2001 Nissan Pathfinder: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Nissan's senior SUV adopts some features once reserved for its upscale Infiniti QX4 sibling, including a 240-hp V6 in place of a 170-hp V6. XE, SE, and LE models are offered. Manual transmission is available on the SE, but others are automatic only. All offer rear-wheel drive or 4WD. XE and SE 4WD must be disengaged on dry pavement. LE has QX4's All-Mode 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement. Both systems include low-range gearing. ABS is standard. SE and LE Leather option package includes front side airbags. SE and LE also offer QX4's navigation system with dashboard touchscreen, plus a rear-seat video entertainment system. Now standard are cruise control and power windows/locks/mirrors. Newly available are steering-wheel audio controls and memory power front seats.

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.