Review
Introduction
For the first time in its 22-year history, Nissan is offering a V-8 engine in the mid-size, three-row Pathfinder SUV. The base engine remains the excellent and powerful 4.0-liter V-6 with 266 horsepower. Completely redesigned in 2005, the Pathfinder enters 2008 with not only a new, 310-hp V-8 but also a host of exterior and interior design changes.
Built on the same F-Alpha body-on-frame platform that underpins the Nissan Xterra and the Nissan Frontier, the Pathfinder is solid and sturdy, but it is a bit heavier than some of the newer crossover (unibody) sport-utility vehicles. The driving experience is sportier than the truckish body-on-frame architecture might lead one to believe, however. Pathfinders have good steering, strong brakes, and feel well built. Adding a V-8 gives the Pathfinder impressive acceleration and boosts towing capacity to 7000 pounds.
The popularity of crossover utility vehicles has eaten into the Pathfinder’s traditional body-on-frame SUV segment, and the number of vehicles that compete against the Pathfinder continues to dwindle. Direct competitors (mid-size body-on-frame sport-utility vehicles) to the Pathfinder include the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Ford Explorer, GMC Envoy, Toyota 4Runner, and upcoming Kia Borrego. The Pathfinder is a standout in its segment, thanks to its two powerful engines and its combination of decent on-road refinement and capability.
Pathfinders come in six different trim levels—S, SE V-6, SE Off Road, SE V-8, LE V-6, and LE V-8—that encompass everything from the very basic to the off-road ready to luxurious and leather-lined. The S and the SE Off Road are V-6 only; the SE Off Road is 4WD only.
Verdict
The Pathfinder might not have the lighter structure and overtly carlike demeanor of a crossover utility vehicle, but it does offer a tougher look, excellent steering and handling, and the choice of two terrific and beefy engines. For those still shopping for a traditional SUV with three rows, the Pathfinder is among the best in its segment.
Click here to read our full review of the Nissan Pathfinder.
Click here to read our latest comparison test involving the Nissan Pathfinder.
What’s New for 2008
For 2008, the Pathfinder gets a revised interior that includes a richer-looking center console and instrument gauges. Other changes include new front and rear fascias and new wheel designs that attempt to give the Pathfinder a more up-to-date look. New optional equipment includes the 310-hp, 5.6-liter V-8 and a 9.3-gigabyte music storage system.
