Kicking it up a notch from the base XE, the 2005 Nissan Pathfinder SE is a rear-wheel drive SUV that now seats seven in three rows.  A new 4.0-liter, 270-hp DOHC V6 engine and 5-speed automatic make up the powertrain, and a new independent double wishbone rear suspension makes the truck-based SUV easier to handle on the road.  The 2005 Pathfinder SE features 4-wheel ABS, traction and stability control, a tire monitor, 16-inch alloy wheels, and dual front airbags.  Side impact airbags for all three rows is extra.

The SE adds foglights and an 8-way power driver's seat to the base model, which already included full power features, intermittent front and rear wipers, cruise control, a trip computer, CD player, air conditioning, running boards, and a roof rack.  A trailer hitch is also standard, and the powerful Pathfinder can tow a maximum of 6000 pounds. What really distinguishes the SE is the long list of options, including a power passenger seat, power adjustable pedals, heated leather seats, heated mirrors, a DVD player, satellite radio, sunroof, remote garage opener, automatic headlights, and auto-dimming rearview mirror, a CD changer/MP3 player, and rear climate control.  Lots of space, nice style, good layout, and confident power rate highly with owners of the 2005 Pathfinder SE.  There are minor complaints about the 16/23 mpg, the lack of a cargo cover, and the plastic interior parts.