2005-2008 Nissan Pathfinder: Road Test

Pathfinder is capably peppy. Our test 2WD SE clocked 7.8 sec 0-60 mph. Passing maneuvers require a brief moment for the transmission to downshift, but power is ample thereafter. Fuel economy is a sore point. Test 2WD SE averaged an acceptable 17.0 mpg in a city/highway mix despite gas-eating performance tests, but test 4WD versions averaged just 13.6-15.7 mpg in routine driving. Nissan recommends premium-grade fuel. Pathfinder's suspension is less absorbent than many car-type rivals, but fine for a truck. The 16-inch tires iron out broken pavement better than LE models' 17s or SE Off-Road models' all-terrain treads. Still, bumps and expansion joints can cause some bounce, wheel patter, and even body shudder. Handling is decent, with direct, responsive steering. But even low-effort cornering induces nose plow--body lean typical of truck-type SUVs. Also note that the turning radius is too wide for close-quarters maneuvering. The brakes are smooth and progressive, however. Inside, drivers will find well-placed gauges and user-friendly controls. The available navigation system takes time to learn, but doesn't absorb audio/climate controls--a huge plus. Cabin surfaces are nicely padded in places most frequently touched, but mostly hard plastic elsewhere, which imparts a low-budget ambience. The LE model's wood-tone trim lends a classier look. Occupant space is good up front, with ample leg and headroom. Available adjustable pedals allow pilots to tailor a good driving position. Thick roof pillars impede driver visibility over the shoulders. Second-row headroom is good, even beneath sunroof housing. The third row seats are sized for kids, and are tricky to access even with the standard tumble-forward 2nd-row seats. All rear seats fold to form a level load deck without removing headrests. A fold-flat front-passenger seatback is available for longer cargo items.

Value for the Money
For everyday driving ease and fuel economy, this truck-type SUV trails such car-type rivals as the Honda Pilot and Nissan's own Murano. Plus, only the top-line LE offers the convenience of 4-wheel drive that can be left engaged on dry pavement. However, Pathfinder does possess a solid array of true-SUV attributes, including real off-road prowess and a 6000-lb trailer-towing capacity.