2008 Nissan Pathfinder LE V8 Review

Big Power - Sized Right

Article by Rob Rothwell (Auto123.com),

Friday, May 02, 2008

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Subtly revised styling front and rear, plus interior design tweaks keep Nissan's mid-size SUV fresh while retaining its visual distinctiveness. Perhaps more important than reworking the Pathfinder visually is what Nissan managed to do beneath the hood. My tester was powered by a formidable V8- the first ever for Pathfinder.

Distinctive appearance encompasses comfort and functionality
Like its larger sibling, the Armada, the Pathfinder exhibits a rugged yet sophisticated appearance that adheres to Nissan's design language of late and sets it apart from competitors. Cabin design is less exciting but well thought-out nonetheless.

Controls are logically positioned and intuitive to operate. Adjustable foot pedals along with a tilt steering column assist in fine-tuning the driving position. Pathfinder front seats are big, plush and remarkably supportive, contributing fatigue-free motoring.

Like its larger sibling, the Armada, the Pathfinder exhibits a rugged yet sophisticated appearance.

All Pathfinders are equipped with 50/50-split third row seating; although fairly easy to access, these perches are less than ideal for adults but perfectly serviceable for children when the need arises. Particularly noteworthy is the 40/20/40 tri-split second row bench seat.

The third row is sectioned into three independently folding seats, which adds to the multiple configurations available to accommodate just about any conceivable mix of cargo and passengers. As with the front thrones, there is plenty of second-row head and legroom.

Big power on-tap for 2008
The Pathfinder's optional V8 adds 1000lbs of additional towing capability to the vehicle over and above what the V6-powered Pathfinder is rated. The more muscular powerplant is tow-rated at 3,175kg (7,000lbs), which can be an important feature to boat and trailer owners. Unlike the Ford Explorer, trailer-sway mitigation is not available on the Pathfinder.

Nissan's big DOHC V8 displaces 5.6-liters and utilizes CVVTCS (Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System) to generate 310-horsepower @ 5,200 rpm and 388 Pound-feet of torque @ 3,400 rpm. That's a lot of kick for an SUV that performs quite smartly with its 266-horsepower V6 base engine.