Nissan Pathfinder

Buyers who like their 4x4s big, powerful, well equipped and capable of seating seven should take a look at the Nissan Pathfinder. This Discovery-sized off-roader is the latest model to join Nissan's increasing 4x4 line-up, effectively replacing the five-door Terrano. It's a far more sophisticated machine than the Terrano and represents good value alongside the likes of the Toyota Land Cruiser and Land Rover Discovery.

V6, DCI, SE, SVE, SPORT

S has 17 inch alloy wheels, dual zone climate control, front, side and curtain airbags, CD player, electric windows and heated door mirrors. The second row of seats (the entry-level is only a five-seater) has a 40:20:40 split. SE trim adds front fog lamps, roof rails, rear privacy glass, height and lumbar adjustable driver's seat, opening rear glass hatch and a third row of seats, which fold into the boot floor when not in use. It also has a compass, altimeter and trip computer as well as a CD autochanger with six speakers and steering wheel audio controls. SVE trim has side steps, leather upholstery, electric front seat adjustment with memory, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlamps and automatic dimming rear view mirror. It also has separate air conditioning controls in the rear and an 'Intelligent Key', which allows the driver to lock and unlock the doors and start and stop the engine without having to fumble for a key. The range-topping T-Spec model gets an electric tilt and slide sunroof and xenon headlamps with headlamp washers, DVD satellite navigation system and a colour reversing sensor. Model grades replaced by Trek, Sport and Aventura. Trek is based on the old five-seat S, while the seven-seat Sport is the new medium specification model. Aventura is much less expensive to buy than previous T-Spec, but is still lavishly equipped.

4.0 V6