Assuming your daughter isn't into offroading, which makes the decision process easier, you should simply choose between a 4x2 and a 4x4 model. Not surprisingly, 4x4 vehicles are very rare in some parts of the country (like Florida). As for which trim package to go with, the more spartan the better if your daughter is not the sort to be genteel on the interior. As for reliability, some may argue that the 2005 model has more problems that the later models. But this is probably not significant, especially if the vehicle is not taken offroad.

Hope this helps.

_Lazza

PS - as with most younguns, your daughter is likely to be interested in the Xterra's stereo more than any other feature. I would not let this deter you getting an Xterra with the most basic stereo. Upgrading to aftermarket stereos/speakers is relatively easy, and you will be able to get nifty aftermarket units with nice gizmos for the iPod, cellphone, etc, for only a few hundred dollars. Well worth the investment (IMHO).