standards.
We liked the precise response of the power rack and pinion steering
system--another car-like attribute--while braking performance is better
than average for a vehicle in this size and weight class.
However, car-like acceleration isn't part of the deal here. The Pathfinder/
QX4 V6 is willing enough, but it's hitched up to too much mass to produce
zippy getaways. Yes, that's true of most sport-utilities, but even in this
deliberate world the QX4's straight ahead performance stacks up as only
average.
On the other hand, the sturdy V6 has decent low-end grunt, which is
what you want if you're trundling around out in the woods somewhere. And
even though the QX4 isn't really cut out for really tough terrain, it has
enough ground clearance--8.3 inches--to handle Forest Service trails and
the like. A skidplate under the rear differential--part of the QX4's standard
equipment--helps out for this kind of work, too.
It's also capable of towing a good-sized trailer, although we think
testing the 5000-pound upper limit would require patience. Next Page