The
2010 Nissan Pathfinder is a sport utility vehicle (SUV) that seats up to seven passengers comfortably and is available in three trim levels: S, LE, and SE. Powered by a 4.0-liter V-6 or a 5.6-liter V-8 engine coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission, the Nissan Pathfinder comes with all- or rear-wheel drive and uses body-on-frame construction.
The Nissan Pathfinder's boasts strong towing capabilities and second/third row seats are foldable, so the vehicle can handle up to 79.2 cubic feet of cargo capacity. Inside, the Pathfinder is quite attractive and features driver-friendly ergonomics as well as luxury items at the upper trim levels. Competent standard safety equipment earns the Pathfinder good ratings, but the SUV is a gas guzzler that gets only 14 mpg city / 20 mpg highway.
New for 2010
For 2010, the Nissan Pathfinder LE received a standard moon roof and the LE-V8 received a standard navigation system. There is a new LE-V8 Value Package that includes a DVD player with seven-inch color monitor for backseat passengers. The Premium Journey Package was updated to include 17-inch alloys, backup camera, roof rack crossbars, 10-speaker Bose audio, XM satellite radio, Bluetooth phone capability, and intelligent keyless entry.
Essentials
Engines: 4.0L V-6, 5.6L V-8
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Body Style: SUV
Trims: S Sport Utility, LE Sport Utility, SE Sport Utility
On the Outside
The Nissan Pathfinder is distinguished by its large head lamps, big flared fenders, and high-mounted rear door handles that are integrated into the C-pillars. With a wheelbase of 112.2 inches, the Pathfinder sports wheel sizes ranging from 16 to 18 inches.
From the Inside
Boasting standard seven-passenger seating and up to 79.2 cubic feet of cargo space, the Nissan Pathfinder offers such luxuries as leather-trimmed seats, a heated steering wheel, navigation with 9.3GB music hard drive, Bluetooth phone capability, and backup camera.
Driving Performance
The 2010 Nissan Pathfinder's standard engine is a 4.0-liter VQ-series V-6 generating 266 horsepower and 288 pound-feet of torque. Optionally, a 5.6-liter V-8 that churns out 310 horsepower and 388 pound-feet is available. No matter which engine you choose, it is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. All Nissan Pathfinders use a front control-arm/rear multi-link suspension. While the V-6 trims can tow up to 6000 pounds, the V-8 trims pull 7000 pounds.
Safety Equipment
Standard safety equipment on every Nissan Pathfinder includes front, front-side, and side curtain airbags, the last for outboard passengers in all three rows. Also standard are front-seat active head restraints, stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Gas Mileage
S, S FE+: 15 mpg city/22 mpg highway
SE 4WD, LE 4WD: 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway
LE-V8: 13 mpg city/18 mpg highway
Plusses
- Room for seven-passengers
- Rugged good looks
- Plenty of power
Minuses
- Poor gas mileage
- Cramped back seats
- Bumpy ride
Rating
Truckish SUV with plenty of power but short on styling
People Who Like the 2010 Nissan Pathfinder Also Like
- Ford Explorer
- Kia Borrego
- Toyota 4Runner