DESCRIPTION

Pros:

• Off-road skills are the real deal
• Muscular V6 and V8 engines
• Strong towing capability

Cons:

• 2nd and 3rd row seating is compromised for people with long legs
• Almost as thirsty as a Hummer
• Rides like a truck -- bumpy and choppy
• Cargo space is lacking for such a large vehicle

Ruling: The Nissan Pathfinder is a tireless work horse that also offers an good feature set and creature comforts.

The 2011 Nissan Pathfinder SUV is a 7-passenger vehicle utilizing a 266-horsepower, 4.0-liter V6 engine. EPA estimates for the base engine is 15 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.

In addition to the new Silver Edition, the previous SE model has been replaced by the Pathfinder SV. There is also one new exterior paint color for 2011, Espresso Black. The 2011 Nissan Pathfinder is now available in five models: Pathfinder S V6 (4x2 and 4x4), Pathfinder SV V6 (4x2 and 4x4), Pathfinder Silver Edition V6 (4x2 and 4x4), Pathfinder LE V6 (4x2 and 4x4) and Pathfinder LE V8 (4x4 only).

The optional 5.6-liter DOHC V8 engine is rated at 310 horsepower and 388 lb-ft of torque, which helps it to achieve 7,000 lbs of maximum towing capacity (when properly equipped).

All Pathfinders continue to be built on a high-strength, fully boxed, all-steel frame based on the full-size Nissan Armada SUV.

The 2011 Pathfinder features standard three-row seating for seven. A fold-down 3rd row seat, 40/20/40 split separate-folding 2nd row seats with easy one-touch release lever for 3rd row access come standard on all models.

The interior offers a range of amenities, including available leather-appointed seating, heated steering wheel, Nissan Intelligent Key™ with twist start, Nissan Navigation System with 9.3GB Music Box® Hard Drive, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, XM® Satellite Radio and RearView Monitor.

Standard safety features and equipment for the 2011 Pathfinder includes Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), featuring dual-stage front supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors and a front occupant classification sensor; supplemental front seat-mounted side-impact air bags; and roof-mounted supplemental curtain air bags for improved side impact and rollover head protection for outboard occupants in all three rows.