ultimate Nissan Xterra,” and make it modern because “it’s been gone for a decade.” Offroad Xtreme’s build feature details the component mix.
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The finished truck keeps the first-generation Xterra greenhouse—the cabin’s window layout and roofline—while borrowing much of its contemporary appearance from a newer Frontier. Titan components feature in the drivetrain and chassis. This is a custom combination, not evidence that the parts are generally interchangeable or a factory-designed package.
What engine is in Xterra Project X?
The completed-build accounts describe a modified 5.6-liter Nissan VK56 V8, replacing the Xterra’s original 4.0-liter V6. It is paired with an FS6R31A six-speed manual transmission, connected with a C3 Performance Adapters kit. The drivetrain also includes a Magna TX91A two-speed transfer case. Offroad Xtreme and Carscoops’ October 29, 2025 account describe the finished setup.
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There is an important difference between early project coverage and the finished specification. In a July 2025 progress story, The Autopian quoted Scherr discussing a 6.2-liter LS swap from an earlier phase. The later October coverage identifies the completed SEMA build’s engine as the Nissan 5.6-liter VK56. These reports describe different stages; they do not indicate that both engines were installed together. The Autopian’s July account covers the earlier phase.
Named supporting parts include Concept Z Performance motor mounts, JBA shorty headers, a Z1 Off-Road cold-air intake, a Z1 Frontier-application carbon-fiber snorkel, a CSF radiator and a modified Z1 Xterra exhaust. The transmission setup is reported with a Z1 flywheel and clutch kit and a LOJ Conversions short-throw shifter. The sources do not provide measured horsepower, acceleration or fuel-economy figures.
How does Project X combine Xterra and Frontier styling?
The truck retains the first-generation Xterra’s greenhouse and roofline but uses a broad selection of Frontier exterior and interior components. Carscoops reports Frontier headlights, grille, bumper, fenders, front doors and taillights. Offroad Xtreme adds that the front clip uses a 2025 Frontier front end and core support; the rear doors were modified, and the Frontier taillights were blended into a reshaped Xterra hatch and door.
Inside, the dashboard, center console, seats, steering wheel and door cards are described as Frontier-sourced. The update gives the cabin a newer Nissan look while preserving the Xterra body’s distinctive profile. Other reported exterior details include off-road bumpers, a Seibon hood with a carbon-fiber vent, a Z1 roof rack, a snorkel and additional LED lighting. These are reported features of this particular build, not a catalog of plug-and-play upgrades.
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What chassis, suspension and tires does the build use?
Project X uses Titan-sourced axles and suspension components, with an AAM 8.25-inch front differential, an AAM 9.5-inch rear axle and 3.92:1 gearing, according to Offroad Xtreme. The reported suspension list includes Z1 forged upper control arms, Locked Offroad remote-reservoir coilovers, Z1 medium-duty leaf springs and extended-length Locked Offroad piggyback remote-reservoir rear shocks. The feature says the setup widens the stance and adds four inches of lift over stock.
Carscoops’ finished-build account also names CJD shackles and rear shocks, Paragon six-piston front calipers, and Z1 slotted rear rotors, pads and brake lines. It reports 33-inch Hankook Dynapro AT2 Extreme tires mounted on bronze 17-inch NISMO beadlock wheels. The coverage does not state the tires’ complete size, so the 33-inch description alone is not enough to establish fitment for another Xterra.
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Project X is not a Nissan production model or a factory preview. It was built by Nick Scherr as a one-off for SEMA; Carscoops’ October 29, 2025 report says it was not intended for production. Scherr described the build as a way to demonstrate enthusiasm for the nameplate: “Because it was time to bring the Xterra back and show Nissan there is a market for it,” he told Offroad Xtreme.
That intent should not be confused with a company announcement. Carscoops’ October 25 preview discussed two Xterra concepts and projected configurations, including one with a 3.8-liter V6, and reported that Nissan and NISMO were aware of the projects but not directly involved in their design or development. Those preview details are separate from Project X’s completed VK56-powered configuration; neither establishes that Nissan has announced a production revival.
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What the build does—and does not—show
Project X demonstrates one builder’s approach to updating an older Xterra: keep the familiar silhouette, borrow modern Frontier surfaces and cabin parts, then undertake substantial custom work to fit a V8 and Titan-derived hardware. Its specifications are reported build details, not independent performance test results. The available coverage does not establish horsepower, trail-test outcomes, reliability, current part availability or broad compatibility with other Xterras.
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