It still has a solid rear axle, with multi-link trailing arms and coil springs, so rear-wheel hop will rear its head. Steering feedback steers a tricky course between bump isolation and vagueness, with acceptable results.
It has a 106.3-inch wheelbase and an overall length of 182.7 inches — 5 inches longer than the Xterra. Standing about 68 inches tall, the Nissan Pathfinders measures close to 70 inches wide and has four side doors. Interior
All Nissan Pathfinders seat five, though foot room for backseat occupants might be tight beneath the front seats. Large, convenient controls operate the climate and audio systems. A 60/40-split rear seat folds to create 85 cubic feet of cargo space.
One engine, two transmissions and two drive systems are available for the Pathfinder. The Nissan Pathfinders SE has a four-speed-automatic or five-speed-manual transmission; XE and LE models come only with the automatic gearbox.
The Nissan Pathfinders can have rear-wheel drive or a part-time four-wheel-drive system, which is intended for use on slippery surfaces. The Pathfinder LE 4x4 has a push-button All-Mode 4WD system that permits up to 50 percent of available torque to reach the front wheels when needed.
The Nissan Pathfinders is a mighty smooth operator — a true pleasure to drive and ride in, delivering plenty of performance to boot. An easy-acting automatic transmission delivers prompt gear changes.
Gone is the XE model, leaving SE and LE versions. The 4WD SE Pathfinder is available with manual transmission; the other models use automatic. All offer rear-wheel drive or 4WD. The SE's 4WD must be disengaged on dry pavement. Also optional are navigation system and rear-seat video-entertainment systems.
Both offer competence, convenience, and attractive pricing and design. They lack serious off-road 4WD systems, however.
Our Recommended choices feature more-traditional SUVs: the Dodge Durango, which offers optional third-row seating; the top-selling Ford Explorer; the utilitarian Nissan Xterra; and the refined GMC Envoy.