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Introduction
Nissan Pathfinder - 2008 Review: Like the high school track star who bulks up to play running back, Nissan took the Pathfinder to the weight room and added a V-8 engine. Just like the track star turned running back, the mid-size SUV is healthier on the inside, a little tougher looking and stronger than before. For Nissan, the V-8 is a competitive thing, but its value for the buyer is primarily towing capacity. An additional 1,000-pound's worth. Much-needed improvements grace the interior of the 2008 model, while the exterior retains the brand's aggressive light-truck styling. With the V-8 and third-row seating, Nissan keeps the Pathfinder competitive in the rough-and-tumble game called mid-sized SUV.
What We Drove
We drove a Nissan Pathfinder SE with the 5.6 liter V-8 engine, five-speed automatic transmission and all-mode four-wheel drive, which starts at $33,555 including a $705 destination charge. Among the standard features, rear-view monitor, dual zone climate control, and stability control. Option packages included the SE Premium package with moonroof, automatic headlights, and 10-speaker Bose audio system; Airbag package, which adds side impact and side curtain units; and SE Leather package, which covers the front and second rows with hide, adds heaters to the front seats and outside mirrors, and adds power to the four-way front passenger seat. Those options brought the total to $38,260.
Performance
This is the first time a V-8 has been offered in the Pathfinder. At times there's no replacement for displacement, like when you need torque. With 388 lb.-ft. of torque, the 5.6 liter V-8 offers plenty of grunt, enough to bring the towing capacity to 7,000 pounds. Power comes on early and delivery is smooth all the way to redline. The five-speed automatic transmission's gear ratios seem too close together for towing, but it's smooth and never went hunting for a gear. Manual mode lets the driver select the right gear for the job.
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