Used 2010 Nissan Pathfinder

Nissan’s 2010 Pathfinder mid-sized SUV offers room for five, plenty of power for towing and hauling and a progressive design that is both stylish and rugged. While car-based crossover SUVs are growing in popularity, there is still a large segment of the population that wants a sturdy body-on-frame design, which provides a more capable off-road platform and the ability to tow heavy loads. Until recently, Nissan buyers who required the pulling power of a V8 had to move up to the full-size Armada, but the addition of an available V8 engine to the Pathfinder powertrain choices means owners can stick with a modest-sized SUV and still tow up to 7,000 pounds.

We spent time in both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive Pathfinders, including the LE-V8 model, and came away impressed by both our off-road and on-road experiences. In particular, the LE-V8’s XN All-Mode four-wheel drive, which can distribute torque to all four wheels (up to 50 percent to the front wheels when needed), was appreciated during our steeper, more strenuous off-road exploits. Back on the streets, where even major off-road enthusiasts will log most of their miles, the vehicles shifted smoothly, turned confidently and delivered a ride that seemed pleasant enough for even longer road trips.

The big story for the 2010 Pathfinder continues to be its roomy interior, especially as third-row seating has become a requirement of the mid-size category. Like most SUVs in this class, the Pathfinder’s third-row seat is better suited to small children or, for adults, quick jaunts across town. Unlike many, the Pathfinder’s third-row folds completely into the floor, and center and third-row seats fold flat without requiring removal of the head restraints. Combined with the folding front passenger seat, the cabin is able to swallow lengthy cargo, but the Pathfinder’s interior is just as well suited to everyday commutes, and delivers a roomy, comfortable environment.

The Pathfinder’s design features mesh easily with Nissan’s current philosophy in creating a rugged, purposeful exterior befitting the vehicle’s lineage and ability. The bold front end mimics other Nissan models such as the Armada and Frontier, tying in a familial theme. The Pathfinder has grown larger over the years – the latest growth spurt necessary to accommodate its optional V8 engine – but overhangs both front and rear remain appropriately short. The factory roof rack looks rugged, but it might not match the weight ratings or versatility of some aftermarket units.

Folding Three-Row Seating
The Pathfinder converts quickly and easily from seven-passenger troop transport to cavernous cargo hauler.

Bose Audio
With its ten speakers and powerful subwoofer, this system may not literally be able to blow the doors off the Pathfinder, but it sure feels like it.

Noteworthy as standard on all three trim levels are the impressive V6, fold-flat third-row seating, five-speed automatic transmission, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system, front side and side curtain airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system. The LE V6 includes 18-inch alloy wheels, leather-appointed first- and second-row seats with four-way power front passenger seat, heated steering wheel, Bose audio system with 10 speakers and subwoofer, driver’s memory package (seat, mirrors and pedals), heated outside mirrors, automatic on/off headlights, RearView Monitor, auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth phone connectivity and Nissan Intelligent Key. The Pathfinder LE -V8 adds the 5.6-liter V8, XN All-Mode 4×4 system, navigation and special badging.

SE models offer the SE Premium Journey Package which adds automatic on/off headlamps, auto dimming rearview mirror with compass, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, RearView Monitor, roof rack crossbars, Bose audio with six-disc CD changer, XM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth phone connectivity and Nissan
Intelligent Key keyless entry and start. The new LE V8 Value Package offers a DVD player, 7.0-inch color monitor for rear passengers, rear seat wireless headphones and power moonroof. Also available is a HDD Navigation Package with 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive, DVD Mobile Entertainment System (LE only), and power moonroof (standard on LE).

The Pathfinder’s standard 4.0-liter V6, which is a Nissan workhorse, is a powerful and torque-happy engine that’s well-suited to the needs of the average SUV owner. For those who need extra horsepower and towing ability, the optional 5.6-liter V8 is the obvious answer, adding an additional 100 foot-pounds of torque and 44 more horsepower.

4.0-liter V6
266 horsepower @ 5600 rpm
288 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/22 (2WD), 14/20 (4WD)

5.6-liter V8
310 horsepower @ 5200 rpm
388 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 13/18 (4WD)