Nissan North America, Inc. announced pricing on the 2008 Pathfinder, which goes on sale today at Nissan dealers nationwide. For the first time ever, Pathfinder is available with a 5.6-iter V8 engine, offering an additional 44 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque over the standard 4.0-liter V6 for greater towing capacity. Other major enhancements for 2008 include a restyled exterior and interior, and a range of available technology features such as RearView Monitor, Intelligent Key and Bluetooth hands-free phone system.
The 2008 Pathfinder is offered in six trim levels, each equipped with a standard 5-speed automatic transmission. Pricing starts at a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $25,700 for the Pathfinder 4x2 S V6 and $27,700 for the Pathfinder 4x4 S V6. Pricing for the new V8 models starts at $30,600 for the Pathfinder 4x2 SE V8 and $32,850 for the Pathfinder 4x4 SE V8. The Pathfinder SE Off Road model, available in 4-wheel drive V6 only, is $33,900.
"Pathfinder's new Endurance 5.6-liter engine, which it shares with Nissan's full-sized Titan pickup and Armada SUV, is rated at 310 horsepower and 388 lb-ft of torque - making it the most powerful V8 in its class* - and providing the towing capacity and rugged performance of a full-size SUV in a mid-size SUV package," said Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. "V8s now account for 30 percent of mid-size SUV sales, so we expect the new Pathfinder V8 to find a highly receptive audience."
The 2008 Pathfinder's exterior features new front and rear fascias that maintain the rugged yet sophisticated look that has always distinguished Pathfinder, a restyled grille and hood (with changes to accommodate the V8 engine), new chrome appliqu for body side moldings (LE only), restyled 17-inch wheels (SE V6 and LE V6 models) and new 18-inch wheels for V8 models, a RearView camera (SE & LE only) and a new rear lift gate with power cinch feature.
Inside, Pathfinder receives a host of newly available amenities and technologies, including a new meter cluster appearance, new instrument panel-mounted 7-inch color monitor with RearView Monitor (standard on all grades except S), an available Nissan Navigation System with a 9.3-gigabyte Music Box hard drive for mp3 storage, new cup holder area design and revised upper door trim.
The volume-leading SE trim also adds the previous model year's Comfort Package option equipment as standard, making the SE a highly equipped trim level and a better value. Intelligent Key with twist start is now available, as is a Bluetooth hands-free phone system.
"Pathfinder's always strong price value has increased substantially for 2008 with the new exterior design, the new refined interior and the long list of standard and available features and technology," said Bosley. "Pathfinder continues to offer a unique balance of rugged performance and passenger comfort - authentic yet just a little bit indulgent."
Other available interior features include an available DVD entertainment system, an upgraded Bose audio system, power-adjustable driver's and front passenger's seats with driver memory package, dual-zone automatic temperature control, rear air conditioning, power-adjustable pedals, leather-appointed 1st and 2nd row seats, power sunroof, HomeLink Universal Transceiver, first aid kit and wood grain trim. All 2008 Pathfinders utilize the rugged "F-Alpha" platform used on the Titan and Armada. Standard on the 2008 Pathfinder S-V6, SE-V6, SE-V6 Off Road and LE-V6 models is an advanced 4.0-liter DOHC V6, rated at 266 horsepower and 288 lb-ft torque.
This specially tuned engine, created for SUV and truck applications, is part of Nissan's 13-time Ward's "Ten Best Engines" award-winning VQ engine series found in the 350Z, Maxima, Altima, Murano and Quest.
The new 5.6-liter DOHC 32-valve V8 engine produces 310 horsepower and 388 lb-ft of torque, giving Pathfinder a maximum towing capacity of 7,000 pounds, versus V6-equipped Pathfinders' 6,000-pound rating.
The V8 engine package is offered in two new Pathfinder models, SE-V8 and LE-V8, both available in 4x2 and 4x4 drive configurations.
CLICK HERE for full pricing list.