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.
The Pathfinder XE makes its unique styling statement by avoiding the chrome, glitter and glitz found on some of its counterparts. You might think it plain. But it is also utilitarian and purposeful, like a good quality tool. Three black vinyl air scoops on the front of the hood and a companion black vinyl clad bumper and matching grille in an understated chrome frame convey the vehicle's clean but rough-and-ready personality. Rectangular headlamps and side markers, both in impact-resistant lenses, are augmented by fog lamps and amber cornering lamps imbedded in the bumper beneath. A large, heavy-duty towing eye completes the front-end treatment. In profile, an ordinary but functional black step bar replaces the expected running board. Recessed door handles and the utter absence of chrome trim or insignia add to the dramatic styling.
Out back, the Pathfinder's signature spare tire carrier swings out and to the right to reveal a drop gate and lift-up rear window. The carrier also features a locking pin to make certain it does not slam back into you.
The paint on our test vehicle was a lustrous dark green, devoid of imperfections. Pathfinder graphics appear on the spare tire cover, mud flaps an rear side windows. The only exterior disappointment was the roof rack, which appeared to be on the delicate side. Sure enough, a check of the specs revealed that the rack is rated for a mere 80-pound load maximum.
