I, having briefly driven the previous generation Pathfinder, can say that the 2007 Pathfinder feels more at home on pavement than the old one did. The ride is still very truck-like with the occasional jostling of the passengers and hoppy rear axle. On an even surface, gravel, snow or tarmac, the Pathfinder is more civilised. On the other hand, a damaged road could have the occupants feeling a little queasy. As the Pathfinder is top-heavy, carving through corners needs to be done with restraint. As for steering and braking performance, both are on par with the majority of the contestants in the category.
Some good, some bad
The seats are reasonably comfortable up front for the average jaunt from here to there. Make sure you travel in a straight line as much as possible because the lack of lateral support will quickly prove to be irritating. The second row is a much worse place to be for any length of time and forget about the third row. Back in the middle, the split folding bench is short on cushion size, support and comfort. The trunk, with the last row in place is useless, however when it is folded into place, the cargo area is very large.
The Pathfinder's dashboard presentation is pleasant and it actually gets better with the revised 2008 model. All of the controls are accessible from the driver's position. The audio buttons mounted on the steering wheel work well and have a nice tactile feel. I also like the cabin plastics and the way they are assembled; Nissan has made some visible improvements in this department.
Although the 2005-present Pathfinder, according to my friend and I, looks more gentleman-like, it is still it a glorified truck. Those looking for a smoother car-like ride will be better served by the Honda Pilot or Mitsubishi Endeavor.
The price range of the Pathfinder is from $37,798 to over $52,500 for an LE with options. My tester was an SE with the Premium Package for a total of $43,798.
4.0L power
Handsome looks
Noisy engine
Fabulous thirst for fuel
Competitors:
Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, Mitsubishi Endeavor, Chevrolet Trailblazer / GMC Envoy / Buick Rainier, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento
photo:Philippe Champoux
Some good, some bad
The seats are reasonably comfortable up front for the average jaunt from here to there. Make sure you travel in a straight line as much as possible because the lack of lateral support will quickly prove to be irritating. The second row is a much worse place to be for any length of time and forget about the third row. Back in the middle, the split folding bench is short on cushion size, support and comfort. The trunk, with the last row in place is useless, however when it is folded into place, the cargo area is very large.
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| Noise insulation does not impress but fit and finish are good. |
The Pathfinder's dashboard presentation is pleasant and it actually gets better with the revised 2008 model. All of the controls are accessible from the driver's position. The audio buttons mounted on the steering wheel work well and have a nice tactile feel. I also like the cabin plastics and the way they are assembled; Nissan has made some visible improvements in this department.
Although the 2005-present Pathfinder, according to my friend and I, looks more gentleman-like, it is still it a glorified truck. Those looking for a smoother car-like ride will be better served by the Honda Pilot or Mitsubishi Endeavor.
The price range of the Pathfinder is from $37,798 to over $52,500 for an LE with options. My tester was an SE with the Premium Package for a total of $43,798.
 |
4.0L power
Handsome looks
 |
Noisy engine
 |
Fabulous thirst for fuel
Competitors:
Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, Mitsubishi Endeavor, Chevrolet Trailblazer / GMC Envoy / Buick Rainier, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento
photo:Philippe Champoux
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