2000 Nissan Pathfinder

By Bob Storck

Pathfinder's exterior package, aided by computer modeling, looks bold and aggressive, but also windswept after a 1991/2 rework. The forward-canted C pillar of Pathfinder conceals rear door handles to retain sporty hints of a 3-door wagon. Most changes make the Pathfinder more luxurious, moving it upscale now that the Xterra has arrived. It will be reworked within a year with a larger engine.

Just looking at Pathfinder from the rear gives a good feeling of competence. Note how many sports utes look tall and tipsy, while the low wide profile and generous track makes the Pathfinder look solid, which it is. Nissan's designers use a monoframe uni-body to form a stiffer body that resists the typical 4-wheeler's tendency to rattles and squeak.

The previous V6 was enlarged by ten percent, with the revamped 3.3-liter unit now matched with either a standard 5-speed manual shifter or optional 4-speed electronic automatic. Pathfinder's optional 4-wheel-drive system employs a sophisticated transfer case that allows a driver to switch from rear-drive to 4x4 traction while underway at speed.

Nissan's California studio applies twin form-fitting front bucket seats and a rear bench for three with seatback split in 60-40 ratio to expand the rear cargo area in various ways.