2006 Nissan Pathfinder: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Wider availability of leather upholstery marks 2006 for Nissan's midsize SUV. Pathfinder is a seven-passenger truck-type wagon with independent rear suspension. It offers four models: S, SE, SE Off-Road, and luxury-oriented LE. All have a 270-hp V6 and a 5-speed automatic transmission.

The SE Off-Road comes with 4-wheel drive; other models offer a choice of rear-drive or 4WD. LE's 4WD is Nissan's All-Mode system that can be left engaged on dry pavement. The 4WD on other models should not be left engaged on dry pavement. All 4WD Pathfinders have low-range gearing. ABS and an antiskid system are standard. Front side airbags and curtain side airbags that cover all seating rows are standard for LE, optional on other models. Pathfinders have a 50/50 split folding 3rd-row seat. Leather upholstery, standard on LE, is optional on SE Off-Road and newly available for SE. SE Off-Road also comes with all-terrain tires, Rancho-brand shock absorbers, additional chassis skid plates, and specific upholstery, plus Nissan's Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist systems. Other available Pathfinder features include power-adjustable pedals and DVD entertainment.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to 8-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buys include Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Our Recommended picks are Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Nissan Murano, Nissan Xterra, and Toyota 4Runner.

New or significantly redesigned models include Hummer H3, Jeep Commander, Pontiac Torrent, and Subaru B9 Tribeca.