Ahead of its time: Looking back at the origins
of Nissan’s instantly recognizable SUV
Revealed in August 1986, the Nissan Pathfinder – called Terrano
in the Japanese market – was developed with a bold goal in mind. As
written in the original press release, “vigorous efforts were made
to create the characteristics of a passenger car in an off-road 4WD
model.”
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Revealed in August 1986, the Nissan
Pathfinder – called Terrano in the Japanese market – was developed
with a bold goal in mind. As written in the original press release,
“vigorous efforts were made to create the characteristics of a
passenger car in an off-road 4WD model.” Today, SUVs and crossovers
dominate the new-car market. Yet nearly 38 years ago, Pathfinder’s
ambition to conquer both city streets and remote trails was a
provocative demonstration of the brand’s efforts to thrill and
innovate. (Photo: Business Wire)
Today, SUVs and crossovers dominate the new-car market. Yet
nearly 38 years ago, Pathfinder’s ambition to conquer both city
streets and remote trails was a provocative demonstration of the
brand’s efforts to thrill and innovate.
Like the iconic Hardbody pickup truck and many other legendary
Nissan models, the original Pathfinder was designed in California
by Nissan Design International, Inc. (now known as Nissan Design
America).
In fact, the first Pathfinder shared many of its mechanical
components with the Hardbody and its “D21” mechanical platform. The
model pictured here has a 3.0-liter V6 engine and part-time
four-wheel drive. Underneath the surface, double-wishbone front and
multi-link rear suspension contributed to capable performance on
almost any surface.
A warm welcome
After its introduction to the U.S., the original Pathfinder
quickly racked up positive reviews from the press and consumers
alike, particularly for its off-road prowess; it was named “4x4 of
the Year” by 4 Wheel & Off-Road Magazine and “Four Wheeler of
the Year” by Four Wheeler Magazine in 1987.
Of course, the new model also impressed on the asphalt. The
November 1986 issue of Car and Driver concluded, “The Pathfinder
really does ride almost as smoothly and quietly as a normal
passenger car on paved roads and seems to set a new standard for
comfort and civility on unpaved ones,” adding that, “Its interior
is very carlike and exceptionally roomy both front and rear.” In a
time when most SUVs were more utilitarian, those were high
compliments.
Timeless design
The shape of the first Pathfinder resonates strongly with car
enthusiasts and designers alike, making well-preserved versions a
hot commodity for collectors.
Hiren Patel, senior manager, Nissan exterior design, recalled
spotting the original Pathfinder on the road when he was growing
up: “All the cool kids had them, and over time I began to
appreciate them for their design a lot more.” Today, he has one of
his own: a 1988 SE-V6 model with a four-speed automatic
transmission.
“For me, the stance and balance of the first-generation
Pathfinder are still great,” he said. “The family SUV segment was
just starting in the 1980s and many products were just a cap thrown
onto a truck; they looked purely functional. Pathfinder was unique
because it felt wholly integrated and offered an elevated design
sensibility in its segment.”
Unforgettable design elements include the angled side windows
and unique wheel designs (also seen on Hardbody). Today’s
Pathfinder incorporates subtle references to design elements like
the three slots above the original model’s grille.
Path found: a five-generation heritage
The Pathfinder remains a core part of the Nissan lineup, and it
has evolved significantly over the past decades to incorporate the
company’s latest and greatest design, technology and convenience
features.
The first-generation Pathfinder (1987-1995) was introduced in
the two-door body style shown here, adding a four-door version for
the 1990 model year. It was offered with a 2.4-liter inline-four
engine or a 3.0-liter V6.
The second-generation model (1996-2004) switched to more
crossover-like unibody construction. It was a little lighter and
more aerodynamic, with greater interior space and safety
enhancements.
Offered from 2005-2012, the third-generation Pathfinder debuted
at the 2004 North American International Auto Show and went back to
a more rugged, body-on-frame design. For the first time, Pathfinder
had an available third row for seven-passenger capability. A
4.0-liter V6 was standard, with a 5.6-liter V8 – Pathfinder’s first
– introduced for the 2008 model year.
The fourth-generation Pathfinder (2013 – 2020) invoked a
crossover-like unibody design and introduced an unprecedented level
of premium style, comfort and thoughtful technology. For the 2017
model year, Pathfinder was significantly refreshed with a new
exterior look, additional available driver assistance features,
more power and enhanced towing capacity.
Today’s fifth-generation Nissan Pathfinder (2022-present) was
revealed in 2021 and once again elevated the SUV’s appeal with a
bold new design inspired by the original Pathfinder, additional
premium technologies and even more comfort for passengers.
Notably for those looking to venture beyond the pavement – and a
nod to the 4x4 capabilities of the original – the 2023 Pathfinder
added a Rock Creek model that helps owners take more adventurous
journeys with a raised, off-road-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels
with all-terrain tires and a tubular roof rack.
About the Nissan Heritage Collection
The Nissan Heritage Collection, currently open via private tour
only, contains a number of production and concept vehicles
significant to the brand’s U.S. operations.
See more highlights from the Nissan Heritage Collection:
- Nissan Altima
- Nissan Hardbody
- Datsun Fairlady 1200 Roadster
- Datsun 510
- Nissan Gobi Concept
About Nissan USA Stories
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version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240328703193/en/
Kevin Raftery Manager, Nissan Storytelling & Content
Kevin.Raftery@nissan-usa.com