Nissan’s go-anywhere Pathfinder mid-size SUV has been upgraded with a 2010 facelift.

Major news is a substantially improved 2.5-litre common rail turbo-diesel engine with 11 per cent more power (140kW) and 12 per cent more torque (450Nm). Pathfinder is now exclusively diesel with the V6 petrol engine being deleted. 

Despite the extra performance, the new diesel is actually 15 per cent more fuel efficient than the superseded model, returning 8.5l/100kms (six-speed manual) and 9.0l/100kms (five-speed automatic).

External changes have added 80mm to the Pathfinder’s length and include a new bonnet, grille and bumpers. Headlights are new too with range-topping Ti models gaining Xenon lights with auto-leveling and washers.

Inside are new seat trims, door trims and a revised central dashboard instrument cluster. Mid-range ST-L models gain leather seats (previously exclusive to Ti versions) while Ti switches from wood grain trim to a more modern metallic look with revised dials and 4WD switchgear controls. 

Base model ST scores a six-CD in-dash audio system and Bluetooth with steering wheel controls is standard across the range.

Ti adds a 7-inch colour screen for its 9.3Gb ‘Music Box’ hard drive audio system and also receives a new hard-drive satellite navigation system with touch screen control and 3D mapping. The same screen is used for the reversing camera with Predictive Path Technology. 

The good news is, pricing for the entry-level ST remains $48,490, ST-L goes up by only $3,500 and Ti rises by just $2,750 – that’s great value considering all of the extra specifications.

Prices are:

ST Manual - $48,490
ST Automatic - $51,490
ST-L Manual - $56,490
ST-L Automatic - $59,490
Ti (Automatic only) - $65,990