The 2008 Nissan Xterra adds a few new available features to its lineup. This off-road-themed midsize SUV is smaller and less costly than Nissan's Pathfinder. Xterra seats five versus Pathfinder's seven. X, S, Off-Road, and SE trim levels are offered. All have a 261-hp 4.0-liter V6 engine. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard on X, S, and Off-Road. A 5-speed automatic is optional on those models and standard on SE. Maximum towing capacity is 5000 lb. X, S, and SE offer rear-wheel drive or part-time 4-wheel drive that should not be left engaged on dry pavement. The 4WD system includes a low-range gear for off-roading. Off-Road models are 4WD only. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Off-Road models have all-terrain tires, skid plates, locking rear differential, and, with automatic transmission, hill ascent and descent control. A wireless cell phone link is newly available on the 2008 Nissan Xterra.