I got to take the high-spec, 7-seater 4,0i V6 automatic model for a drive to see if Nissan’s claims of improved interior quality, tweaked styling and additional standard equipment were worthwhile or not.
It remains a sharp looker with features such as extensive brightwork, new alloys and a revised bumper and bonnet adding to the aggressive image. The usual butch SUV addenda such as sporty roof racks and running boards add to the appeal. Privacy glass (and trust us, there’s a lot of it here) further contributes to the macho appearance.
But at a not inconsiderable R528 800, the 4,0i V6 model will have to impress inside as well. The quality revisions provide a more comfortable environment but fit, finish and perceived quality are not entirely faultless; the passenger airbag cover is ill fitting and some plastics on the centre console were already scratched…
While many SUVs can be forgiven for some rough finishing, at the Pathfinder’s price one might expect more.
Still, electric and heated leather seats and good space (up front) make spending time in the Pathfinder’s cabin rather pleasant. Ergonomics are good and switching between driving modes (should you elect to venture off-road) is made simple by a dash-mounted switch.
The revised instrument cluster is classier and, thankfully, Nissan has bucked the trend of doing away with the temperature gauge. A Bose Premium Sound system provides good sound reproduction and comes with nine speakers.
A new info-tainment system featuring a 40GB hard drive, touch screen, Bluetooth and satellite navigation is an optional extra and adds R25 000 to the base list price. Passengers in the second row are well provided for with map lights, an armrest and ventilation outlets, compensating somewhat for the slightly cramped feel when taller passengers are sitting in front.
Third-row seating is, as expected, better suited to kids – getting into them isn’t the most elegant of maneuvers, either. Unlike the Ford Everest, the Pathfinder is fitted with a folding parcel shelf to keep valuables out of sight.
However, folding this piece of equipment up in order to raise the two rear seats is not the simplest of tasks. Luggage capacity is a commodious 432 litres when the third row of seats is folded down. Safety has also been enhanced, the Pathfinder now boasting side and curtain airbags. With a 4,0i V6 up front, this particular Pathfinder should make for a spirited, if thirsty, drive.
While the big six hasn’t been upgraded (the diesel version gains increased power and torque outputs) it didn’t have to be. It remains a silky smooth motor with a refined growl accompanying the substantial thrust on offer.
Producing 198 kW at 5600 r/min and 385 N.m. of torque at 4000 r/min, it doesn’t need to be revved all that high for rapid progress. Claimed performance figures include a 0-100 km/h time of 8,8 seconds and a top speed of 190 km/h. The 5-speed automatic transmission can be a bit slow to kick down, but it also comes with a manual mode operated by flicking the gearlever to the left.
Even with some visible play in the rack and pinion steering, especially around the straight-ahead position, the Pathfinder is nevertheless easy to hustle for such a large SUV. Cruising comfort is good with only harsh bumps affecting the separate ladder-frame chassis set-up’s composure. NVH appear to be well controlled, the big Nissan doing well to isolate passengers from the outside world.
All in all, the latest improvements combine to keep Nissan’s Pathfinder fresh and in touch with the competition – competition that isn’t immediately easy to discern, however. The Pathfinder finds itself up against everything from Toyota’s Fortuner (a huge sales success thanks to its outstanding value) to Jeep’s Grand Cherokee.
For those seeking a powerful leisure SUV with all the bells and whistles, standout looks and enough space for the family, the Nissan remains a decent – if expensive - choice.
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