The Xterra has visual distinction that says rugged. For 2002, bigger tires add to this. SE comes standard with 265/70R16 tires on alloy wheels, while the supercharged model gets 17-inch alloys with 265/65R17 BF Goodrich off-road tires.

Rugged is carried through with a thick tubular aluminum roof rack with black airfoil; matching step rails; stout fender flares; handsome alloy wheels; beefy grille and front bumper with big radiator vents and recessed halogen fog lights; vertical handles on the trailing edge of the rear doors; a two-tiered roof with a tall square back having a bulge in the tailgate for the first aid kit; and, if you crawl under the vehicle, you'll see skid plates under the engine and fuel tank.

The tall, flat rear bumper with gripped surface makes a perfect stand for reaching the roof rack, but it's difficult to get up on, because there is no grab handle. If you're tall enough, you can hang onto the rear corner of the rack from the side of the vehicle and swing yourself up, but only rock climbers will love it. Considering the vehicle's hype about function, this is a significant if small oversight. Nissan says the Pathfinder is similar, and nobody ever complained. Maybe not, but Pathfinder owners carry groceries more often than kayaks.

In the same vein, the optional removable plastic gear basket at the front of the rack is an excellent idea (think of sloppy ski or hiking boots), but there's no net to cover it-that's another accessory you have to buy.