2001 Infiniti QX4: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Updated for a spring 2000 debut as an early '01, the upscale version of the Pathfinder from Nissan's luxury division sports a larger V6 with 70 more hp than its former V6, plus subtle cosmetic changes, a revised dashboard and gauges, standard high-intensity headlamps and front side airbags, and a new rear-wheel-drive model. Automatic transmission and ABS are standard. New options include heated front and rear seats and a satellite/cell-phone navigation and assistance system. The 4WD QX4 has Nissan's All-Mode 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. QX4 performance and accommodations are similar to those of the Nissan Pathfinder.

COMPETITION

This is by far the hottest market segment right now. Crowded with more than 20 vehicles, midsize SUVs vary in size and type but nearly all seat five adults and offer V6 or V8 engines. Our Best Buy is the car-based Lexus RX 300. Though it lacks a low range in 4WD mode, it's the most carlike to drive and offers all of the versatility of a truck-based model.

Our Recommended choices are all traditional SUVs: the Dodge Durango, which offers optional third-row seating; the best-selling Ford Explorer clone Mercury Mountaineer; the Teutonic Mercedes-Benz M-Class; the utilitarian Nissan Xterra; and the refined but expensive Toyota 4Runner.