2013 Nissan Pathfinder PLT 4X4 SUV (998)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder PLT (Platinum) 4X4 SUV. Overall this new version of the Pathfinder receives great consumer approval which I can understand thoroughly.

In the early days of Pathfinder it was rather uninspiring other than it was intended to be a serious off road alternative. But over the years the off road component has become less important and is at best a perception of why you need an off road vehicle. In keeping with that reality the outer appearance has improved for image as a SUV Sport Utility Vehicle made for the family with seating for 7 in its three rows of seats.

Pathfinder’s name implies they are indeed an off road vehicle and held out the longest to adopt the crossover configuration. And that means it put lipstick and a new dress on to go to the ball. I don’t imply it is the “Bell of the Ball” but you’ll have to admit it is very good looking. And the redesign is quieter and roomier inside. It claims a major (25%) improvement in fuel economy as compared to the older model.

General Information:

Parts from the US / Canada n/a. It is assembled in Smyrna, TN. Classification is Small SUV. Cars from Nissan: Altima, Armada, cube, Frontier, GT-R, JUKE, LEAF, Maxima, Murano, NV Cargo, NV Passenger, NV200, Pathfinder, Quest, Rogue, Sentra, Titan, Versa, Versa Note, Xterra and Z.

Handling & Performance:

Excellent in all respects. I really enjoyed driving this Nissan.

Styling:

Crossover redesign gives it a modern day look for the hills of Beverly Hills.

Fit and Finish:

Stands out and clearly up to the competition.

Cost:

Very competitive with all and perhaps in some views most closely aligned with Traverse, Pilot and Durango.
Conveniences and comfort:
Outstanding array of features and conveniences. It is built into the pricing. And personally I could easily live without the Options packages noted here.

Consumer Recommendation:

Surely this will be at the top of the list of those to test drive unless you have a bias to a particular brand. But this Pathfinder is sure to turn your head and give you pause to reflect if Nissan might be a good move.

Recognized Competition:

Nissan Pathfinder $41,000, Acura MDX $43,000, Buick Enclave $38,000, Chevrolet Traverse $42,000, Dodge Durango $38,000, Honda Pilot $41,000, Mazda CX-9 $36,000, Subaru Tribeca $33,000, Toyota 4Runner $41,000, Toyota Highlander $39,000.

Good News:

Nice ride, nice looking and easy on the wallet or purse. Me, I don’t carry a purse but to each his own. Fuel economy is acceptable for a 7-passenger SUV.

Bad News:

Nothing jumped out at me so I didn’t want to spoil the date.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 200 Horsepower V6, Continuous Variable Transmission, Intuitive 4-wheel drive, 4-wheel vented ABS power disc brakes, electronic brake force distribution, 20” alloy wheels, front and side curtain airbags, LATCH child safety and rear door locks, vehicle dynamic control, traction control, immobilizer and security system, tire pressure monitor, 7-passenger seating, 3-rows leather seating with easy flex second row glide system, third row 50/50 split fold flat seating, 8-way power driver seat, 4-way power passenger seat, heated and cooled front seats, heated second row seats, power windows and locks, leather wrapped steering wheels and shift knob, memory for driver, intelligent key with push button start, Remote engine start, climate control, rear sonar system, HDD nav system with voice recognition, traffic and weather, Sirius XM radio, Bose audio with CD/USB and MP3 playback, Bluetooth streaming audio, and hands free phone, 8” color monitor, advanced drive assist display, 4 12-volt outlets and one 120v outlet, power liftgate, power mirrors, auto headlights, fog lights, stainless steel kick plates, tow hitch, roof rails.
Options: Platinum premium package with entertainment system with DVD 7”, headphones wireless remote control, rear headphone jacks and Dual panorama moon roof with tinted glass with rear sliding sun shade for about $2,300 .

Gas Stats:

$3.89 / Gal avg. October 1, 2013

www.fueleconomy.gov
For more information.

19 City and 25 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $40,770.