2003 Nissan Pathfinder - Tried, Tested and Traditional
The Pathfinder wasn't the first SUV to hit the market but it does have the rarified heritage of being the first vehicle to drive on planet Mars. OK, maybe I got my notes mixed up? It was the Pathfinder that came to rest on the surface of Mars at 10:07 AM Pacific Daylight Time, July 5, 1997, but it wasn't made by Nissan.
Just the same, Nissan changed the way people thought about 4x4s here on earth when the original 1987 Pathfinder debuted in 1986. It was comfortable and well equipped, offered V6 power and an excellent ride and handling compromise, plus it performed well off-road and looked sensational doing it.
The Pathfinder currently for sale might look quite a bit different than the original, but it's spiritually much the same. Its rugged go-anywhere personality is split by a decidedly comfortable interior and multitude of creature comforts.
Last year the Pathfinder received an updated grille incorporating the new Nissan logo, as well as boxed side step-rails, color-keyed bumpers and fender flares on the SE, plus 17-inch alloy rims on the LE. For 2003 all models get electronic brake distribution (EBD) and the LATCH child seat anchor system standard. The SE gets new 16-inch aluminum wheels and titanium interior trim. Lastly, the LE offers vehicle dynamic control as standard equipment, plus a tire monitoring system, traction control and side curtain airbags.