Nissan designed the Pathfinder to look like an SUV, not a truck or high-riding station wagon. Rounded corners and attractive proportions between body and greenhouse serve the Pathfinder well, as do curved roof pillars. Horizontal body creases emphasize length. The rear door handles are camouflaged in the C-pillars, giving it the sporty look of a two-door. All elements of the Pathfinder's exterior design are clean, efficient and attractive.Three trim levels comprise the Pathfinder lineup: XE, SE and LE. The SE and LE carry more bright trim than most passenger cars; grilles, bumper tops and running boards are plated or polished. These pieces on XE models are black, creating an immediately apparent distinction between the trim levels. Up-level versions ride on alloy wheels, while the XE's uses chrome-plated steel rims. Pathfinder XE and LE trim levels are offered as rear- or four-wheel-drive models. The SE comes standard with four-wheel drive. Nissan's four-wheel-drive system is a part-time unit -- the driver shifts between two- and four-wheel drive. Shift-on-the-fly capability allows the driver to do this while the Pathfinder is in motion. Pathfinders run the gamut from basic to fully loaded. Basic is a relative term, though, as all have a V6 engine, ABS, air conditioning, AM/FM/cassette stereo system (a CD player comes with LE and SE models) and a rear washer/wiper as standard equipment. The loaded LE comes with power windows/mirrors/door locks, leather seats and other convenience features. The other two models offer some of these features as options. Ordering these extras is easy. Most of the desirable add-ons can be grouped in packages. A Convenience Package brings the XE within shouting distance of the LE, a Sport Package adds trim--and a limited-slip rear differential for 4x4 models. The SE can be ordered with leather upholstery and/or a sunroof. The LE offers an optional package that includes a sunroof and power front seats. Price may be an issue for some buyers. Over time, the tab for a well-equipped Pathfinder has crept upward, to the point where a heavy dose of extras push the Nissan past the Explorer/Blazer level. Four-wheel drive models start at $26,149, and it is possible to spend upwards of $30,000 for a cushy 2WD version. The maximum tab for a Pathfinder hovers at $35,000.
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