Nissan Pathfinder 2.5dCi Review

The Pathfinder is genuinely capable in the rough. The cabin offers seven-seat versatility and its prices significantly undercut those of key rivals. However, it drives like an old-fashioned 4x4 and the automatic gearbox isn’t smooth enough. The rear seats are only big enough for children and it is not as desirable as a Discovery or XC90

Performance
2 out of 5 stars
There’s only one engine - a 171bhp 2.5 turbodiesel. Power is merely adequate, but a six-speed manual gearbox allows the driver to make the most of that. The optional auto, however, hampers progress.

Ride & Handling
2 out of 5 stars
A switchable four-wheel-drive system, low-ratio transfer box and separate chassis give it genuine off-road ability. However, it’s only competent on the road. Body lean and slow-witted steering betray its size through corners. The ride soaks up smaller bumps but coarse surfaces are felt via the cabin.

Refinement
3 out of 5 stars
The 2.5 diesel engine has a rough edge at higher revs and the optional auto gearbox is reluctant to change up. The six-speed manual is quieter on the motorway. Wind and road noise are not intrusive.

Buying & Owning
3 out of 5 stars
The Pathfinder undercuts many of its key rivals on price, however residual values are not likely to be as strong as those of the Land Rover Discovery or Volvo XC90. As with any big 4x4, running costs are high. Average fuel economy is little more than 30mpg for the manual diesel and less than 30mpg for the automatic.

Quality & Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Not all buyers will use their Pathfinder as a rugged, go-anywhere workhorse but those that do are likely to find that it stands up well to hard use. Cabin materials aren’t as appealing as those of premium-badge rivals but everything feels built to last. Nissan’s 4x4s are renowned for their hardiness.

Safety & Security
4 out of 5 stars
A stability control system lessens the risk of a mid-corner slide. There are twin front and side airbags and curtain ’bags extend the length of the cabin. The front head restraints move to counteract whiplash in a rear-end collision.

Behind The Wheel
3 out of 5 stars
All Pathfinders have a driver’s seat that adjusts for height, although it’s easier to fine-tune the driving position with the electric seat adjustment of higher-spec cars. The steering wheel adjusts for height but not reach. All-round visibility is fine but only higher-spec cars have a rear-view reversing camera. The dash layout is straightforward.

Space & Practicality
3 out of 5 stars
There’s plenty of headroom and legroom for five adults. However, some rivals offer more space, and rear passengers may find foot space restricted. Most versions have a pair of folding rear seats in the third row, which make it a seven-seater, but these are really only big enough for children. Fold them into the floor and you’re left with a huge boot. A split rear hatch offers added practicality.

Equipment
4 out of 5 stars
There are three trims - Trek, Sport and Aventura. Trek comes in five-seater form only, but you still get 17-inch alloys, electric door mirrors and climate control. Our pick is Sport because you get desirables such as seven seats, roof rails, driver's seat lumbar and height adjustment and a CD changer. Top trim Aventura is loaded with kit, but comes at a price.

Diesel Estates & MPVs - Further Information

If you require any further information or would like some assistance with deciding upon which diesel Estate or MPV would best be suited to you or your business then please contact us at sales@denburydiesels.co.uk