Nissan Pathfinder Ti550 vs Jeep Grand Cherokee

The top-of-the-range Pathfinder gets reversing camera with predictive path, dual-zone climate control, electric glass sliding sunroof, reclining second-row seating, and third-row seating. It also has an eight-inch rear-seat DVD system, as well as Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, satnav, and much more.

The best-value four-wheel drive, the Overland features dual-zone climate control, heated steering wheel, heated front and rear seats, leather seats, rain-sensing wipers, key-fob operated power tailgate, satnav, Bluetooth, iPod connectivity, and more.

It's big and boxy which should mean roomy. But it's not. The small glasshouse makes the inside feel cramped and the back seat is uncomfortable. It's a shame, for a vehicle costing about $80k, that Nissan's interior decorators didn't spend more money on better quality plastics.

Park the Overland next to the Pathfinder and it's like putting a stallion next to a donkey. It features an interior swathed in leather, enviro-wood and high-quality plastics. There's decent room in the front and the back, but there's no third row.

The Renault-borrowed 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel sounds good on paper, but disappoints due to the clumsy seven-speed auto, which feels as if it's playing with two less cogs. The 80-litre tank and 9.5 litres/100km consumption offers decent range. But the short-travel suspension means it can't go far off-road.

Also running a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6, it has 177kW/550Nm and you can feel the power. Mated to a five-speed auto that should be clumsy, but isn't. Steering is direct and adjustable airbag suspension coupled with terrain-mode adjustment makes it fun on-road and capable off-road.

The Pathfinder carries a 2005-issued four-star ANCAP rating, and gets six airbags (with side curtains). Has stability and traction control systems, ABS with Brake Assist, pre-tensioner seat belts for the front, auto-dimming rear view mirror, and more.

Only four ANCAP stars, but is well equipped with features including rain brake assist, and trailer sway control. Also has Enhanced Accident Response System that shuts off fuel, unlocks doors, turns on hazard lights and interior lamps when airbags are deployed.

The numbers and appearance suggest it should be a juggernaut. Sorry, but no. The gearbox is clumsy, the throttle dull and the steering slow. Worse is the short-travel suspension that compresses horribly with a few bags in the back.

On and off-road it's a joy thanks to direct steering, strong brakes, easy-to-modulate throttle and plenty of grunt on tap. While air suspension can be spongy that's not the case here. With up to 271mm of ground clearance, it'll go places the Pathfinder won't.