New Car Review of the 2004 Nissan Pathfinder Mid-Size Sport Utility Vehicle

Description: Mid-Size SUV
Base MSRP Range: $26,900 - $40,600
Invoice Price Range: $24,878 - $36,912

Nissan's mid-size SUV romps, thanks to a souped-up engine. The aluminum twin-cam 3.5-liter V6 produces 250 hp when teamed with a manual transmission, or 240 hp with an automatic.

Pathfinder offers rear 2WD or a part-time 4WD traction. The 4WD device uses a transfer case for switching from rear-wheel to four-wheel high-gear while underway at speeds up to 50 mph.

Pathfinder's exterior package presents bold and athletic sheetmetal contours prefaced by a high hood and chin-forward face. Side panels are scored by rolled shoulders and low cladding, forming strong horizontal lines near the ground between flared wheelwells.

Cabin layout applies twin torso-sculptured front bucket seats and a rear bench for three with seatback split in 60-40 ratio to expand the rear cargo area. Pathfinder's deluxe LE edition switches names to become the Platinum Edition rigged with electroluminescent gauges, aluminum kick plates and dark wood trim plus an optional platinum-tinged paint job.