2010 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Options Include V6 and V8 Designs
During the current model year, 2010 Nissan Pathfinder engine options include V6 and V8 designs. The V6 power plant is available on all models, while the V8 option is only available in models restricted to continuous four-wheel drive mode.
The legendary 4.0-liter V6 power plant from last year remains unchanged. The 24-valve cylinder head supports 266 hp while generating 288 ft-lb of torque. The air induction system utilizes variable-flow to optimize back pressure. Valve timing is controlled by a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS). Because of the complementary function of these proven features, 2010 Nissan Pathfinder engine options allow all owners to use either regular or premium gas.
The innovative design of the 4.0L power plant insures reliable and brisk performance. To increase power and reduce emissions, all 4.0L models include platinum-tipped spark plugs that reduce fouling and increase performance. An electronic drive-by-wire throttle linkage insures maximum acceleration remains available.
The 5.6-liter V8 option produces 310 hp while generating 388 ft-lb of torque. Four vales per cylinder are synchronized by double-overhead camshafts. In addition, the V8 also increases performance and reduces emissions using a variable intake system, CVTCS and premium spark plugs.
The 2WD-4WD model and the full-time 4WD model are both available with two different transmissions. A 5-speed automatic transmission is standard. Owners may alternatively choose a 5-speed automatic transmission that includes a manual operation mode.
The 2010 Pathfinder incorporates few obvious exterior updates. The distinctive styling characteristics of this SUV remain the same. Rear-door handles are mounted higher than front-door handles in a vertical position. According to the factory, this limits access by small children.
The familiar exterior profile is rugged yet practical. Most shoppers believe the Pathfinder is sufficiently stylish without requiring a complete cosmetic overhaul. Nevertheless, rumors abound regarding future changes despite sustained popularity.
Find out more about Nissan Pathfinder Engine and other industry specific topics
If you haven’t paid attention to the Altima since Bill Clinton was president, know it’s grown from a compact economy car into a powerful, confident-handling, midsize, entry-level luxury sedan that maintains Nissan’s sporty flavor and, especially for 2010, offers assertive styling.
The four-door Altima Sedan comes as the 2.5 CVT, 2.5 S and 3.5 SR CVT. Also, under the Altima umbrella is the Altima Coupe and Altima Hybrid sedan. (We’ll leave the coupe and hybrid sedan for future reviews.) Here’s how to decode Nissan’s model nomenclature. The “2.5″ indicates the car is fitted with a very strong 175-horsepower, 2.5-liter, four-cylinder. The “3.5″ means it enjoys the awesome 270-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine. All Altimas are fitted with a “CVT,” which stands for “continuously variable transmission.” More on CVTs later. Prices start around $20,000 and go to almost $30,000 for the gas-engine cars.
If you’re looking for an affordable, very roomy sedan, consider the 2.5 CVT. If you’re willing to pay a bit more for Nissan’s sporty feel, the 2.5 S CVT is an excellent choice. Those who like to go BMW hunting in the stoplight Grand Prix or on a curvy back road will be very entertained by the 270-horsepower 3.5 SR CVT.
Changes for 2010 feature a more assertive hood, grille and front bumper cover. Inside, the Altima received new fabrics. Electronic stability control, which Nissan calls VDC, now comes on all Altimas, but that’s not too newsy as it will soon be government-required on all passenger vehicles. The 3.5 SR CVT (formerly called the SE) now comes with high-intensity discharge headlights.
Rather than physically changing gears like a conventional automatic, a CVT uses a belt and pulley system. It’s designed to keep the engine at its most-efficient speed for the task required, regardless of whether that’s optimum fuel mileage during highway cruising or maximum acceleration for merging into traffic. Few drivers will notice a difference between a CVT and a regular automatic, except for improved fuel economy and strong acceleration. Gearheads: The Altima’s CVT also employs a small gearset to increase its effective ratio range. Don’t take this too hard, gearheads, but the CVT does a far better job of maximizing the engine’s performance than you could with a manual transmission.
The four-cylinder delivers 23 miles per gallon in the government’s city driving test and a very impressive 32 mpg on the highway. The V6 is rated at 20 mpg in the city and 27 on the highway. Altimas are made in Tennessee and Mississippi.
The 2010 Altima received “Good” crash safety ratings by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in both front offset and side impact tests. In the government’s crash test studies, the Altima Sedan scored high marksfive starsin both driver and passenger frontal impacts, as well as side driver impacts, and four out of five stars in the rollover category and side rear passenger impact test.
If you’re thinking about ditching the SUV for a spacious and sporty sedan, think about the 2010 Altima.