2004 NISSAN PATHFINDER

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The Nissan Pathfinder Heritage Continues In 2004 LE Platinum Edition Model Added

With its unique combination of ruggedness and sophistication, the popular Pathfinder continues to be a mainstay in the premium SUV segment. Pathfinder's smooth ride, responsive handling and on- and off-road dexterity offer an exceptional level of performance and comfort.

In 2004, Pathfinder increases its impact with the addition of a new model - all LE models become Platinum Edition. The Platinum Edition features an available, exclusive platinum exterior color, special edition badges, body color door handles, electroluminescent gauges, platinum-color wheels, aluminum kick plate with Pathfinder logo and special dark wood-toned trim. Other enhancements for 2004 include the addition of three new exterior colors ' Canteen, Luminous Gold and Platinum (LE only).

The 2004 Pathfinder carries over its standard 240-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine and the popular Vehicle Dynamic Control Package, which includes Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System and Tire Pressure Monitor System.

'With the new available Platinum Edition, its proven performance, and numerous interior amenities, the Nissan Pathfinder continues to make its presence felt in the middle size sport utility market,' said Mark McNabb, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division.

A Powerful Engine Matched with a Rugged Suspension

The 2004 Pathfinder is again powered by the 3.5-liter VQ35DE DOHC 24-valve V6. Rated at 240 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque and mated to a standard 4-speed automatic transmission, Pathfinder has ample horsepower and low-end torque for both on- and off-road excursions.

The engine is based on the Nissan VQ engine series named as one of Ward's Auto World's '10 Best Engines' for nine consecutive years. The Pathfinder V6 is designed and tuned specifically for SUV applications, with an emphasis on low to mid-speed torque needed for off-road use and transporting recreational equipment.

Among the many advanced systems utilized in Pathfinder's engine are NVTCS (Nissan Valve Timing Control System), NVIS (Nissan Variable Induction System), a lightweight piston design and an aluminum-alloy block. In addition, double platinum-tipped spark plugs provide 100,000-mile service intervals, while a resin engine cover provides a clean engine compartment appearance.

Pathfinder is available with a standard 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with overdrive, featuring Nissan's NEW DUETTE (New Development Unity Engine Transmission Total Engineering) control system for seamless shifting.

Four-wheel drive Pathfinders feature a shift-on-the-fly transfer case (SE), which can be engaged at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour. Four-wheel drive LE Pathfinders come standard with the advanced push-button All-Mode 4WD system.

The All-Mode system utilizes a wet multi-plate clutch design managed by a computerized electronic control unit, which allows up to 50 percent of available torque (infinitely adjustable) to reach the front wheels on demand.

For 2004, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control is optionally available with all models as part of the Dynamic Control Package, which also comes with a Tire Pressure Monitor System.

Pathfinder continues to utilize a proven 5-link rear suspension design with coil springs and stabilizer bar with an optimized shock absorber layout for ride and handling control. The front suspension features independent struts with coil springs.

Pathfinder's unique MonoFrame construction provides a smooth, comfortable on-road ride while offering outstanding off-road capabilities. The MonoFrame design combines the body, floor and frame into a single, rigid structure (as opposed to separate pieces bolted together), reducing stress throughout the body and minimizing squeaks and rattles.

All 2004 Pathfinders feature power-assisted brakes and standard 4-wheel/4-sensor/3-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), with Nissan's unique G-sensor system (4x4 only), which 'reads' the driving surface and adjusts braking control accordingly. Standard power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering helps ensure maximum maneuverability and a tight turning radius.

A Confident Exterior With a Classy Interior

For 2004, the Nissan Pathfinder maintains its smooth bodyline and high hood, giving it an assertive, yet refined style. A titanium-colored grille and body-color bumpers and fender flares give the Pathfinder a smooth front view. For the side view, integrated fender flares, splash guards and titanium-colored tubular step rails (SE) or titanium-colored running boards (LE) provide a traditional rugged SUV appearance.

Finishing off the Pathfinder's contemporary exterior is the stylish tailgate and 16-inch 6-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels on SE or standard 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels on LE.

Although suitable for rugged use, the interior has a luxurious appearance with an integrated, clean design that gives a high-utility and spacious feel. An impressive Bose audio system with AM/FM/cassette/6-disc in-dash CD changer and steering wheel audio controls comes standard on LE models and is available on SE models.

Other luxury features include perforated leather seats with dark wood-tone accents for LE models and sporty waffle pattern cloth seats with titanium-color accents for SE models. The LE Model features an 8-way power adjustable front driver's seat and a 4-way power adjustable front passenger's seat (optional on SE).

A standard 60/40 spilt fold-down rear seat is followed by a large cargo area with several hidden storage bins. There are also large front and rear door pockets, a passenger seat back pocket and a dual-level center armrest storage bin.

Safety and Security

Standard safety equipment for the 2004 Pathfinder includes a 3-point ALR/ELR seat belt system for rear outboard positions and front passenger seat (ELR for driver), front seat belts with pretentioners, load limiters and upper adjustable seatbelt anchors, dual-stage front supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors, child safety rear door locks, and the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat anchor system. Front-seat side-impact supplemental air bags and curtain side-impact supplemental air bags are standard on LE and optional on SE Leather Package.

Passive safety features include an energy-absorbing steering column, front and rear crumple zones and pipe-style steel side-door guard beams. Security features include a Vehicle Security System with Immobilizer and remote keyless entry.

Model Availability

Two models are available for the 2004 Pathfinder the sporty, tough SE and the all-new, well-equipped Platinum Edition LE. Both models are offered in a 4x2 or 4x4 drive configurations.

Packages for the 2004 Pathfinder include the SE Popular Package, SE Sunroof Package (sunroof standard on LE) and SE Leather Package. Also available are the Mobile Entertainment System, which includes a DVD player and a roof mounted 6.4-inch LCD screen and the Dynamic Control Package, which includes Vehicle Dynamic Control and the Tire Pressure Monitor System.

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