With more power, courtesy of a 270-hp, 4.0-liter DOHC V6, a new 5-speed automatic, 291 lb-ft or torque, and a longer length, the 2005 Nissan Pathfinder LE is a rear-wheel drive SUV that now seats seven people in three rows and can tow up to 6000 pounds.  Storage consoles, cupholders for each row, and dual-zone climate control offer conveniences, and the fold-down second and third rows, plus the front passenger seat, expand the 16 cubic foot cargo space to 79 cubic feet.  A roof rack and trailer hitch are also standard.

The 2005 Pathfinder LE is the luxurious trim, and adds heated leather seats, heated mirrors, a garage opener, a sunroof, dual power front seats and power-adjustable pedals, wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, a CD changer/MP3 player, and automatic headlights to what you get on the SE (power features, intermittent front and rear wipers, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and foglights).  A tire monitor, traction and stability control, 4-wheel ABS brakes, and dual front-side and side impact airbags for each row earn 4 and 5-star crash ratings for the 2005 Pathfinder LE.  A DVD player, satellite radio, and navigation system can be added.  Class-leading power, the extra passenger room, smooth and easy handling, and long list of features are what attracts happy owners.  The few complaints mention gas mileage and the minuscule legroom in the third row.