The Xterra’s reappearance has roots in passion, not a corporate decision. Spearheaded by Nick Raymond Scherr, also known as ‘Nismo Nick’, the build is an enthusiast-driven project that reimagines the Xterra as if it never left. Although the SUV isn't slated for a factory comeback until at least 2027—and that version may be electric—these two SEMA builds give fans a taste of what a 2026 gas-powered Xterra might look like. With backing from Nissan North America and Nismo, this isn’t just a side project; it's a serious tribute to one of Nissan’s most rugged icons.

The new Xterra concepts are more than nostalgic redesigns—they’re intricate mashups of Nissan’s off-road lineage. Built using parts from the second-gen Xterra, third-gen Pathfinder, and the latest Frontier, the result is a boxy SUV that looks both familiar and fresh. Think Frontier headlights, Pathfinder-like proportions, and the spirit of the old Xterra, all wrapped into one. The builds also feature essential SEMA gear: roof racks, rock sliders, tire carriers, and overhauled interiors with modern tech. One variant keeps a traditional two-row format, while the other stretches into a more family-friendly three-row SUV.

These aren’t just showpieces. Riding on a ladder-frame chassis with 4WD and off-road equipment, the concepts are built to handle the wild. One model is powered by Nissan’s 3.8-liter V6, while the other cranks things up with a V8 for added punch. Both incorporate modern off-road features and Nismo components, ensuring performance matches the aggressive styling. Documented by Scherr on Instagram, the project’s evolution keeps fans engaged ahead of its full reveal at SEMA 2025.