The Nissan Pathfinder is a rugged, traditional body-on frame SUV with real off-road and towing credentials. The Pathfinder comes in at the middle of the pack in terms of size, slotting above the Xterra and below the Armada, and it features three rows of seating that can accommodate seven occupants.
Compared to the model that first launched this generation Pathfinder, the newest iteration of this SUV features a revised front fascia complete with a new hood, redesigned grille, updated headlights and new bumper. V6-powered models receive new badging as well as side molding. New-design 16, 17 and 18-inch wheels are also part of the Pathfinder redesign. Overall, the new Pathfinder grows 80mm.
The Pathfinder’s interior has also been given the once over, focusing heavily on improved quality and more content. The new Pathfinder features all-new door trims, revised switchgear and dials, chrome accents and new seat fabrics. What items remain have been upgraded with higher-quality materials.
The latest Pathfinder continues to be available in S, SV, Silver Edition, LE and LE V8 trim levels. What is new, however, is the availability of the power moonroof and DvD player on the Silver Edition, as well as navigation being standard on the Pathfinder LE V6 (previously standard on the LE V8 only).
Nissan also added Brilliant Silver to the list of available colors.
The SUV is offered with a choice of V6 or V8 engines. The 5.6-liter DOHC V8 engine (available only in top-spec LE V8 models) is rated at 310 horsepower and 388 lb-ft of torque, which helps it to achieve 7,000 lbs of maximum towing capacity (when properly equipped).
Pathfinder’s 4.0-liter V6 offers 266 horsepower and 288 lb-ft of torque. All Pathfinders continue to be built on a high-strength, fully boxed, all-steel frame based on the full-size Nissan Armada SUV.
Pathfinder is offered with several advanced 4x4 systems. The Pathfinder LE V8 4x4 features a full-time All-Mode four-wheel drive system that can instantly distribute torque to all four wheels whenever road conditions warrant (up to 50 percent can go to the front wheels on demand), resulting in optimal traction with improved fuel economy and enhanced cornering capability.
V6-equipped 4x4 models are available with a part-time 4WD system (S, SV) or an All-Mode 4WD system that includes 2WD/AUTO/4H/4LO modes and electronically controlled transfer case (LE V6).
Standard on all Pathfinder models is a responsive engine-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system and four-wheel disc brakes with four-wheel, four-channel, four-sensor Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with G-sensor and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD).
Pathfinder’s list of standard safety features and equipment includes Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), featuring dual-stage front supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors and a front occupant classification sensor; supplemental front seat-mounted side-impact air bags; and roof-mounted supplemental curtain air bags for improved side impact and rollover head protection for outboard occupants in all three rows.
Other features include three-point seat belts for all rear seat occupants, including the 2nd row center position, adjustable 2nd and 3rd row head restraints, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Trim Levels: the Nitty Gritty
The Pathfinder is available in five different trim levels: S, SV, Silver Edition, LE V6 and LE V8.
The most basic Pathfinder, the S, comes equipped with the usual amenities like power windows and locks, A/C and keyless entry in addition to features like a trip computer, cruise control, six speaker AM/FM/CD stereo, 16-inch alloy wheels and an eight-way adjustable driver’s seat.
The SV adds a center console mounted “information center” with a seven-inch color display screen, a RearView back-up camera, dual zone automatic climate control with rear A/C, power adjustable pedals, an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat, a six-disc CD changer and auxiliary audio input jack, steering-wheel mounted audio controls and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Stepping up to the Silver Edition nets a power moonroof, a rear DVD entertainment system, leather seating, a four-way power adjustable passenger seat and a ten-speaker Bose audio system.
Splurge for an LE V6, and the rewards include a navigation system, a heated steering wheel, wood-tone trim and 18-inch alloy wheels. The only addition for the LE V8 is the larger, more powerful engine.
Key competitors
The relatively large Nissan Pathfinder finds its main competition from the similarly-sized Jeep Grand Cherokee, as well as the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander.