2010 Nissan Pathfinder

Originally introduced in 1986 as a two-door body-on-frame sport/utility vehicle, the Nissan Pathfinder has evolved over the years, adding a four-door version late during the first generation, switching to a unibody design and dropping the two-door model for the second generation, and returning to a body-on-frame setup for the third generation.

Now six years into gen three, the Pathfinder is on the eve of an all-new replacement. Given the segment's inclination towards unibody design, which fundamentally provides better ride and handling, the next Pathfinder will most likely ditch its truck roots in favor of a unibody's more carlike dynamics. Until then, Nissan is offering its capable, truck-based Pathfinder with V-6 or V-8 power, seven-passenger seating, and rear- or all-wheel drive.

The Pathfinder shares platform pieces with the Titan pickup truck and Armada and Xterra sporty/utility vehicles, but boasts an independent rear suspension for better dynamics. A 5.6-liter V-8 borrowed from the Armada and Titan is available. Both the Pathfinder's second- and third-row seats fold flat, enlarging cargo capacity to a respectable 79.2 cubic feet.

Bodystyle: SUVEngines: 4.0L V-6, 5.6L V-8Transmission: 5-speed automaticModels: S, S FE+, SE, LE, LE-V8

For 2010, the Pathfinder LE receives a standard moonroof and the LE-V8 gets standard navigation. Opt for the new LE-V8 Value Package and get a DVD player with seven-inch color monitor for backseat riders. A fresh Premium Journey Package for the SE includes 17-inch alloys, backup camera, roof rack crossbars, 10-speaker Bose audio, XM satellite radio, Bluetooth phone capability, and intelligent key.

Pathfinder's signatures design cues are evident in the large headlamps, big flared fenders, and high-mounted rear door handles integrated into the C-pillars. Wheel sizes range from 16 to 18 inches, with all sizes nicely accentuating the 112.2-inch wheelba

With standard seven-passenger seating and up to 79.2 cubic feet of cargo, the Pathfinder pampers further with available leather-trimmed seats, a heated steering wheel, navigation with 9.3GB music hard drive, Bluetooth phone capability, and backup camera.

The Pathfinder's standard engine continues to be a 4.0-liter VQ-series V-6 that delivers 266 horsepower and 288 pound-feet of torque. If that's not enough oomph, an available 5.6-liter V-8 generates 310 horsepower and 388 pound-feet. Each engine is mated to a five-speed automatic. While all Pathfinders use a front control-arm/rear multi-link suspension, V-6 models can tow up to 6000 pounds, the V-8, 7000.

Nissan equips every Pathfinder with front, front-side, and side curtain airbags, the last for outboard occupants in all three rows. The Pathfinder also gets front-seat active head restraints, stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system.

S, S FE+: 15 mpg city/22 mpg highwaySE 4WD, LE 4WD: 14 mpg city/20 mpg highwayLE-V8: 13 mpg city/18 mpg highway

• Seven-passenger seating
• Available 4WD
• Rugged looks
• Good power

• Fuel thirsty
• New model around corner
• Bouncy ride

Long in tooth but still solid

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