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2003 Nissan Pathfinder Road Test

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Khatir Soltani

That's my general consensus for the entire interior actually. It all looks well put together with better than average materials and should wear well. Its switchgear clicks nicely and falls within easy reach due to its intuitive placement. It's an easy vehicle to get comfortable in, and immediately likeable.

And that's probably why the Pathfinder has sold so well over the years. After all, I usually get to keep press cars for a week at a time. If I'm still trying to locate the power window switches after six days how will a prospective customer feel after a half hour test drive? The answer is obvious.

So if you're looking for the latest, greatest SUV, look elsewhere. But if you want a tried and tested traditional sport utility, the Pathfinder is one of the best available. It will coddle you and your four occupants in comfort while bringing the kids home from school or traversing a rocky ridge far from civilization. And there are few SUVs that can truly live up to such a claim.

Specifications:

  • Price Range (MSRP): $34,200 - $45,725 (dealer installed accessories not included)
  • Body Type: 5-door SUV, ladder frame (TB)
  • Layout: Front engine, 4WD
  • Base Engine: 250 hp, 240 lb-ft, 3.5-L, 24-valve, DOHC V6
  • Opt Engine (auto): 240 hp, 265 lb-ft, 3.5-L, 24-valve, DOHC V6
  • Transmission: 5-spd man (opt 4-spd auto)
  • Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum, ABS
  • Curb Weight (min/max): 1,864 - 1,964 kg (4,109 - 4,325 lbs)
  • Seating Capacity:5
  • Cargo Cap (seat up/down):1,076 / 2,407 L (38.0 / 85.0 cu ft)
  • Ground Clearance:211 mm (8.3 in)
  • Towing Capacity: 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs) - 2,269 kg (5,000 lb)
  • Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 14.4 / 11.9 L/100 km
  • Warranty (mo/km):36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
  • Direct Competitors:Acura MDX, Buick Rendezvous, Chevy Blazer/Trailblazer, Ford Explorer/Explorer Sport, GMC Jimmy/Envoy, Isuzu Rodeo/Ascender, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Land Rover Discovery, Mitsubishi Montero/Montero Sport, Oldsmobile Bravada, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota 4Runner
  • Web Site:www.nissan.ca
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 8 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada