Oliver Klothshauf

A UTE’s tray or tub is more than just a load space—it’s a mobile command center. It hauls your tools, your gear, your dogs, your livelihood. It’s where work meets road, and where utility meets grit. But that open-air setup? It’s vulnerable. Sun, rain, wind, and sticky fingers don’t care how neatly you’ve packed your gear. If it’s exposed, it’s at risk.

In the world of cab-chassis builds, the tray you choose isn’t just a bolt-on—it’s a commitment. Whether you’re hauling gear through job sites, navigating coastal terrain, or just building a rig that reflects your work ethic, the decision between steel and aluminum trays comes down to more than just weight and price tags.

After years of watching Toyota’s 4Runner and Ford’s Bronco rake in profits and dominate the off-road SUV space, Nissan is finally stepping back into the ring. The Xterra—once a rugged icon of early-2000s adventure—is officially set to return in 2028, and this time, it’s bringing hybrid muscle, body-on-frame grit, and a clear mission: reclaim its rightful place among trail-ready legends—2028 Nissan Xterra Return