I'm gearing up to retire my '03 Trailblazer EXT for a '08-'12 Pathfinder. I wanted something a little smaller, but still had a 3rd row (for kids mostly) and had a decent towing capacity. After test driving a handful of Pathfinders, I'm in love! I do have a few questions/concerns I'm hoping this wonderful group can help with.
First off is towing. I've read quite a few threads here and around, and most everyone says the Pathfinder V6 has plenty of power to tow anything within reason. I do plan on installing airbags as well as brake controls. I have a popup camper that is almost 3500lbs fully loaded (has electric brakes) that we towed with my current ride on a 5000 mile trek through the Badlands, Yellowstone, and the Grand Tetons last year. In looking at stats on paper, the inline 6 of the trailblazer has very similar HP, torque, and power curve specs as the V6 in the Pathfinders. On long 12hr+ stretches of driving, I was really hoping the Trailblazer would be able to tow in OD at 70. Sadly, it couldn't, and the TB has no tow/haul button to keep the torque converter out of lockup. I also didn't like seeing the tach hang out at 3300+ RPMs for long periods of time if I dropped it out of OD. Needless to say, highways were a constant source of frustration. That trip was sans kayaks and bikes. We are heading out east next year for three weeks with the kayaks and bikes. What I hope, is that at 235000 miles the TB is just super tired. What I really hope that you can tell me is what I might expect when towing this type of setup at 70(ish)MPH. Will I be able to tow in OD? What kind of RPMs will I see on the tach if I can't? Or... Should I be patient and be on the hunt for one with the V8? If I'm honest though, after test driving a handful of Pathfinders, I don't know how long I'll be able to hold out in search of the elusive V8. I really want one in my driveway right now...
Secondly, could someone shed some light on the differences between the AWD and 4WD systems on the Pathfinder? It is my (very general and rudimentary) understanding that AWD systems are easier on the truck overall when it comes to mixed driving (roads that are somewhat but not constantly snow covered).
Are there any bells and whistles to look out for?
I do know to look for an external trans cooler on the '08-'10 models.
My price point has me looking at Pathfinders that have anywhere from 125k to 175k miles on them. Any high mile issues to look for?
How long do I have to own a Pathfinder for before it can be referred to as a Pathy?
Thanks so much for taking the time to read my ramblings, I'm very much looking forward to owning a Pathfinder and perusing the boards for mods and stories!
If you're interested, you can see my current setup here (just don't judge the kayak rigging. I now have a yakima rack that holds them a bit better):
https://photos.app.goo.gl/Kq4vqXEzbYua5dzt1