Add a part-time 4-wheel drive system to the XE and you get the 2005 Nissan Pathfinder XE 4WD, with more room, an extra third row of seats, and a powerful 4.0-liter, 270-hp DOHC V6 and new 5-speed automatic transmission.  Front and rear independent double wishbone suspension improves handling, and the 2005 Pathfinder XE 4WD comes with 4-wheel ABS brakes, traction and stability control, a tire pressure monitor, and 16-inch alloy wheels.  Standard dual front airbags can be supplemented by side impact bags for each row.

For the cheapest of the Pathfinders, you still get a good set of features, including power windows, locks, and mirrors, cruise control, a trip computer, tachometer, intermittent front and rear wipers, a CD player, security system, and enough storage compartments and holders to keep a family happy on long trips.  A roof rack and trailer hitch (up to 6000 pounds capacity) are standard, and the small 16 cubic foot cargo area expand to 79 cubic feet with both rear rows and the front passenger seat folded down.  Drivers of the 2005 Pathfinder XE 4WD seem to like its power and roominess, but complain about the cheap-looking materials and low 15/21 mpg.