Nissan Pathfinder Overview

Nissan's contribution to the sport utility vehicle category looks primed and ready for an off-road excursion. And for once, looks aren't deceiving.

One trip off the beaten path proved to us that Nissan packed superb off-road capabilities, good overall performance, high quality and some thoughtful interior touches into our 1994 Pathfinder XE 4x4 test vehicle (LE pictured). The Pathfinder is Nissan's entry into the highly competitive midsize sport utility segment and has hummed quietly along in sales since it was introduced in 1987.

Then, the Pathfinder gave off-road enthusiasts and a lot of others much to like. it was one of the first imports to bring Japanese quality and V6 power to this segment, and the vehicle competed very favorably with domestics such as the Chevrolet Blazer, Ford Explorer and Jeep Cherokee. Since the Pathfinder's debut, Ford has upgraded the Explorer greatly and Jeep has introduced the Grand Cherokee. Pathfinder has made some subtle improvements but remains substantially the same as introduced. A price advantage over the competition has largely disappeared as the Japanese yen soared against our dollar. Thus, with an MSRP of $21,099, we find it nearing the top of the class yet not quite on the cutting edge. Its looks are a little plainer than Explorer or Grand Cherokee, and it loses some on power. Still, it packs a lot of value, including amenities such as air conditioning and a premium sound system. And it has that legendary Japanese fit-and-finish, while performing strongly off- and on-road.