Body Builder: All-New Nissan Pathfinder

The 2006 Pathfinder combines rugged body-on-frame construction with the superior ride and handling characteristics of 4-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension.

One of the key ingredients of a strong challenger in the teeming masses of SUVs dotting the trails is a strong powerplant. Whilst Nissan has the relevant 4x4 technology, that alone could not carry the burden of making a good vehicle competent. With the volume boosted to 4.0-litres and horsepower and torque curves suitably remapped to workhorse geometry, the new Pathfinder's engine significantly improves on its predecessor's.

This get up and go is one thing, looking and feeling good in the process is another altogether, and Nissan has come up with an exterior that is absolutely in sync with the times. In its new guise, the Pathfinder boasts angular chrome verticals that bracket the familiar Nissan logo centred in the grille.

Crisply outlined headlight lenses fold around the edges of the fenders. The muscular bumper houses a wide, low air intake, with small, round sockets for the optional fog lights just inboard of the fender blister creases that envelope the 16-inch tyres (optional 17-inchers). Short overhangs front and rear highlight the new Pathfinder's off-road character.

For the Middle East, the Pathfinder turn ups in four trim levels - XE, SE, SE+ and LE - all of which come with shift-on-the-fly, electronically selected four-wheel drive, with a dash mounted switch operation.

Behind the Wheel

Nissan's newest SUV does not disappoint! Although it is bigger, the long wheelbase calms road harshness while the wider track enables body roll on corners to be kept to the minimum. The suspension engineers have done a great job, given that the Pathfinder now uses ladder-type chassis, rather than the unibody construction of the previous generation. Attention to reducing noise and harshness has resulted in closer body tolerances and some ingenious sound deadening systems. This is so effective that at times even on the rough; there was hardly any outside noise in the cabin

A good transmission can transform a good engine into a great one and the electronically-controlled five-speed box is a dream to use. At no time on our more than 400km route, including an exploration off the beaten track in the hills in a narrow, single vehicle path encompassing some steep climbs with low levels of grip available, did the Pathfinder ever gasp for breath, proving not only the effectiveness of the alternative throttle programming but also its nimbleness in the rough.

While there were no real difficult obstacles to conquer, at one stage climbing a 45-degree incline with limited run-off saw the Pathfinder just sail over with the minimum of fuss - the 9.2-inches of ground clearance helping it in no small measures.

The power from the 4.0-litre V6 is not awe-inspiring but is more than adequate. While this statement may not sound very inspiring, what does is the fact that the V6 delivers more horsepower than many of its competitors.

With the 2006 Pathfinder, Nissan now provides a real alternative for the adventure-oriented, active family. It is a truly capable midsize SUV with a strong engine, 4x4 at the turn of a switch, fresh, mature styling and an accommodating interior.

What more could one ask for?