REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Very bourgeois

As much as I was charmed by the first-generation Pathfinder, later versions were only a disappointment. Were my expectations too high? I don ’ t know. What I do know however, is that the first generation was downright exciting. Energetic and fun to drive, the original Pathfinder had an appealing personality, diametrically opposed to its replacement’s, a model that plays at being aristocratic with its chrome grille and wheel covers so shiny and flashy you’ll think twice before daring to drive this model through mud puddles.To avoid losing momentum, the Pathfinder is being updated in order to compete with the ever growing competition. Last year, the Pathfinder received restyled nose and hips, under which sit redesigned rims. To facilitate access to the throne, step rails situated below the doors are curved against the sides of the body. However, they are a bit short in the back, making access to rear seats tricky. The back bench is generously padded and is equipped with a reclining fold-down seat mechanism. However, comfort is acceptable at best.

All in all, one feels a little cramped in this Pathfinder (cargo space is lacking too). More than in any other respect, this is where the Pathfinder truly reveals its age.Among the adjustments made to the Pathfinder last year was a new V6 engine. Of higher cubic capacity (3.5-litres), this engine is not only more virile (in power and in torque), but it is also stronger, more refined (variable admission) and lighter. Despite the fact is requires Super fuel and is not at all efficient (an average of 14.9 litres per 100 km during the test drive), this engine has no difficulty making us forget the 3.3-litre V6 engine that once powered the Pathfinder.

The stopwatch confirms that acceleration and pick up time are better than before (this Pathfinder shaved a second off its time to reach 100 km/h.) The four-speed automatic transmission is the only available option and relies on a V6 engine. Unlike its richer cousin however, the QX4, the Pathfinder has less sophisticated machinery to command its 4WD.

While performance has improved (acceleration and pickup), braking has not as the Pathfinder continues to rely on the classic disc- drum combination. This is all the more regrettable since the Pathfinder has never been known for its exploits in this area and has a rather long braking distance. It ’ s obvious that the engineers preferred to concentrate on reducing internal vibrations and noises in order to better convince occupants of the Pathfinder ’ s consistency and comfort.

Is it the monoshell body, its dimensions or the astonishing steering precision that gives the impression that the Pathfinder behaves like a car? Whatever it is, it makes for pleasant everyday driving. Contrary to many of its rivals, the Pathfinder has no trouble negotiating city traffic, and its turning radius (11.4 metres ) is nothing to be ashamed of compared to sedans of equivalent size.

The Pathfinder also does well in the fast lane. Rolling is barely perceptible and the Pathfinder has good road adherence, albeit lower than that of a sedan. On poor roads, the rear suspension might wake the passengers seated in the back. It hops a little and vibrates from time to time, but the soundproofing materials manage to silence audible structural complaints.

Thinking of taking your Pathfinder off-road? You should know that only the fuel tank benefits from a protective shield to resist "hits" from stones and roots. You have been warned!

PROS
Good price/accessory ratio
Tough and reliable
Good for daily driving

CONS
Super fuel recommended
Long braking distance
Limited off-road capability

CRASH TEST (five stars indicate the best protection)
Driver: * * * *
Passenger: * * * * *

New nose 16" wheels 2001

You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.