C&D.com: Nissan Pathfinder

[Ry]

C&D.com: Nissan Pathfinder
Taking the path back to 1987.

When Nissan introduced the Pathfinder for the 1987 model year, it was an immediate success. Competing with the likes of the Chevy S-10 Blazer, Jeep Cherokee, and Toyota 4Runner, the Pathfinder possessed that rare combination of stylish, rugged looks and venerable on- and off-road capabilities. In other words, it had the right stuff—a truck platform, part-time four-wheel drive, available 31-inch tires, and a 3.0-liter V-6—all for about $20,000. Moreover, considering the original featured the widest cargo area in its class, a fashionable three-door design with triangular windows, and a surprisingly car-like ride, it's no wonder it was such a hit.

That success followed the mid-size Pathfinder through the millennium—Nissan sold 68,533 of them in 2000—but since that time, sales have declined, despite the transplant of a 3.5-liter V-6 for '01. In fact, '03 sales of 35,511 slid almost 22,000 units compared with the previous year, far behind those of competitors such as the 4Runner (109,308) and Honda Pilot (106,917). The culprit is competition, of course—mid-size SUVs are roomier, more powerful, and more refined these days, not to mention as plentiful as low-carb candy bars. And age certainly plays a factor—the second-generation Pathfinder is on the final leg of an eight-year tour. Even Macaulay Culkin couldn't stay home alone for that long.

[tnewga]

I think the redesign Path will do okay, but Nissan took too long to do the redesign. Explorer, 4Runner, & others did their redesigns two years or so ago, so Nissan better hope the loyalty of Pathfinder owners & people looking to get back to a Path will do okay for sales. Also the addition of a 3rd row will have more buyers looking at the Path.

Price points for the Path will also help sales XE starts at $24,650, SE starts at $25,850, SE Off-Road starts at $28,450 & LE starts at $32,550, all very competitive with other vehicles in this class.