Pathfinder/ Xterra comparison?

A forum for the legendary Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX4.
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iPath
Posts: 78
Joined: Fri Apr 30, 2010 1:20 am
Car: 04 Nissan Pathfinder SE

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What exactly is the comparison between the two, and how do their reputations differ? Let's consider the '04 model, right before they were revamped. Could the Xterra be compared to a Wrangler and the Pathfinder to a Grand Cherokee? Open discussion.


philipa_240sx
Posts: 3808
Joined: Thu Jun 21, 2007 7:30 am
Location: Canada

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Depends...

The Wrangler/TJ is a smaller vehicle both in length, wheelbase, and width. Although it does share a body on frame construction similar to the Xterra. I would almost say the late Jeep Cherokee or the Liberty is a more direct comparison.

The Pathfinder to GC comparison makes more sense. Both are upscale SUV's, uni-body construction, 5 passenger seating, and similar power train.... well except for the Jeep's optional V-8.

I have not driven a mid-sized SUV for quite a few years. Admittedly I am somewhat unfamiliar with their 'reputation'. Perhaps the other 4x4/SUV enthusiasts can comment.

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GRNMACHINE
Posts: 634
Joined: Fri May 08, 2009 6:30 am
Car: 1999.5 Pathfinder SE 4x4

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I would agree with all that. A decent amount of interest and aftermarket offroad in the Xterra. A decent amount of not much offroad for the Path (at least for th R50's). Only test drove an Xterra once, it drove more like a truck. Path sits lower and rides alot smoother. Two totally different models in my opinion. I really dig both of them.

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Adnan
Posts: 384
Joined: Wed Feb 13, 2008 11:15 am
Car: 2001 Pathfinder LE 4WD

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A close friend had a xterra a few years ago and it felt much more "utilitarian" compared to the pathfinder,the interior is basic,no leather or anything.The Pathfinder is much more refined and easier to live with on a daily basis imo,the seating position is near perfect it comes with all the amenities of a comparable midsize SUV yet still capable offroad. I find the xterra a little too much for daily driving,the seats are too firm and low,the cabin is much louder (probably due to the tires and huge roof rack).

I hope this helps,btw I think his truck was a 02 yellow s/c

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iPath
Posts: 78
Joined: Fri Apr 30, 2010 1:20 am
Car: 04 Nissan Pathfinder SE

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Ya I'm just asking because I was originally in the market for an Xterra. Just couldn't find one with the low miles I was hoping for. Not to mention in my town of 300k, believe it or not, there are only about 1-2 listed on craigslist or autotrader at a given time. Just not the selection. So I found my '04 pathy with 47k miles. Couldn't pass it up!

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iPath
Posts: 78
Joined: Fri Apr 30, 2010 1:20 am
Car: 04 Nissan Pathfinder SE

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By the way I am completely happy with my decision :)

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Fisherdude
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Joined: Sun Dec 28, 2008 7:15 pm
Car: 1996 Nissan Pathfinder 4x4 SE
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I have always considered an x-terra as a possible ride for me. How do the aftermarkets compare between the R50 and the X-terra? I have been wondering about greater suspension lifts and the possibility of adding body lifts; with the added benefit of a 3.5L v-6 compared to my 3.3.

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KyooX4
Posts: 652
Joined: Fri May 22, 2009 3:29 pm
Car: 2001 Infiniti QX4 4wd
Location: FL

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There is so much more aftermarket support for Xterras.
It's like Xterra owners have access to whole candy stores, and R50 owners have to put up with the candy in check out lines in grocery stores.

D13_R50
Posts: 61
Joined: Thu Apr 22, 2010 3:55 pm
Car: 2006 Nissan Xterra OR
2004 Nissan Pathfinder LE
1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee

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In terms of aftermarket support, you could compare the Xtrerra to the Wrangler, but like it was said above, its kinda more like the Cherokee. The Grand Cherokee has a bit less aftermarket than the Wrangler but still has a lot more than the Pathfinder. Comparing R50 and GC stock, the R50 has a better ride for normal driving and has the better 6 cylinder engine.


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