1996 Nissan Pathfinder Review (continued)
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Driving Impressions

Today's sport-utes have to be versatile, bred as they are for sedate motoring about town and/or braving the wilds. The difference between them comes down to styling, power and ride quality. Particularly ride quality, and specifically ride quality over everyday surfaces, because that's where sport-utes actually spend their lives. Only 5 percent or so ever leave the pavement.

We give our Pathfinder very high marks for its everyday ride. It's very car-like, thanks to the new front suspension, longer wheelbase and more rigid body shell. No pitching over undulating pavement, no jarring crashes in and out of potholes, no constant jiggle down the interstate. And, as promised, it's quiet in there.

Acceleration from stop is good, the V6 smooth and quiet. The automatic shifts smoothly, and the 5-speed manual transmission has a very positive engagement feel as it goes from gear to gear. The steering is nicely assisted, and quick, lending a sporty feel to the driving experience.

The step-up, for climbing in, is moderate, and a running board or step rail is standard on some versions. Persons of small stature should have no trouble being quite comfortable with a Pathfinder on a daily basis.