Nissan Pathfinder

For the model marketed as Nissan Terrano II in Europe, see Nissan Mistral.

The Nissan Pathfinder and Terrano were originally compact SUVs and they are now mid-size SUVs. Where as the Pathfinder is sold in North America, the name first introduced in late 1986, elsewhere in the world the vehicle was known as the Terrano. The first generation Pathfinder/Terrano platform is known as the WD21. The second generation Pathfinder platform is known as the R50, and the third generation is known as the R51. The Pathfinder is slotted in size between the Murano and Armada or Patrol, but in price between the Xterra and Murano.

First generation (1986.5-1995)

The North American first generation Pathfinder came in two different bodies, and shared styling and most components with the Nissan Hardbody Truck. In the US from 1986.5 to 1989 Pathfinders came in a two door body. In early 1990 it became a four door in the United States. Some US 1990 Pathfinder's came with the two door body, but they are rare. The 2-door version was available in Canada until 1992. From 86.5 to 1989 Pathfinders were available with either the Nissan VG30I V6 (145hp (108kW), 180lb·ft (244N·m) torque), or the Z24(106hp (79kW)) I4. In 1990 the V6 received an upgrade from throttle body injection to a multi point fuel injection system. This engine was known as the VG30E, and was rated at 153hp (114kW) and 180lb·ft (244N·m) torque. Also in 1990, the Z24 was replaced with the KA24E. The first generation continued until 1995. This generation also came out in the 2.7l I4 Diesel Engine known as the TD27 with the option of a turbocharger to increase the power rating.

The first generation pathfinders are (in salted road locales) notorious for the frame above and behind the rear wheels rusting away and killing such a fine vehicle.

Facelifts

A facelift occurred in 1990 when the 4-door model arrived. When the 2-door model disappeared from Canada in 1992, the Pathfinder was sold only as a 4-door in 1993, and the bumper got a minor facelift that time.