As strong as a horse?
During our comparative test, the new Pathfinder LE V8 had mixed reviews in certain aspects. We praised this Nissan for its excellent cargo capacity and its generous amount of power for towing. With a new 310-hp, 388-lb/ft V8, the upgraded Pathfinder did not disappoint us. However, the intelligent keyless entry system had a few bad surprises in store for us -- nothing that Nissan could not rectify, though.
Visual updates
The 2008 Pathfinder is clearly unmistakeable, although the automaker softened the front and rear ends. The flared fenders give the vehicle quite a substantial look, especially with the 18-inch wheels.
Convenient and spacious
That's what this SUV is all about: convenience and space. While the threshold is high, sidesteps and well-positioned handles allow easy access. Thanks to a power-adjustable driver's seat and telescopic steering wheel, the LE model offers a good driving position. The instrument panel is comprehensive and user-friendly, except for the transfer case control (2WD/4WD), which is too low and obstructed by the steering wheel. The engine block and transmission assembly also reduce legroom for the front passenger.
There are many useful storage bins throughout the Pathfinder, including in the door panels, dashboard and center console. The interior is comfortable and the audio system is pleasant despite annoying high frequencies. And while sound-deadening materials do a good job of isolating the passenger compartment, there's a significant amount of noise coming from the front wheels when 4WD is engaged.
Huge cargo area
As you can see by our pictures, we used all the available space to load our tools, equipment, food and personal items for our weekend at Mosport, Ontario (I was participating in the President's Cup). The third row effectively folds out of view, but the second-row seatbacks require extra effort to manipulate and they don't fold completely flat (on the same level with the rear floor section).
I have to admit, however, that the various cargo tie-down hooks are ideally spread across the floor, particularly the ones integrated to the C-pillars, near the rear doors. They are readily accessible and allowed us to firmly secure our gear in order to avoid hazardous movements during transitional or braking maneuvers. The Pathfinder is one of the few SUVs to offer as many convenient tie-downs.
During our comparative test, the new Pathfinder LE V8 had mixed reviews in certain aspects. We praised this Nissan for its excellent cargo capacity and its generous amount of power for towing. With a new 310-hp, 388-lb/ft V8, the upgraded Pathfinder did not disappoint us. However, the intelligent keyless entry system had a few bad surprises in store for us -- nothing that Nissan could not rectify, though.
 |
| The Pathfinder's visual updates give it a more substantial look. |
Visual updates
The 2008 Pathfinder is clearly unmistakeable, although the automaker softened the front and rear ends. The flared fenders give the vehicle quite a substantial look, especially with the 18-inch wheels.
Convenient and spacious
That's what this SUV is all about: convenience and space. While the threshold is high, sidesteps and well-positioned handles allow easy access. Thanks to a power-adjustable driver's seat and telescopic steering wheel, the LE model offers a good driving position. The instrument panel is comprehensive and user-friendly, except for the transfer case control (2WD/4WD), which is too low and obstructed by the steering wheel. The engine block and transmission assembly also reduce legroom for the front passenger.
There are many useful storage bins throughout the Pathfinder, including in the door panels, dashboard and center console. The interior is comfortable and the audio system is pleasant despite annoying high frequencies. And while sound-deadening materials do a good job of isolating the passenger compartment, there's a significant amount of noise coming from the front wheels when 4WD is engaged.
Huge cargo area
As you can see by our pictures, we used all the available space to load our tools, equipment, food and personal items for our weekend at Mosport, Ontario (I was participating in the President's Cup). The third row effectively folds out of view, but the second-row seatbacks require extra effort to manipulate and they don't fold completely flat (on the same level with the rear floor section).
I have to admit, however, that the various cargo tie-down hooks are ideally spread across the floor, particularly the ones integrated to the C-pillars, near the rear doors. They are readily accessible and allowed us to firmly secure our gear in order to avoid hazardous movements during transitional or braking maneuvers. The Pathfinder is one of the few SUVs to offer as many convenient tie-downs.
 |
| With a 2,243-liter maximum cargo capacity, the Pathfinder is extremely versatile. |