Jetta has that too - I've got a 1.8T version in my garage right now w/ a stick.

I like both. We haven't had any problems with either the Jetta (50k) or Xterra (30k). If you are hauling stuff or need offroad capability, the Xterra is the ticket. However, it's slow and handles like shit compared to the Jetta. Also gets worse mileage and has a comparatively cheapo interior. Long term reliability will probably favor the Xterra.

If you are really hauling a lot of stuff regularly you may want to think about an Xterra, or even a Jetta wagon if you don't need the SUV capabilities (or other type of wagon).

My preference? When all is said and done, I admit like my Xterra better than my wife's Jetta.