New guy needs help narrowed to a 2012 Xterra or Jeep WR Unlim Sahara

[shikano53]

Hi everyone,
I am looking at a new 2012 Xterra SV. I want it mostly I use my vehicle for some off road activity but also for commuting between Red Deer and Calgary here in Central Alberta. My question to you owners is how does it lock into 4 hi on the highway and can anyone comment on driving it during winter conditions on paved roads. My worry is that it won't be good for commuting because you can't drive it on pavement for long periods of time IE, 150 kilometers.

Thanks in advance for any comments

Kind regards
Chris in RD, AB

[thatguybme]

Originally Posted by shikano53

Hi everyone,
I am looking at a new 2012 Xterra SV. I want it mostly I use my vehicle for some off road activity but also for commuting between Red Deer and Calgary here in Central Alberta. My question to you owners is how does it lock into 4 hi on the highway and can anyone comment on driving it during winter conditions on paved roads. My worry is that it won't be good for commuting because you can't drive it on pavement for long periods of time IE, 150 kilometers.

Thanks in advance for any comments

Kind regards
Chris in RD, AB

you would NOT want to drive either on dry, paved roads for any length of time - the front wheels need to 'slip' otherwise the drive train will become the weak link and something will break. The Xterra is rated for like 55 MPH in 4h on 'snow covered roads' - i bet the jeep is rated similarly.

In/out of 4H is by just turning the knob on the dash.. Lock up in 4h is quick, coming back out can take a little bit (the indicator light will blink until it comes back out of 4h)..

[Sarie]

I have a 2012 SV and I drive from South Calgary all the way up to the airport everyday (about 35km on Deerfoot) Right after a snow fall the roads have been really slick but I haven't had any trouble in 2wd

I do NOT use the 4h on the highway unless the roads are covered in snow but have not had any problems in 2wd. Switching into 4h is easy and you can do it while driving (I assume you probably knew that though)

One thing I'm having to get used to is handling corners with the X, I came from a Altima Coupe which hugged the roads, the Xterra obviously isnt meant for that so something to be wary of.

[ShiftingSkys]

Most SUV's do not allow you to use it above 55MPH as that is not what it was designed for. You will be surprised at what the X can do especially with the right tires.

[Julionix]

Welcome from Vancouver, BC!

I'd vote X (my decision may be bias :-)
I agree with the above statements about driving on 4H. The most important thing is to drive safe and get good winter tires.
If you plan on off-roading you may want to consider getting the Pro4X model instead.
Good luck and keep us posted.

[xterranewf]

Originally Posted by ShiftingSkys

Most SUV's do not allow you to use it above 55MPH as that is not what it was designed for. You will be surprised at what the X can do especially with the right tires.

Hey ShiftingSkys
Im having a bit of a dilema about getting a good set of tires for this winter. This is my first winter driving an Xterra. Right now im running 265 70R 15. Personally I think these tires are too wide especially in slushy conditions. What is the narrowest tire that I can us without changing rims
Xterranewf