Ovis Canis
Observer
I'm looking at the Xterra, 2005-2007 models, as a foundation for building an overlander. I was hoping you could share what kind of mpg you're getting loaded and unloaded and if you're running a tuner. Thanks for the help.
Really? I've spent a week on here scouring through Xterra builds, problems, trips, stories, trying to gather some type of realistic baseline on what to expect if I buy one of these only to come away with a pittance of what I was looking for and not one person out of a hundred has an X and could give some insight?
Ovis Canis,
I have had my Xterra for about 110000 miles at this point, so I can tell you about what to expect.
First, be aware that the 2008+ models do not take to tuning as well as the 05-07 models. I am assuming that is why you are asking for information about the 05-07 models. I don't know if the mileage is any different on the newer trucks, but the tuning ability is.
When I first got my Xterra at 36000, with 265/75R16 Nitto Terra Grapplers, I was averaging about 19mpg hwy and about 16mpg city.
I added a suspension lift and larger tires around 100000 miles, my gas mileage decreased to about 18mpg hwy and about 14 mpg city.
I added a full set of skid plates, sliders, and a rear bumper (about 6000 lbs total vehicle weight) and it decreased another mpg in each setting.
I replaced the sparkplugs and added a CXJ intake manifold spacer (Different from a throttle body spacer) and my gas mileage went back to 19mpg hwy and 16 mpg city.
I most recently added 33.5" Nitto Trail Grappler tires. My gas mileage now is about 17mpg hwy and about 13mpg city.
I know that there are quite a few members on this site that own Xterras, but the majority of the Xterra forum members that you will find will be on thenewx.org. That is where I find most of my information at. Just be aware that you have to have thick skin to be on that forum, as the moderation level has decreased since the site was bought out by Autoguide. I love the forum, but I have never had an issue with internet sensitivity. It's is crazy informative, and it probably has just about everything you are looking for as far as modding the truck goes. Gook luck in your search!
Ovis,
I got my 2012 X at the beginning of February. I have been keeping a spreadsheet of my gas consumption. All though I don't always remember to print a receipt, it is fairly complete. Granted, my X is completely stock except for a Thule T2 bike rack here's what I have so far.
Hope this helps
Ouch we haven't hit $4 gal in a while here in TX. Thanks all for the help.