Nissan Pathfinder Ti 4WD 2014 Review

We weren't Robinson Crusoe in our dismay at the demise of the stump jumping, mud plugging, rock hopping Nissan Pathfinder. It was one of a few, real, medium-large 'fourbies' that you could happily set off around Australia in - towing a van or drive to that remote fishing beach up the coast.

What we have now is a "softie" Pathfinder that is designed for so-called "urban cowboys/girls" who rarely if ever go further off road than made-up gravel or to the snow but like the look, size and practicality of a vehicle this shape and size. Given current lifestyle and living trends, the new Pathfinder is totally understandable and would be good for many buyers.

DESIGN

It's a big bugger, with metres of metal panels, big wheels and a long wheelbase, with the wagon body able to take seven passengers in three rows. The front is distinctive and it looks a bit like a Lexus from some angles -- with Murano influences.

VALUE

We got hold of the top of the range Ti 4WD Pathy that sells for $64,890, but you can get into one for less than 40 grand in front wheel drive. The Ti model tested scores heaps of kit including a really handy 360 degree camera, three zone climate control, Bose audio, Bluetooth phone and audio, large info screen with comprehensive trip computer, leather upholstery and something we really like, a cooled (and heated) driver's seat.

Other stuff includes, keyless/button start, cruise, auto headlights (not wipers though), satnav and a useless panoramic sunroof. Safety-wise, Pathy gets some level of driver assist features, such as hill start assist and tyre pressure monitoring, but none of the latest really clever stuff. And it's sad to see the spare is a space saver.

ENGINE / TRANSMISSION

All models have a 3.5-litre, V6 petrol engine, which has been around for yonks having seen duty in various Nissan models including the Maxima and Murano. Its age is showing in terms of output (190kW/325Nm) and economy with the test vehicle struggling to get 12.0 litres/100km in mixed driving.

It's easy to use a lot more than this. But the 73-litre tank gives a reasonable touring range. They put a stepped CVT transmission behind the engine which improves efficiency a tad though it's the old school slurring type of CVT. Works well enough though. Pathy is now on a monocoque (car type) chassis based on the new Altima sedan and as such, gives a more car like drive feel. Great for everyday driving.

DRIVING

Built in the USA, Pathfinder seems well screwed together with the test vehicle exhibiting no rattles, squeaks or untoward panel gaps. The ride is comfortable and controlled within certain boundaries and the 4WD system offers 2WD (Front), on-demand all-wheel-drive (Auto) and 4x4 Lock at 50:50 split front to rear. This system is good enough for a wide range of applications and would be for example, useful pulling a boat out of the water up a steep ramp.

Performance is OK for a vehicle tipping the scales at over 2.0 tonnes. Exercise the right foot and it moves pretty well. The CVT takes a bit to hook up but once underway all's good. It has light wishy washy steering that has little in the way of  feel.

It has plenty to offer the family buyer in practical terms as well as having a decent amount of equipment. But we found the spruiked EZ-Flex rear folding seats were a pain if you just wanted to fold them for extra load capacity.

VERDICT

Big, boofy, bulging new Pathfinder is tailored for the burgeoning SUV segment. Don't take it to Kakadu though.

Nissan Pathfinder Ti 4WD
Price: from $64,890
Engine: 3.5-litre V6 petrol; 190kW/325Nm
Transmission: CVT automatic, FWD
Thirst: 9.9L/100km (12.0L/100km on test), 233g/km