new nissan pathfinder t/d

Hi Darryl,

After much anticipation from website review, etc past couple of months I had a close look at these ~ 3W ago. I currently have a Patrol which I intend to replace at the end of the year. The Pathfinder size (bigger than current and not too much smaller Patrol), 7 seat capability and new common rail t/d were the draw cards for me.

There'll be heaps who dismiss this vehicle without a look but I think it isn't too bad. I haven't taken one for a drive yet (still time before I get serious about the change over) but took a close look at features. We do some offroad with 4WD club but really my interest is longer distance touring and dragging the camper trailer for family holidays. My mate has a Pajero DiD who gets every where we go so I expect the Pathy will do the same. Now I'm not saying the Pathy is going to be as capable offroad as Patrol but likely OK for what we do.

The interior had a fair bit of plastic but most do these days. Feaures quite functional and bit more creature comforts than Patrol. Need to take one for a drive to assess front seats - some say too narrow w/out support.

Things I was surprised with however were:
1) No room in engine bay for 2nd battery (t/d or petrol v6)
2) No bash plate/stone guard to protect plastic fuel tank. I figure the plastic tank is going to be tough but no guards surprised, especially when it is quite low. The new Disco has plastic tank but it at least has guards.

After being sure I'd buy one, I think another Patrol is still an option (especially given the goodies can be swapped over).

Hi Darryl,

I waited for the pathfinder to come out, and after a test drive and a check of the towing specs ended up ordering a patrol auto. The problem for me was that the new diesel pathfinder when loaded to GVM was only allowed 50kg down weight on the ball. We tow a camper and carry a bit of gear so the patrol's towing capability was better suited to our needs whilst remain legal.

The biggest concern for me with the Pathie is that made in Spain sticker .

Take a wide berth !!!!

I decided to take one for a test drive and couldn't - reason - no headroom.

I am only 189 cms tall.

Buy one if you are only going to carry children or dwarfs.

I'll stick with my patrol.

I was surprised to hear about the lack of head room , as I'm 6ft 5in and except for the sunroof taking some room(delete it from the option list) I thought the headroom was acceptable. Can't afford one(just bought a KK camper) but if I was in the market for a new 4x4 it looks very appealing

Had a look underneath one the other day, and was put off immediately by the tiny front springs and complex looking suspension.

When I looked under the back and saw two wheel alignment adjusters (there could have been more) I dismissed the vehicle as a possible purchase.

Who the hell wants tiny coils and a fourby that requires front and rear wheel alignment??

Roll on the H3.....

Gerhard