Hi Everyone!

We are buying another car and can't decide between the Nissan Pathfinder or the Isuzu MUX.  We need a seven seater with good towing power (0ur van is about 1.8 - 2 tonne fully loaded and we will have seven people/kids in the car). 

Both cars seem to fit these requirements, but they each have their pros and cons.  It seems the Isuzu has a better reputation, but I prefer the Pathfinder - more boot space and leg room for the back row.  We're just a little worried about the performance of the Pathfinder.     So, I'd love to hear from anyone with information on either.

Thanks in advance,

Lyn :) 

EDIT:  Should mention we are looking at 4cyl 2.5L Turbo Diesel pathfinders made after 2011.

Hi Lyn. This may be of assistance .
https://www.caravancampingsales.com.au/editorial/details/nissan-pathfinder-2019-tow-test-review-121724/

Nev

I'm with Greg in this one...the Mux by a country mile.With your family and belongings your car weight will be nearing the Pathfinder's limits,as GVM reduces by 200kg if a 2000kg trailer is hooked up with the generally accepted 10% towball weight.Wheel bases are similar for your two cars,but Mux is a bit lighter.As you suggest,the Pathfinder has more 'space' to carry stuff,but weight will be your problem.Gotta rush now,but later today I will give more details.Cheers

Colin Penrose wrote:

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Hilux !!!

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 Bit crowded with 7 people in a Hilux,me thinks? Is a Pajero Sport a 7 seater? Cheers

Nevd wrote:

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Hi Lyn. This may be of assistance .
https://www.caravancampingsales.com.au/editorial/details/nissan-pathfinder-2019-tow-test-review-121724/

Nev

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 Thanks Nev.  Had a look at it and it was helpful, although we are looking at older diesel models (sorry, forgot to put that it in post).  Still good to read, though, thank-you. :)

Greg 1 wrote:

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My choice would be the Isuzu.

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 Thanks Greg. :)

yobarr wrote:

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I'm with Greg in this one...the Mux by a country mile.With your family and belongings your car weight will be nearing the Pathfinder's limits,as GVM reduces by 200kg if a 2000kg trailer is hooked up with the generally accepted 10% towball weight.Wheel bases are similar for your two cars,but Mux is a bit lighter.As you suggest,the Pathfinder has more 'space' to carry stuff,but weight will be your problem.Gotta rush now,but later today I will give more details.Cheers

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 Thanks. I'd be interested in more details as I thought it was about the GCM.  I spoke with a mechanic from Nissan and he went through the figures with me and it all seemed okay, but not sure what he knows about towing. :)

Colin Penrose wrote:

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Hilux !!!

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 Thanks, but do they do a Hilux with 7 seats?

Full Van wrote:

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yobarr wrote:

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I'm with Greg in this one...the Mux by a country mile.With your family and belongings your car weight will be nearing the Pathfinder's limits,as GVM reduces by 200kg if a 2000kg trailer is hooked up with the generally accepted 10% towball weight.Wheel bases are similar for your two cars,but Mux is a bit lighter.As you suggest,the Pathfinder has more 'space' to carry stuff,but weight will be your problem.Gotta rush now,but later today I will give more details.Cheers

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 Thanks. I'd be interested in more details as I thought it was about the GCM.  I spoke with a mechanic from Nissan and he went through the figures with me and it all seemed okay, but not sure what he knows about towing. :)

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 Hi Lyn...PM sent.The GCM is not the problem,not by a long shot. Cheers

yobarr wrote:

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Full Van wrote:

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yobarr wrote:

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I'm with Greg in this one...the Mux by a country mile.With your family and belongings your car weight will be nearing the Pathfinder's limits,as GVM reduces by 200kg if a 2000kg trailer is hooked up with the generally accepted 10% towball weight.Wheel bases are similar for your two cars,but Mux is a bit lighter.As you suggest,the Pathfinder has more 'space' to carry stuff,but weight will be your problem.Gotta rush now,but later today I will give more details.Cheers

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 Thanks. I'd be interested in more details as I thought it was about the GCM.  I spoke with a mechanic from Nissan and he went through the figures with me and it all seemed okay, but not sure what he knows about towing. :)

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 Hi Lyn...PM sent.The GCM is not the problem,not by a long shot. Cheers

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 Yet another PM. So none of us know what advice you may be be offering.

I suppose you will be advising the OP to buy a Toyota Troop Carrier but I am only assuming this, mainly to the secret reply that you are offering.

To the OP just ensure you double check any info offered by Private Message.

Because no one can see what he is advising means that his advice is not subject to any scrutiny. I would suggest seeking the advice of a professional when it comes to vehicle weights rather than being blindly lead by the information provided in a private message from self appointed expert.

Regards

Rob

bentaxlebabe wrote:

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yobarr wrote:

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Full Van wrote:

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yobarr wrote:

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 Hi Lyn...PM sent.The GCM is not the problem,not by a long shot. Cheers

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 Yet another PM. So none of us know what advice you may be be offering.

I suppose you will be advising the OP to buy a Toyota Troop Carrier but I am only assuming this, mainly to the secret reply that you are offering.

To the OP just ensure you double check any info offered by Private Message.

Because no one can see what he is advising means that his advice is not subject to any scrutiny. I would suggest seeking the advice of a professional when it comes to vehicle weights rather than being blindly lead by the information provided in a private message from self appointed expert.

Regards

Rob

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 x 1

Get over it trolls, he sent a PM to inform as well as to stop your continuous hounding on the subject, the fact that Yobarr clearly has more knowledge then both of you put together must have you fuming. Now where oh where are the rest of the trolls!

Cindy I do realise it is seen as Improper to be Honest, but I have broad shoulders if you wish to make a sacrifice. I just wish you would stop the rubbish that trolls put out there, just to discredit, belittle someone for freely giving information.

Kebbin wrote:

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Get over it trolls, he sent a PM to inform as well as to stop your continuous hounding on the subject, the fact that Yobarr clearly has more knowledge then both of you put together must have you fuming. Now where oh where are the rest of the trolls!

Cindy I do realise it is seen as Improper to be Honest, but I have broad shoulders if you wish to make a sacrifice. I just wish you would stop the rubbish that trolls put out there, just to discredit, belittle someone for freely giving information.

-- Edited by Kebbin on Saturday 21st of December 2019 10:54:59 AM

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 Hi Kebbin,

I am sorry you feel that way.

I have complained to admin about him doing this and this is what was part of the answer last time I mentioned this.

quote

 Hopefully all members will consult with professionals when it comes to weight compliance as many comments made by forum participants, even if well-meaning, can be misinterpreted. 
Thanks again for writing; much appreciated.
Best wishes,

end quote,

In light of that comment I think the op should seek professional advice as Rob advised.

This is the only forum that I have been on that tolerates a thread being derailed by a member by messaging an answer to a member.

The reason is Kebbin, that by indicating there is a reply privately on the open forum,  the perpetrator is actually antagonising the other members, at times, particularly those who have already contributed and those who may be wanting an answer for themselves.

It is considered an the act of a troll.

A public forum is just that.

I may add that some of his other comments have been proved incorrect in many topics and when his advice is withheld from all of us then who knows what he has advised?

He has been asked repeatedly provide documentation of his qualifications seeing he is offering such professional advice, but until now he has not done so.

We are all still waiting.

On this forum you really can't say bad things about vehicle or c.vans, but I have a 09' Pathfinder, and although I love the car, and tow an1600kg van with it, and it does the job, Their is little or no longevity in the YD25 engine. MY vehicle has a major fault breakdown every 12 months or so, so is costing money I don't have, if my last vehicle had the capacity to tow this van it was a Suzuki Grand Vitara, which did 380000 km, and I never had to touch the engine except for services, I would have kept it. Go with the MUX, otherwise you will be disappointed, with your hand constantly in your pocket. EDIT: THe YD25 engine is in the year model range from 2007 - 2013, so it covers the year you are interested in. Look up also r51 model Pathys online as well as the engine type to find out what people say about their reliability.

-- Edited by Bicyclecamper on Saturday 21st of December 2019 02:18:42 PM

Iva Biggen wrote:

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Kebbin wrote:

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Get over it trolls, he sent a PM to inform as well as to stop your continuous hounding on the subject, the fact that Yobarr clearly has more knowledge then both of you put together must have you fuming. Now where oh where are the rest of the trolls!

Cindy I do realise it is seen as Improper to be Honest, but I have broad shoulders if you wish to make a sacrifice. I just wish you would stop the rubbish that trolls put out there, just to discredit, belittle someone for freely giving information.

-- Edited by Kebbin on Saturday 21st of December 2019 10:54:59 AM

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 Hi Kebbin,

I am sorry you feel that way.

I have complained to admin about him doing this and this is what was part of the answer last time I mentioned this.

quote

 Hopefully all members will consult with professionals when it comes to weight compliance as many comments made by forum participants, even if well-meaning, can be misinterpreted. 
Thanks again for writing; much appreciated.
Best wishes,

 

end quote,

In light of that comment I think the op should seek professional advice as Rob advised.

This is the only forum that I have been on that tolerates a thread being derailed by a member by messaging an answer to a member.

The reason is Kebbin, that by indicating there is a reply privately on the open forum,  the perpetrator is actually antagonising the other members, at times, particularly those who have already contributed and those who may be wanting an answer for themselves.

It is considered an the act of a troll.

A public forum is just that.

I may add that some of his other comments have been proved incorrect in many topics and when his advice is withheld from all of us then who knows what he has advised?

He has been asked repeatedly provide documentation of his qualifications seeing he is offering such professional advice, but until now he has not done so.

We are all still waiting.

 

 

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 Didnt take long for the little yapping dog to show up. Ivan youre 100 times more annoying than yobarr,  please drop it

Bookleaf wrote:

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I have a 2014/15 MUX
This would be my choice. I went through the decision process before buying the MUX, though I only have 2 passengers, not 7!

The GVM of either vehicle will be your problem.
I do not know about the Pathfinder but the figures for the MUX are:-
Empty weigh 2040
GVM 2750
So payload (approx) 700

The payload is made up of EVERYTHING you place in the empty MUX
ie Fuel, total passenger weight, all their junk carried in the MUX, tow ball weight, front bar (if you have one), tow bar, roof rack nad anything placed on it.
With 7 passengers, and full fuel and tow ball weight, I think there will not be much wriggle room for anything else.


Do the same calculation for the Pathfinder and I think you will find it too is running close to the wind in your situation.
There is no degrading of tow ratings with the MUX.

Still would go with the MUX.

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 Thank-you so much for your input.  I've done some calculations and both cars come out with almost the same result, although from what I've been reading here and elsewhere, the Isuzu sounds like a better option, so I'd say we'll be giving the Pathfinder a miss.   Thanks :)

Greg 1 wrote:

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Aside from the weight issues, which by the way I agree with the above comments, the Isuzu has a great little engine. Pretty much the same unit that powers their small trucks and is a real goodie. Very reliable vehicles. Only thing I have against them is damned if I could get comfortable in the driver's seat. Just a personal thing otherwise I would be driving a DMax right now.

Thanks for your input.  From what I've been reading here and elsewhere, the Isuzu sounds like a better option, so I'd say we'll be giving the Pathfinder a miss.  My hubby will be the one in the driver's seat, so good luck to him (ha, ha!)  Thanks :)

Bicyclecamper wrote:

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On this forum you really can't say bad things about vehicle or c.vans, but I have a 09' Pathfinder, and although I love the car, and tow an1600kg van with it, and it does the job, Their is little or no longevity in the YD25 engine. MY vehicle has a major fault breakdown every 12 months or so, so is costing money I don't have, if my last vehicle had the capacity to tow this van it was a Suzuki Grand Vitara, which did 380000 km, and I never had to touch the engine except for services, I would have kept it. Go with the MUX, otherwise you will be disappointed, with your hand constantly in your pocket. EDIT: THe YD25 engine is in the year model range from 2007 - 2013, so it covers the year you are interested in. Look up also r51 model Pathys online as well as the engine type to find out what people say about their reliability.

-- Edited by Bicyclecamper on Saturday 21st of December 2019 02:18:42 PM

-- Edited by Bicyclecamper on Saturday 21st of December 2019 02:34:37 PM

 

Thanks so much.  I just joined the Nissan Pathfinder group of FB and I'm getting a bad feeling about the car.  It just doesn't sound reliable enough, even though I'm sure many people have had no issues.  Your post is yet another confirmation that it's just too much of a risk, in my opinion.  Thank-you.  Much appreciated.  :)

Kebbin wrote:

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Get over it trolls, he sent a PM to inform as well as to stop your continuous hounding on the subject, the fact that Yobarr clearly has more knowledge then both of you put together must have you fuming. Now where oh where are the rest of the trolls!

Cindy I do realise it is seen as Improper to be Honest, but I have broad shoulders if you wish to make a sacrifice. I just wish you would stop the rubbish that trolls put out there, just to discredit, belittle someone for freely giving information.

-- Edited by Kebbin on Saturday 21st of December 2019 10:54:59 AM

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 Thanks Kebbin,and PetenSue for your support.The very reason I decided to PM Lyn is that it is becoming somewhat monotonous being abused,and having the accurate information I regularly supply,disputed by people who show little understanding of weights,and even less interest in learning.This all started waaaay back on the thread involving the 7100kg GCM DMax,where I endured pages of abuse,only to be proven correct by Boab,who went to the trouble of contacting Lovells direct,and having them confirm that everything I had posted was indeed correct.The 7100kg DMax doesn't exist.Then we had the GCM and GVM upgrades thread,where I was again proven correct".The most recent was the thread that gravitated towards how a WDH actually worked.I supplied the facts,and said that a WDH will  put extra weight onto the van's axle group,and will make the van overweight if that van already was at its legal ATM before the WDH was tensioned,but I was shot down and abused by several members.However,I have actual test results which show that,with a 3180mm wheelbase car with TBO of 1200mm,a towball weight of 350kg,and a towball to van axle measurement of 5000mm (5 metres),when the WDH was tensioned the car lost 100kg off its rear axle.The front axle of the car gained 66kg,with the van's axle group gaining the other 34kg......GCM stayed the same,obviously,but the weight on the van wheels increased by 34kg,while the car's front axle had 66kg returned to it. It needs to be noted that a WDH does not change towball weight. I have supplied these results to a well-respected senior member of the forum,for his information, and I did contemplate sending a PM to another couple of people who certainly need to learn,but I decided against doing so,as these people seem more intent on discrediting me than actually increasing their own knowledge base. C'est la vie.Not knowing stuff is understandable,as we all have to learn,but continually arguing and abusing those of us who do know achieves little,and may well further confuse those who actually are looking to learn.Anybody who disagrees with what I post might like to access a series of RV books written by Collyn Rivers,a recognised expert on weights and dynamics,with over 60 years experience in this field,as these books may help them to understand weights? The reason that I notify that a PM has been sent to a member is that not everybody actually signs in to this site to have a read of the forum,so there would be no way of them knowing of my message? One member continually challenged me to provide proof of my car's 3760kg GVM upgrade, but there was not even an acknowledgement from him when I finally figured out how to post a photo! I have many years 'hands on' experience with weights,but regularly I am challenged by the same members to provide details of my official qualifications,of which I have none.You don't need to be a meteorologist to know it's raining! Weights are not a subject where opinion has any merit....they are either right,or they are wrong.End of story.                                  Cheers,and a Merry Xmas to all. Happy travels.

P.S It is worth noting that Lyn ,after going through all the figures,had been told by a Nissan representative that it all seemed OK. Yeah,right! So much for 'eggspurts'. You never will get an unbiased opinion from anyone with a vested interest.

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bentaxlebabe wrote:

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yobarr wrote:

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Full Van wrote:

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yobarr wrote:

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I'm with Greg in this one...the Mux by a country mile.With your family and belongings your car weight will be nearing the Pathfinder's limits,as GVM reduces by 200kg if a 2000kg trailer is hooked up with the generally accepted 10% towball weight.Wheel bases are similar for your two cars,but Mux is a bit lighter.As you suggest,the Pathfinder has more 'space' to carry stuff,but weight will be your problem.Gotta rush now,but later today I will give more details.Cheers

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 Thanks. I'd be interested in more details as I thought it was about the GCM.  I spoke with a mechanic from Nissan and he went through the figures with me and it all seemed okay, but not sure what he knows about towing. :)

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 Hi Lyn...PM sent.The GCM is not the problem,not by a long shot. Cheers

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 Yet another PM. So none of us know what advice you may be be offering.

I suppose you will be advising the OP to buy a Toyota Troop Carrier but I am only assuming this, mainly to the secret reply that you are offering.

To the OP just ensure you double check any info offered by Private Message.

Because no one can see what he is advising means that his advice is not subject to any scrutiny. I would suggest seeking the advice of a professional when it comes to vehicle weights rather than being blindly lead by the information provided in a private message from self appointed expert.

Regards

Rob

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Thanks for your reminder to check information being offered.  I think that is a wise thing to do whether it be in a forum, private message, or face to face conversation with someone.  

I called a Nissan dealership before posting this question and spoke to a mechanic who went through some figures and he thought it would be okay.  However, we went to the Nissan dealer today and spoke to a few salesman, one who was previously a mechanic, and they said it can only up to 2 tonne max.  They believe the specs on Car Sales which said it can tow up to 3 tonne are incorrect, although I'm not sure where the first mechanic got his specs from the other day.  Anyway, we're just not even going to risk it with a Pathfinder.  Too many bad reviews and too much uncertainty about its towing ability.  Thanks :) 

Full Van wrote:

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bentaxlebabe wrote:

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yobarr wrote:

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Full Van wrote:

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yobarr wrote:

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I'm with Greg in this one...the Mux by a country mile.With your family and belongings your car weight will be nearing the Pathfinder's limits,as GVM reduces by 200kg if a 2000kg trailer is hooked up with the generally accepted 10% towball weight.Wheel bases are similar for your two cars,but Mux is a bit lighter.As you suggest,the Pathfinder has more 'space' to carry stuff,but weight will be your problem.Gotta rush now,but later today I will give more details.Cheers

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 Thanks. I'd be interested in more details as I thought it was about the GCM.  I spoke with a mechanic from Nissan and he went through the figures with me and it all seemed okay, but not sure what he knows about towing. :)

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 Hi Lyn...PM sent.The GCM is not the problem,not by a long shot. Cheers

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 Yet another PM. So none of us know what advice you may be be offering.

I suppose you will be advising the OP to buy a Toyota Troop Carrier but I am only assuming this, mainly to the secret reply that you are offering.

To the OP just ensure you double check any info offered by Private Message.

Because no one can see what he is advising means that his advice is not subject to any scrutiny. I would suggest seeking the advice of a professional when it comes to vehicle weights rather than being blindly lead by the information provided in a private message from self appointed expert.

Regards

Rob

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Thanks for your reminder to check information being offered.  I think that is a wise thing to do whether it be in a forum, private message, or face to face conversation with someone.  

I called a Nissan dealership before posting this question and spoke to a mechanic who went through some figures and he thought it would be okay.  However, we went to the Nissan dealer today and spoke to a few salesman, one who was previously a mechanic, and they said it can only up to 2 tonne max.  They believe the specs on Car Sales which said it can tow up to 3 tonne are incorrect, although I'm not sure where the first mechanic got his specs from the other day.  Anyway, we're just not even going to risk it with a Pathfinder.  Too many bad reviews and too much uncertainty about its towing ability.  Thanks :) 

-- Edited by Full Van on Saturday 21st of December 2019 11:29:38 PM

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 Yes, the choice of a tow vehicle certainly may open a minefield of differing specifications and requirements for the different vehicles. I am pleased that you are investigating all options before your purchase.

Quite often some will recommend not using a Weight Distribution Hitch even if the vehicle manufacturer recommends its use and anyone assessing a vehicle needs to recognise this important requirement for the safety aspect. 

Even after all assessments and vehicle choice has been made, it is advisable to attend a weighbridge and do a hands on exercise weighing the vehicle, van, and tow ball weight with the vehicle and the van loaded. Some adjustments may be achieved by the repositioning of items in the van but not so easy in most vehicles, particularly as you have a passenger list of seven.

Another point is that the ATM or Aggregate Trailer Mass of the van needs to be measured with the van disconnected from the tow vehicle which may be contrary to some thoughts and recommendations.

Good luck with the selection of the new vehicle, have a Safe and Merry Xmas, and for the record I would go with the MUX over the Pathfinder.

Regards

Rob