2003 Nissan Pathfinder

Nissan's range of SUVs is a microcosm of the SUV market in general. At the entry level is the rough-and-ready Xterra; for the sportier segment there's the stylish, car-based Murano; and to run with the big dogs, look for the Armada coming out soon, which is based on Nissan's new full-sized Titan pickup. So how does the midsize Pathfinder fit into this melange?

With close ties to Infiniti's posh QX4, the Pathfinder conveys the feel and look of luxury without the higher price tag.

Very well, thank you. This modern, broad-purpose vehicle delivers comfort, toughness and utility, and remains a remarkably well-rounded offering in the crowded SUV market. Even though the Pathfinder has been in the line the longest of all Nissan SUVs, with a design dating back to 1996, the company has kept it fresh with frequent updates and refinements.


For instance, in the past, critics cited the lack of power, but that has been rectified with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine, which provides 240 horsepower and 265 lb.-ft. of torque. The Pathfinder's drive-by-wire throttle control delivers quick yet smooth acceleration, and it cruises effortlessly at highway speeds. What keeps the Pathfinder competitive, as well, is its excellent ride and handling. The unibody chassis feels solid and tight, and emits a solid thunk when the doors slam shut.


In other improvements over the years, the interior has been restyled, and more standard features added. All Pathfinders now come with a four-speed automatic transmission, and offer a choice of rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. On the lower-priced SE model, the latter option provides a shift-on-the-fly transfer case that can be engaged at speeds up to 50 mph. On the better-equipped LE model we tested, however, there's a more advanced automatic All-Mode four-wheel-drive system that operates with pushbutton simplicity. The SE's 4WD must be disengaged on dry pavement, but the LE uses the Infiniti QX4's All-Mode 4WD, which can be left engaged on dry pavement. Both systems include low-range gearing.

The level of fit and finish is high with an attractive faux-wood dash panel and supportive front seats.

In off-road conditions, the Pathfinder is quite capable, especially if you order the limited-slip differential. We were impressed with its ability to climb and descend steep, rocky sections. The chassis has supple suspension articulation, along with good approach and departure angles. Even with its car-like interior, we wouldn't hesitate to take a Pathfinder on a trail ride, all the while feeling far more pampered than the typical hardcore four-wheeler.