2006 Nissan Pathfinder SE Off-road

What a difference a redesign makes. Now that the remake is completed, we tested the 2006 Pathfinder to check out the changes. It is offered in four versions, the S, SE, SE Off Road and top-of-the-line LE, which all received new sheet metal along with 5 inches added length and 3 inches added width for 2005.

We tested the Off Road in dolled-up SE trim to see how Pathfinder has shed its age spots. Off Road means it comes with four-wheel-drive and stiffer shocks as well as underbody skid plates for off-road protection. Base price of the SE Off Road edition is $31,450.

What makes most take notice is that the old fogey (Pathfinder has been around since 1986) has so much power thanks to its 4-liter, 270-horsepower V-6 engine, compared with a 240-hp V-6 in the past.

Other than raw power, Pathfinder's strong suit is its decidedly non-truck-like ride.

 Handling still is sport-utility-like, meaning you aren't going to take corners with pinpoint      accuracy. A standard feature is dynamic vehicle control, a stability control system. 

The expanded dimensions give Pathfinder room to sport three rows of seats so it can hold seven, up from five. To get to the third row, you flip the lever on the top of the second-row seats and the back folds forward and the bottom flips against the front seats.

Second-row seats are cozy and the backs recline for added comfort on those long trips. In the second row, lift the bottom cushions and there are two compartments built into the floor to hide items. But getting the lids open was a chore.

Cargo area behind the third-row seat is fairly ample for some luggage. Pull the lever on the third-row seat backs, and they quickly fold flat. Noteworthy touches include a window that opens separately from the hatch for easier loading/unloading without having to open the lid and rubberized backing on the third-row seats to carry wet items.

Also, you only have to turn the dial in the dash to engage four-wheel-drive. Then there's the Hill Descent Control that limits engine speed in going down hills so you don't have to ride the brakes, and Hill Start Assist, which allows you stop on an incline and take your foot off the brake without rolling backward. 

(Above article was written by Jim Mateja and can be found in full at www.charleston.net/stories)

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