What's the difference?
The Nissan Pathfinder has evolved over the years from what was quite a rough-and-tumble Ford Everest style vehicle to a remarkably plush three-row family SUV.
Although it took a while to reach Australia, when the fifth-generation version landed in late 2022 it was a huge leap over its predecessor. And yet it has been a relatively slow seller in Australia.
In the first half of 2024 only 405 were registered, less than a tenth of the segment benchmark Toyota Kluger (5861 sales).
This can be largely attributed to a lack of choice in the Pathfinder range, following Nissan culling entry-grade variants early on leaving only the relatively expensive Ti and Ti-L grades, both fitted with a V6 petrol engine.
To increase customer choice, Nissan has reintroduced the ST-L mid-spec trim with the option of front-wheel drive for under $60,000, before on-road costs. But is it a good buy?
The updated Audi Q7 is a bit of a game of ‘spot the difference’ - but even though it’s far from a new generation, the update is more than just some shiny new bits.
While the brand’s first SUV is still in its second generation, a bit of modernised design and some tech tweaks are aimed at keeping it in line with rivals, even as it nears a decade on sale.
As well as the new features, there’s also a new variant bound for Aussie showrooms. So, is it still up to the task?
There’s a lot to like about the Nissan Pathfinder. The current model not only looks a lot better than its predecessor but in ST-L trim — and with an even cheaper front-wheel drive model — it offers the kind of value Australian families are chasing.
For all its practicalities, towing capacity and refined driving experience, the Pathfinder’s fatal flaw is its limited engine choice. A thirsty petrol V6 with no engine start-stop tech stunts its appeal for those who live in suburban areas where a Kluger hybrid just works better.
The ST-L is a worthy consideration for your next purchase if you’re less bothered about fuel use, and it's the pick of the line-up, offering just about every creature comfort and safety feature you'd want in a good-value package.
Overall, changes to the Q7 aren’t quite revolutionary, but that’s okay because it was already a fantastic large SUV.
The fact Audi has kept the price around the same mark and introduced a cheaper entry-grade should be welcome news for prospective buyers.
But even the existing variants are capable and impressive family haulers… and now they’re just that little bit better.
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.