Introduction
Automakers over the past few years have been transforming their old school truck based SUVs. The 2014 Nissan Pathfinder is the latest example and has been emerged much better. Though this sedan lost its forerunner towing abilities and off-road in transition, the buyers majority will consider the large crossover SUV of Nissan more useful in consequence. The latest Pathfinder achieved an open and new interior with seating of adult on second and third rows both, with superior handling and ride qualities that are suited better for shopping trips and carpool duty.
Body
For power, the current Nissan Pathfinder also uses a 3.5-liter V6 and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that drives either the front wheels or, on all-wheel-drive models, all four. The CVT helps the 2014 Pathfinder achieve EPA fuel economy estimates of 20 mpg city/26 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined for front-wheel-drive models and 21 combined with all-wheel drive. While those numbers might not sound spectacular on their own, in context they make this Pathfinder among the most fuel-efficient seven-seat crossovers on the road.
With the 2014 Nissan Pathfinder’s strong points, there are a few other midsize-to-large three-row crossovers worth considering. Among the dozen or so entries in this category, we’d recommend looking at the 2014 GMC Acadia if maximum interior room is a priority, while the Mazda CX-9 also offers a bit more room than the Nissan, along with the best ride and handling dynamics of any large crossover SUV. The Dodge Durango and 2014 Ford Flex, meanwhile, are better picks if you’re after superior engine performance and, in the case of the Flex, truly distinctive exterior style. Any of these utility vehicles will work if you need three rows of seating, but with the Pathfinder’s strengths in interior design, fuel economy and general ease of use, it’s a solid pick for families.
