2003 Nissan Pathfinder

With close ties to Infiniti's posh QX4, the Pathfinder conveys the feel and look of luxury without the higher price tag. The level of fit and finish is high with an attractive faux-wood dash panel, supportive front seats and useful features, all of which make the interior one of the most enticing of any SUV on the market. For 2003, the Pathfinder received a stability control system and a tire-pressure monitor.


We especially liked the legibility of the whiteface gauges, and the headlights seem brighter than most low beams on the road (which provoked an occasional flash of high beams from oncoming traffic). The XM radio is a nice feature, especially on long trips where conventional signal strength is inconsistent. You have to get used to the loading time on the XM system, but it's worth the wait.

The 2003 Pathfinder boasts a 3.5-liter V-6 engine with 240 hp and 265 lb.-ft. of torque.

Only a few complaints: The HVAC controls are fairly similar to the volume control on the audio system, and we found ourselves still mistaking the two, even after week of drive time. Another pair of switches that can be easily confused are those for the dome light and sunroof. We also wonder if youngsters climbing in and out of the rear seat might find it easy to step on the cupholders that slide out from the center console at foot level. Why not simply put them in the armrest between the seats? We also thought it a bit strange there was no key entry on the passenger-side front door. None of these gripes are terribly significant, though, in context with the generally excellent execution of the Pathfinder.


Since the Pathfinder is moderate in size, the capacious 85 cubic feet of cargo space comes as a surprise. Adults confined to the second row of seats may wish for a bit less luggage space in favor of more legroom.


This member of the Nissan family is probably the most well rounded and easygoing of the lot. It's fairly easy to distinguish the Pathfinder from its siblings in size, purpose and refinement. The Pathfinder can head off-road with the best of them, yet still coddle you in creature comforts and stay light on its feet in city driving—virtues that really stand out among just about any make of SUV, Nissan or otherwise. (www.nissan.com)