Power from the 4.0-liter V6, while not in the stump-pulling class, is more than adequate. The Pathfinder's power builds smoothly, pulling solidly to the upshift limiter, which is programmed to step in at 6200 revolutions per minute. The engine moved this truck's nearly two-and-one-half tons at significantly extra-legal speeds with the same aplomb as we noted while slogging through muddy ruts. A welcome side benefit is the healthy exhaust note accompanying the engine's ups and downs.

The five-speed automatic transmission shifts up and down almost imperceptibly, with smooth gear changes executed by the computerized engine management system. Pathfinder's throttle is drive-by-wire, which allows a more measured tip-in when in 4WD.

An extended exploration in an SE Off-Road of a muddy, technical, single-vehicle track in a heavily wooded area on Bainbridge Island across the bay from Seattle proved not only the effectiveness of this alternative throttle programming, but also the surprising dexterity of the Pathfinder in the rough. We crawled over downed trees, crossed axle-deep water holes and descended sloppy slopes without stress, strain or undue slippage. Give credit in part to the SE Off-Road's impressive 9.2 inches of ground clearance.

The available All-Mode electronic transfer case lets the driver switch from 2WD to AUTO 4WD, locked 4WD High and 4WD Low ranges.

Hill Descent Control controls the Pathfinder on steep descents without the constant application of the brake pedal, very useful on muddy grades where locking up the brakes can result in sliding off the trail and into the trees. It's never good when that happens. With HDC, the driver only needs to steer. HDC is engaged by the driver via a switch when the transfer case is engaged in 4HI or 4LO, and it works in reverse as well. It can be activated at speeds up to 31 mph in 4HI and 15 mph in 4LO.

Hill Start Assist allows the driver to stop on a slope, release the brake pedal and not roll back for up to two seconds. HSA is always active and is available in 2WD, 4HI, and 4LO. HSA is designed for rugged, low-speed off-road driving situations.

On the highway, the Pathfinder's steering provided comforting on-center feel. Swiftly executed lane changes were managed well.

Brake pedal feel was also solid. ABS is standard, as is Electronic Brake-force Distribution. The former helps the driver maintain steering control while using the brakes full-force, especially on uncertain surfaces. The latter continuously and instantly shifts maximum braking force to the wheels with the most weight on them, even as the car's weight shifts forward while stopping.