We say Vast, practical and up to the job of going into the wilderness, but not one for the school run.Performance The Pathfinder’s 2.5-litre turbodiesel has enough power through a manual six-speed but suffers with the auto box. 4-litre V6 is smooth and powerful but the auto box is confused and irritating.Emissions 33mpg and 224g/km with the diesel is as good as the Pathfinder gets.Driving Genuine off-road ability but poor on the tarmac. Body roll, light steering and a firm ride all let the Pathfinder down.
Genuine 4x4 offroad ability, however.Feel The Pathfinder diesel clatter and the petrol snarls. In the former case this is not desirable. The Nissan SUV’s basic ladderframe chassis is rough and ready.Space Plenty of space for five in the Pathfinder. Seven-seater variety offers two mini seats in the back. Rear and middle seats fold flat to make a cavernous load space – over 2,000 litres is possible.Equipment Climate control and CD player as standard, through to high-spec stuff at T-Spec level.Price The Pathfinder offers cheaper starting prices than rivals, but you're likely to recoup less when you sell on. High running costs.Quality The Pathfinder looks durable, though the interior could be more refined.
Nissan engines should be strong.Safety Stability and traction control and loads of airbags comprise the Pathfinder’s safety kit.Pros Good offroad ability, good space, cheap to buy.Cons Not the most refined, especially with the crap auto box.Alternatives Land Rover Discovery, Mitsubishi Shogun, Toyota Land Cruiser
