2001-2004 Nissan Pathfinder: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Nissan's updated premium sport-utility wagon began the 2001 model year in spring 2000, offered in base XE, sporty SE, and top-line LE versions, with additional standard features. This truck-based four-door wagon shared its design and V6 engine with the QX4 from Nissan's upscale Infiniti division. A new twincam 3.5-liter V6 replaced the single-cam 3.3-liter. Horsepower was 240 with automatic transmission, and 250 with manual shift. Prior Pathfinders had used a 170-horsepower engine. Torque ratings were now 265 and 240 pounds-feet, respectively, versus the previous 200. Towing capacity was unchanged at 5000 pounds. Only the SE was available with a manual gearbox. The Pathfinder adopted several options that had previously been reserved for its upscale Infiniti sister, the QX4. All models came with rear-wheel drive or part-time four-wheel drive. The latter had low-range gearing, intended for slick surfaces only. The LE's 4WD system was now the QX4's on-demand All-Mode setup, which was usable on dry pavement. It had 2WD, automatic 4WD, and locked-in 4WD High and Low settings. Antilock brakes were standard across the board. Front side airbags were available in the Leather option package for SE and LE models. The 2001 Pathfinders also got a restyled dashboard and console, standard cruise control, and power windows/locks/mirrors for all models. SE and LE versions gained standard steering-wheel audio controls and memory power seats. Newly optional on SEs and LEs was the QX4's satellite-linked navigation system, with dashboard touch-screen and audible route instructions. The LE and SE could also get a newly optional rear-seat entertainment system with video player, flip-down LCD screen, separate audio controls and game port. Infiniti's QX4 also got the bigger V6 and a revised dashboard this year, but had side airbags and the All-Mode 4WD system as standard. Pathfinder competitors included the Acura MDX, Ford Explorer, Lexus RX 300, and Toyota 4Runner and Highlander.