Nissan recently introduced a new Pathfinder SUV, the fifth generation, a big
comfortable SUV. Utilising the previous generations silky 3.5-litre V6 engine but
with refinements, now driving through a smooth nine-speed automatic in lieu of
the previous continuous variable transmission. Released in December in six
variants from $54,190 however by February Nissan had trimmed them to just two
somewhat expensive high grade all-wheel-drives due to supply issues – the
Pathfinder Ti at $71,490 and the flagship Ti-L at $81,490. The Ti an eight-seater,
the Ti-L a seven-seater with two individual captain’s chairs in the second row.
This big SUV has a go-anywhere appeal but best suited as a city slicker for a
large family – and in this regard its interior is spacious and very user friendly
apart from the lack of seat height adjustment on the passenger seat. It’s not
meant to be a hard-nosed off-roader like the Nissan Patrol or Toyota Landcruiser
but it’s well capable of handling a rough dirt track with a good degree of comfort
and ability. But as a large family carrier it’s got some real competition from the
likes of the Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Kluger and Mazda CX-9. It comes with
ANCAP five-star safety and five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty. I’m David
Berthon.

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