Spy Shots: Nissan Pathfinder prepares to cross over
12-10-11, 11:21 AM
#16
Lexus Fanatic
Yes, the 2Gen models were unibody, but, like you stated, also had a live axle because the 4WD versions also had an off-road transfer-case and low-range. I remember test-driving a 2Gen Pathfinder, though, and was surprised at how smooth it rode by SUV standards (and, of course, from my reviews and comments, you guys know I'm often critical of a stiffly-riding chassis and tires). Nissan apparantly used rather soft springs to get that smooth ride. Granted, I didn't test-drive a QX-4 like your parents had, but I don't see any reason why it would ride any stiffer then the Nissan version. Did your parents keep the tires inflated to the proper PSI? Too much air in the tires can definitely stiffen the ride.
One big difference between the 2Gen Pathfinder and its QX-4 cousin (besides the QX-4's plusher interior and better sound-insulation) was that the Pathfinder had only an El Cheapo part-time 4WD system, lacking a center-differential, that could not be used on dry pavement or just set-and-forget. The QX-4, IMO, did it the right way.....it had a selectable RWD/full-time AWD system with a center-differential, and you never had to worry about what kind of surface you were on or turning it on and off. Both systems, though, included a low-range transfer-case for true off-roading. Later Pathfinders finally got the QX-4's center differential and full-time selectable system as an option, but, IMO, should have gotten it from the start.....I pointed that out to the Nissan people several times at auto shows.
One big difference between the 2Gen Pathfinder and its QX-4 cousin (besides the QX-4's plusher interior and better sound-insulation) was that the Pathfinder had only an El Cheapo part-time 4WD system, lacking a center-differential, that could not be used on dry pavement or just set-and-forget. The QX-4, IMO, did it the right way.....it had a selectable RWD/full-time AWD system with a center-differential, and you never had to worry about what kind of surface you were on or turning it on and off. Both systems, though, included a low-range transfer-case for true off-roading. Later Pathfinders finally got the QX-4's center differential and full-time selectable system as an option, but, IMO, should have gotten it from the start.....I pointed that out to the Nissan people several times at auto shows.
Not everyone wants the added cost of multi-mode 4WD.
I am glad Toyota still gives a part time vs full time option on their 4Runner SUVs. When we bought out LX years back, we weren't too thrilled that it was full time 4WD.
And just an FYI for others, the auto 4WD was available on the Pathfinder LE model which was top level in trim.
12-10-11, 11:42 AM
#17
Lexus Test Driver
^was gonna mention that was well. The LE got the auto 4wd while the SE like ours had that lever to the left of the shifter. Was in a LE pathfinder and honestly didnt see too much of a difference from the qx minus the bright cluster (forgot the name of that style of lighting) and the analog clock.
12-10-11, 02:04 PM
#18
Lexus Fanatic
^was gonna mention that was well. The LE got the auto 4wd while the SE like ours had that lever to the left of the shifter. Was in a LE pathfinder and honestly didnt see too much of a difference from the qx minus the bright cluster (forgot the name of that style of lighting) and the analog clock.
If you compare the new LX to the old LX470, the 4LO switch is now electronic on the 570.
Why a part time 4WD system in our old LX would of been superior is that we would not have to have an electronic push button center differential lock.
So multi-mode has two electronoc switches, one switch for 2WD/A4WD and one switch to lock the center diff.
I have to give Toyota credit where it is due. The new 4Runner Trail Rated has a good old fashioned mechanical lever that switches the transfer case from 2WD, 4HI, neutral, and 4LO. There is no electronical dial or switch to change it and no push button switch for the center diff lock.
In contrast, the new 4Runner Limited has an electronic dial switch to change 2WD, AWD, and 4LO. The Limited also has a electronic button that needs to be pressed for the center diff to be engaged. If you are a serious wheeler, the mechanical lever is the method you want to go. The last thing you need is for a fuse or something with the electronic dial to go wrong, get stuck, or fail when you need the center diff locked or 4LO engaged.
12-10-11, 02:45 PM
#19
Yes, the 2Gen models were unibody, but, like you stated, also had a live axle because the 4WD versions also had an off-road transfer-case and low-range. I remember test-driving a 2Gen Pathfinder, though, and was surprised at how smooth it rode by SUV standards (and, of course, from my reviews and comments, you guys know I'm often critical of a stiffly-riding chassis and tires).
12-10-11, 04:26 PM
#20
i believe the 01-03 qx4's were much more refined then their 96-00 counterparts, but that being said i have driven both a 99 4runner with 45k miles and a 02 qx4 with 70k miles and i felt the 4runner drove much better and seemed a bit more stable footed.
12-10-11, 08:56 PM
#21
Lexus Fanatic
There is not much if any difference in the suspension setup between the QX4 and the 4Runner you mention.
12-10-11, 10:10 PM
#22
Lexus Fanatic
. Normally, Pathfinders of that vintage, with proper PSI, were noticeably smoother than 4Runners. However, the XTerra, which was a cousin to the body-on-frame 3Gen Pathfinders, WAS stiff....big-time. XTerras, under some conditions, felt like they had no springs or shocks at all. 
12-11-11, 05:19 AM
#23
Lexus Test Driver
The 96-00 felt very sluggish as well. When the VQ35 came into play in 01 it definately felt alot better to drive.
12-11-11, 08:10 AM
#24
You still have Rav4 and Highlander in Toyota lineup... we will probably get one smaller SUV in the future as well.
4Runner can stay where it is. Plenty of demand worldwide for its platform.
12-11-11, 08:12 AM
#25
That lever that you see next to the shifter is why purists like my husband and I would prefer a part time 4WD set-up against a multi mode set up. Yes our LX was full-time 4WD, however switching from 4WD to 4LO was done with mechanical lever that was physically attached to the transfer case.
If you compare the new LX to the old LX470, the 4LO switch is now electronic on the 570.
Why a part time 4WD system in our old LX would of been superior is that we would not have to have an electronic push button center differential lock.
So multi-mode has two electronoc switches, one switch for 2WD/A4WD and one switch to lock the center diff.
I have to give Toyota credit where it is due. The new 4Runner Trail Rated has a good old fashioned mechanical lever that switches the transfer case from 2WD, 4HI, neutral, and 4LO. There is no electronical dial or switch to change it and no push button switch for the center diff lock.
In contrast, the new 4Runner Limited has an electronic dial switch to change 2WD, AWD, and 4LO. The Limited also has a electronic button that needs to be pressed for the center diff to be engaged. If you are a serious wheeler, the mechanical lever is the method you want to go. The last thing you need is for a fuse or something with the electronic dial to go wrong, get stuck, or fail when you need the center diff locked or 4LO engaged.
If you compare the new LX to the old LX470, the 4LO switch is now electronic on the 570.
Why a part time 4WD system in our old LX would of been superior is that we would not have to have an electronic push button center differential lock.
So multi-mode has two electronoc switches, one switch for 2WD/A4WD and one switch to lock the center diff.
I have to give Toyota credit where it is due. The new 4Runner Trail Rated has a good old fashioned mechanical lever that switches the transfer case from 2WD, 4HI, neutral, and 4LO. There is no electronical dial or switch to change it and no push button switch for the center diff lock.
In contrast, the new 4Runner Limited has an electronic dial switch to change 2WD, AWD, and 4LO. The Limited also has a electronic button that needs to be pressed for the center diff to be engaged. If you are a serious wheeler, the mechanical lever is the method you want to go. The last thing you need is for a fuse or something with the electronic dial to go wrong, get stuck, or fail when you need the center diff locked or 4LO engaged.
12-11-11, 08:14 AM
#26
Lexus Fanatic
I agree, the 4Runner is not going anywhere. If anything, Toyota will make more money on then as they will be in higher demand than before.
12-11-11, 09:08 AM
#27
a good point was brought up about its platform being utilized in many other parts of the world...The Prado is popular all over.
12-11-11, 09:18 AM
#28
Lexus Fanatic
I hope so as well. They have less competition than ever in this shrinking portion of the auto industry. I just do not want to see Toyota give in or become too complacent with the 4runner. My wish list is the 4.6L V8 and 6 spd tranny for the mid cycle refresh
a good point was brought up about its platform being utilized in many other parts of the world...The Prado is popular all over.
a good point was brought up about its platform being utilized in many other parts of the world...The Prado is popular all over.
I agree a 6 speed would be great in the 4Runner and an old fashioned clamshell tailgate like LX would be perfect.
We are look at the 4Runner and the Tacoma as our new 4WD model. We have not made up our mind but we love the interior design of the 4Runner and we are seriously considering the Trail Model.
It would be the perfect fit for us but a crew Tacoma with a short bed would be good as well.
12-19-11, 01:18 PM
#30
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2013 Nissan Pathfinder Teaser
http://www.insideline.com/nissan/pat...auto-show.html
http://www.insideline.com/nissan/pat...auto-show.html
Just the Facts:
-The traditionally boxy Nissan Pathfinder is about to be replaced in model year 2013 by a much curvier model.
-The 2013 Pathfinder will be previewed as a concept at the Detroit auto show.
-The new Pathfinder goes on sale next fall.
-The traditionally boxy Nissan Pathfinder is about to be replaced in model year 2013 by a much curvier model.
-The 2013 Pathfinder will be previewed as a concept at the Detroit auto show.
-The new Pathfinder goes on sale next fall.