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Nissan’s Pathfinder is a cousin to the new Frontier pickup because both are derived from Nissan’s F-Alpha truck platform. The fully boxed, all-steel ladder frame was designed to be built in different sizes, using different engines. It can accommodate a solid rear axle for trucks and an independent rear axle for SUVs.

The third-generation Pathfinder also returns to its roots with enhanced off-road capabilities and performance driven by the use of a new 4.0-liter version of Nissan’s VQ-series V-6 engine rated at 270 horsepower and 291 pound-feet of torque.

The 2005 Pathfinder comes standard with three-row seating and an automatic transmission and in two-wheel or four-wheel drive. Prices start at $24,650 for a two-wheel-drive XE. The SE is $25,850 and the LE is $32,550. Four-wheel drive begins at $26,650 and tops out at $34,750 for the LE.

It has a 112.2-inch wheelbase for greater roominess, ride comfort and stability, while the 187.6-inch overall length and short front and rear overhangs make it maneuverable around town.

The engine is derived from the 3.5-liter unit used in the Maxima, Altima, Murano and 350Z. It uses variable valve timing, Teflon-coated pistons, aluminum block and a timing chain, rather than a timing belt, for durability. It is tuned for good midrange torque and power. Fuel economy is rated at 15 miles per gallon in the city and 21 on the highway. It has a 6,000-pound tow rating.

Pathfinder’s available advanced All-Mode four-wheel-drive system includes two-wheel, auto and four-wheel modes. It has an electronically controlled transfer case. A Vehicle Dynamic Control, or VDC, system is standard.

An off-road traction system is standard on the SE Off-Road model. Hill Descent Control slows the vehicle on descents without constant application of the brake pedal. Hill Start Assist allows the driver to stop on a slope, release the brake pedal and not roll back for up to two seconds.

The Pathfinder SE’s cabin is functional but plush. The test car’s cloth seats were attractive and should be easy to clean. The cruise control is operated by fingertip controls on the steering wheel. The triple-zone automatic climate system has controls for both front seats as well as the rear seat.

Cup holders are plentiful and the doors have wide storage bins. The center console has handy storage trays for sunglasses and cell phones. Two power outlets are located near the console.

The second- and third-row seats can be folded down into numerous configurations. The 40/20/40 second-row seat has a one-touch release lever for access to the third row. The front passenger seat also folds for hauling something long.

Each side of the split third row can be folded separately. Headrests do not need to be removed to fold either the second- or third-row seats. Legroom in the third seat is tight and best left to kids.

The backside of the third row is finished in hard plastic so it makes a usable cargo floor. A hidden storage area is located under the second seat.

The Pathfinder is assembled at Nissan’s manufacturing facility in Smyrna, Tenn.

Price:

The four-wheel-drive SE is $26,650. The comfort package and floor mats bring the sticker price to $28,710.

Warranty:

Three years or 36,000 miles.

Engine: 4.0-liter, 270-hp V-6

Transmission: Automatic

Four-wheel drive

Wheelbase: 112.2 inches

Curb weight: 4,693 lbs.

Base prices: $26,650

As driven: $28,710

Mpg rating: 15 city, 21 hwy.

At A Glance

Point: The Pathfinder is a truck-based SUV that is capable of off-road work. It has a separate frame, three rows of seats and electronic traction assist. The cargo area is plastic so it can be cleaned easily. The 4.0-liter V-6 is smooth and strong.

Counterpoint: The Pathfinder is truck-based, the third-row seat is small and the fuel mileage isn’t great.