2002 Nissan Pathfinder: Road Test
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2002 Nissan Pathfinder ▼
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- MSRP: $26,649 -$31,499
- Invoice: $24,229 -$28,637
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Our road test for the 2002 Nissan Pathfinder includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Nissan Pathfinder from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Nissan Pathfinder, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Nissan Pathfinder help you decide if a 2002 Nissan Pathfinder is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| SE 4WD, auto. | LE 4WD w/Leather Pkg., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.7 |
Test Pathfinders and QX4s did 0-60 mph in 9.0 sec, good for midsize 6-cyl SUVs. But tapping full power requires a determined throttle foot, and automatic transmission can be slow to downshift for passing.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SE 4WD, auto. | LE 4WD w/Leather Pkg., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.8 |
Test QX4 and Pathfinder averaged 14.2-16.5 mpg, depending on conditions. That's about par for this class, but premium-grade gas is required.
RIDE QUALITY
| SE 4WD, auto. | LE 4WD w/Leather Pkg., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 |
Both the Nissan and Infiniti ride firmly, though QX4 is acceptably comfortable over bumps and ridges that feel jarring in Pathfinder.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SE 4WD, auto. | LE 4WD w/Leather Pkg., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.5 |
Taut suspension aids control, keeps body lean in turns moderate. Steering feels properly weighted in turns but suffers vague on-center feel at highway speeds. Turning radius larger than most rivals. QX4's all-surface 4WD welcome on Pathfinder LE. SE's old-fashioned 4WD is far less-convenient.
QUIETNESS
| SE 4WD, auto. | LE 4WD w/Leather Pkg., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 |
Wind and road noise well-muffled. V6 emits throaty roar in rapid acceleration, but cruises quietly.
CONTROLS
| SE 4WD, auto. | LE 4WD w/Leather Pkg., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 |
Pathfinder and QX4 share a functionally sound dashboard. The nicely integrated navigation system works well once you master its programming. Cabin decor is classy on QX4 and leather-equipped Pathfinders; quite ordinary otherwise.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SE 4WD, auto. | LE 4WD w/Leather Pkg., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6.2 |
Ample room and comfort for adults. Driving position is good and adjustable enough, but thick roof pillars impede visibility.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SE 4WD, auto. | LE 4WD w/Leather Pkg., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 5.1 |
Leg space barely adequate for adults if front seats are more than halfway back. Seat is low to the floor and deficient in back support. Step-in height is relatively high. Narrow door openings further complicate entry/exit.
CARGO ROOM
| SE 4WD, auto. | LE 4WD w/Leather Pkg., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7.7 |
Cargo volume is good and flip-up back glass is useful, but folding rear seat is more complicated than it should be.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SE 4WD, auto. | LE 4WD w/Leather Pkg., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 4.5 |
An antiquated 4WD system weighs against the Pathfinder unless you splurge for the top-line LE with the QX4 system, in which case you might as well get the Infiniti and enjoy that brand's red-carpet customer service. Still, neither of these SUVs has what it takes to be a compelling value.
Total Score
| SE 4WD, auto. | LE 4WD w/Leather Pkg., nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 49 | 48 | 49.5 |
Total Score: 49
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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