Since 1986, the Nissan Pathfinder has been one of the best mid-size SUVs on the market. The only drawback through the years has been the lack of sufficient power, which has been addressed with each makeover.
However, for 2008, Nissan has finally plugged the gap by adding its potent, 310-horsepower, 5.6-liter V8 under the hood for the first time. This is the same engine used in the Nissan Titan pickup and full-size Armada SUV.
Nissan’s 4.0-liter V6 with 270 horsepower is the standard engine and is the largest V6 on the market. All models are available with two-wheel or four-wheel drive.
Now that Nissan has solved the horsepower problem, it should be able to attract new customers who need a more rugged vehicle than the car-based Murano. Pathfinders can go anywhere and a few places other competitive SUVs wouldn’t try. Despite its rugged off-road ability, the Pathfinder provides a very comfortable freeway ride thanks to the independent rear suspension and large tires.
We recently tested a V6 model with automatic transmission. We didn’t do any heavy-duty off-roading, but did get a chance to turn the knob into four-wheel drive on a few back roads.
There are three trim levels plus a special off-road package available.
In addition to adding its first V8, Nissan also cleaned up the exterior for a sleeker look while retaining its distinctive vertical rear door handles. The interior also received a makeover.
Nissan offers three rows of seating, although the rear most seats are for children only. Even the second row seating is limited in legroom, but reclining seat backs help provide a little more comfort.
Some of the key interior amenities include a rear view camera on the 4x6 display screen in the center dash. This is available even if you don’t order the optional navigation system. The steering wheel tilts and complements the adjustable gas and brake pedals. Storage space in the front cabin includes two center console cupholders, plus pockets in the doors for bottles. There are two glove compartments on the passenger side.
With more backwoods use in mind, the Pathfinder has a split rear tailgate for easy access and a rubberized surface in the cargo area and seat backs. The two rows of back seats fold flat with ease. An available cargo net keeps groceries from sliding around on the floor with the seats folded.
The Pathfinder might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you’re looking for something a little more rugged and versatile it is a great choice.

Ryan’s Ride –
For whatever reasons, Nissan always seems to come in third when buyers think about Japanese imports behind Toyota and Honda. They all make the same types of models with their main brand and upscale model lines. As a result, Nissan always lags behind the other two in sales although Nissan is one of the more profitable companies.
The Pathfinder suffers from that number three ranking as well. It’s always been a terrific SUV, despite its earlier woes in the power department. But that has been solved, especially with the availability of a V8 now.
But we found the V6 quite capable during our week-long test. The highway ride was especially smooth, possibly because we had just finished driving a Hummer H3.
One of the Pathfinder’s other drawbacks has been its exterior styling that has undergone several improvements through the years. The 2008 model is two inches longer than the previous version, allowing for the third row of seating. Even though the rear area is cramped, there’s plenty of headroom because of the nearly vertical rear.
With a price tag near $35,000, the Pathfinder isn’t cheap by any means. But it will get you places a Ford Explorer would never think to go at the same price.
The backup camera, even without the navigation system, is a great touch. The screen also serves as an information system for the audio and climate controls.
Speaking of climate controls, that would be my one complaint about our test Pathfinder. You have to have the AC on and adjust the temperature for heat. Finding a comfort zone was difficult, especially during our recent cold spell.
Even though I didn’t need it, I did put the SUV into four-wheel drive while leaving the North Georgia Mountains that received a light coating of snow overnight. But it was nice to have as a security blanket.

Marilyn’s Moment –
Ryan tried to get me to buy a Pathfinder several years ago but I didn’t buy it. Not because I didn’t like the SUV, I didn’t like the salesman.
That was several years ago and one of the other reasons I didn’t buy was because of the lack of power.
But, our test model had more than enough power, even with the V6 engine. The V8 would probably be even more impressive, although I’m sure the fuel mileage would be a factor.
The Pathfinder had a very smooth ride and was great in the handling department.
The Pathfinder isn’t the prettiest SUV on the outside with rather plain Jane styling. But it is functional, except for the rear door handles. They sit high on the C pillar and small children might have trouble reaching them.
The rubberized covering in the back is great for cleaning up muddy cargo, but normal items do slide around a lot, unless you can put them into the cargo net.
One of the best things about the Pathfinder is that it’s easy to get into the seats – no side rails needed – and the cargo area is low for easy loading. The adjustable pedals are a nice addition as well. Even though the driver’s seat is power operated, you can leave it in place and adjust the pedals for a comfortable driving position.
After a week driving the 2008 Pathfinder, I might be convinced to buy one now. And that salesman is not at the Nissan dealership anymore. I married him and made him get a “real” job.