Nissan Pathfinder Pickup: Everything you need to know about the rare SUV with a cargo compartment

In the world of cars Nissan Pathfinder known as a full-size SUV, but few people know that in the 90s the model was also produced in the body pickup. This option combined the cross-country ability of a classic SUV with the practicality of a truck, making it a unique offering on the market. Today such specimens have become rare, but interest in them does not fade among collectors and lovers of non-standard solutions.

In this article we will look at the history of creation Pathfinder Pickup, its technical features, we will compare it with modern analogues and we will tell you what to look for when buying a used copy. If you're looking for a reliable vehicle for work or travel that stands out from the standard pickup trucks, this information will be especially helpful.

Model history: why Nissan Pathfinder became a pickup truck

The idea to create a pickup truck based on Pathfinder appeared in the early 1990s, when the demand for universal vehicles for farmers and construction workers was especially high. Company Nissan decided to use the platform WD21 (first generation Pathfinder) to offer the market something between a passenger SUV and a truck. The model was named Nissan Pathfinder Convertible or Hardbody Truck depending on the market.

Production began in 1993 and continued until 1995, with the US and the Middle East becoming the main markets. The pickup retains all-wheel drive and reliable suspension from the original Pathfinder, but received an open cargo compartment instead of a third row of seats. Interestingly, some examples were equipped with a removable awning or hard top, which made them even more versatile.

• 📅 Years of production: 1993–1995
• 🏗️ Platform: WD21 (shared with the first generation Pathfinder)
• 🌍 Main markets: USA, Saudi Arabia, UAE
• 🔧 Engines: gasoline VG30E (3.0 l, 153 hp) and diesel TD27 (2.7 l, 99 hp)

Despite the limited release, Pathfinder Pickup has gained popularity among farmers and small business owners due to its combination of cross-country ability and carrying capacity. Today, these cars are considered collector's items, and their price on the secondary market can reach 50–70 thousand dollars for copies in perfect condition.

Specifications: what's under the hood of the Pathfinder Pickup

Under the hood Nissan Pathfinder Pickup Two types of engines were installed, each of which had its own characteristics. The basic one was petrol VG30E volume 3.0 liters, developing 153 hp. at 4800 rpm. This engine was famous for its reliability, but was quite voracious: fuel consumption in the combined cycle was about 14–16 liters per 100 km.

For markets with more stringent efficiency requirements, a diesel engine was offered TD27 (2.7 l, 99 hp). It consumed significantly less fuel (about 10 l/100 km), but was inferior to the gasoline version in dynamics. Both engines were mated to a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic.

Parameter	Gasoline VG30E	Diesel TD27
Volume	3.0 l	2.7 l
Power	153 hp	99 hp
Torque	237 Nm	205 Nm
Fuel consumption (combined)	14–16 l/100 km	9–11 l/100 km
Transmission	Manual transmission-5 / automatic transmission-4	Manual transmission-5

Feature Pathfinder Pickup there was an all-wheel drive system All-Mode 4WD, which allowed you to switch between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive on the fly. This made the car extremely convenient for driving on off-road and snow. The suspension—independent at the front and leaf spring at the rear—provided good load-carrying capacity (up to 1 ton) without loss of comfort.

⚠️ Attention: When buying used Pathfinder Pickup Be sure to check the condition of the springs and shock absorbers. Due to high loads, they often fail prematurely, especially if the car has been operated under overload.

Advantages and disadvantages: is it worth buying today?

Like any rare car, Nissan Pathfinder Pickup has its pros and cons. Among the main advantages:

• 🚙 Versatility: a combination of off-road qualities and the carrying capacity of a pickup truck.
• 🛠️ Ease of repair: many parts are compatible with the first generation Pathfinder And Navara.
• 💰 Investment attractiveness: The rarity of the model guarantees an increase in price over time.
• 🌍 Patency: All-wheel drive and high ground clearance (210 mm) allow you to overcome serious off-road conditions.

However, there are also significant disadvantages:

• ⛽ High fuel consumption: gasoline VG30E consumes up to 18 liters in the city.
• 🔧 Difficulty finding spare parts: Some parts (for example, body panels) have to be ordered from abroad.
• 🛑 Low passive safety: lack of modern protection systems (ABS appeared only in 1995).
• 💨 Noise: The diesel version is especially loud at high revs.

If you are considering Pathfinder Pickup as a work vehicle, keep in mind that its load capacity is inferior to modern pickups like Toyota Hilux or Ford Ranger. But it wins in cross-country ability and uniqueness. For collectors, this is one of the most interesting Nissan 90s.

Comparison with competitors: who was better?

In the 1990s, the pickup truck market was dominated by Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger And Mitsubishi L200. Nissan Pathfinder Pickup occupied a niche between them, offering more comfort than trucks, but inferior in carrying capacity. Let's compare it with its main competitors:

Model	Nissan Pathfinder Pickup	Toyota Hilux (1990–1997)	Ford Ranger (1993–1997)
Load capacity	1000 kg	1200–1500 kg	1100–1400 kg
Patency	Excellent (permanent all-wheel drive)	Good (pluggable 4WD)	Medium (depending on configuration)
Comfort	High (Pathfinder interior)	Medium (utilitarian interior)	Low (hard suspension)
Reliability	High (simple design)	Very high (legendary reputation)	Medium (electrical problems)

Pathfinder Pickup lost Hilux in carrying capacity, but won in comfort and handling. Compared to Ford Ranger At that time it was more reliable, especially in versions with a diesel engine. The main trump card Nissan became an all-wheel drive system All-Mode 4WD, which made it possible to drive off-road without having to stop to change modes.

If you need a pickup truck for heavy loads, it's better to take a closer look at Hilux or Navara. But if the combination of cross-country ability and comfort is more important - Pathfinder Pickup remains one of the best options among retro models.

Operation and tuning: how to upgrade Pathfinder Pickup

Thanks to its simple design, Pathfinder Pickup lends itself well to tuning. The most popular areas of modernization:

• 🔥 Power increase: chip tuning for gasoline VG30E (up to +20 hp), diesel turbocharged TD27.
• 🏔️ Off-road improvements: installation of differential locks, suspension lift (+2–3 inches), mud tires.
• 🛠️ Practicality: installation of a removable awning or aluminum kung box for travel.
• 🎨 Exterior: restyling of the front part (headlights from Pathfinder R50, new bumpers).

One of the most requested improvements is the replacement of the standard transfer case with a model from Nissan Patrol with reduction gear. This significantly increases the car's off-road capabilities. Also, many owners install additional fuel tanks (capacity up to 80 liters) to increase the range.

⚠️ Attention: When lifting the suspension by more than 50 mm, it is necessary to upgrade the steering rods and driveshafts, otherwise there is a risk of premature wear. Wheel alignment reconfiguration is also required.

For those who use a pickup truck for travel, it is important to install additional equipment:

• 🔋 External 12V/220V sockets for connecting a refrigerator or compressor.
• 💡 LED lighting for the cargo compartment and additional headlights on the roof.
• 📡 Strengthened antenna for communication in off-road conditions.

Which engine is better for tuning?

Gasoline VG30E easier to modify (ready-made supercharging kits are available), but diesel TD27 has greater potential for increased torque. However, a diesel engine will require a reinforced gearbox, since the standard manual transmission is not designed for high loads.

Where to buy and how much it costs: used Pathfinder Pickup market

Due to limited release Nissan Pathfinder Pickup today it is extremely rare. Main search sites:

• 🌎 Foreign auctions: eBay Motors, Copart, Japan Partner (copies from Japan and the USA).
• 🇷🇺 Russian sites: Avto.ru, Drome, but there are usually no more than 1–2 offers per year.
• 🤝 Owners clubs: forums Nissan Pathfinder Club or groups on social networks.

The cost depends on the condition and equipment:

• Restoration project: 15–25 thousand dollars (requires major repairs).
• Good condition (running): 30–50 thousand dollars.
• Collector's piece (perfect condition): 60–90 thousand dollars.

When purchasing, pay attention to:

1. Availability of original documentation (especially if the car was imported from abroad).
2. Frame condition - rust in this area often becomes critical.
3. All-wheel drive operation (check for any play in the transfer case).

⚠️ Attention: Many Pathfinder Pickup on the secondary market they have a mileage of over 300 thousand km. Without a full diagnosis, buying such a car is risky - there is a high probability of hidden problems with the engine or transmission.

Owner reviews: pros and cons in real use

Those who ruled Nissan Pathfinder Pickup, mark it as one of the most balanced pickups of its time. Here's what the owners say:

• ✅ Andrey, Moscow: “I bought it in 2020 for hunting trips. In two years I have never let you down - neither snow nor dirt is a problem. Consumption, of course, is high, but I don’t mind the reliability.”
• ✅ Igor, Ekaterinburg: “The diesel version with a manual transmission is the best option for off-road use. It pulls like a tractor, but is noisy in the city. The main thing is not to overload, otherwise the clutch will burn out quickly.”
• ❌ Sergey, Krasnodar: "I took it for work, but after a year I realized that the carrying capacity was not enough. It will do for light loads, but for construction it is better to take Hilux."
• ✅ Alexey, St. Petersburg: "I restored a 1994 copy. The most difficult thing is to find the original body parts. But the result is worth it - the car looks like new and attracts attention at every traffic light."

General conclusion: Pathfinder Pickup appeals to those who value uniqueness and maneuverability, but are not suitable for commercial use with heavy loads. Owners also note that maintenance is cheaper than modern pickups, but requires more time to find spare parts.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Nissan Pathfinder Pickup

Is it possible to install a Nissan Patrol engine on a Pathfinder Pickup?

Yes, but the mounts and cooling system will need to be modified. Most compatible motors TB42 (4.2 l, gasoline) and TD42 (4.2 l, diesel) from Patrol Y60. It will also be necessary to upgrade the transmission, since the standard box Pathfinder not designed for the high torque of these engines.

What kind of oil should I put in the VG30E engine?

It is recommended to use semi-synthetic oil 10W-40 or 5W-40 (for cold climates) with classification API SG/SH. System volume is 4.5 liters. It is important to check the oil level every 1000 km, as VG30E prone to burnout, especially at high speeds.

How much does it cost to repair a transfer case?

The cost depends on the amount of work:

• Replacement of oil seals - from 5 to 10 thousand rubles.
• Repair of bearings - 15–25 thousand rubles.
• Complete overhaul with replacement of gears - 40-60 thousand rubles.

Prices do not include spare parts. It is better to order original parts (for example, bearings) using catalog numbers Nissan, since analogues often last 2–3 times less.

Is it possible to install an air conditioner if it did not come from the factory?

Yes, but it is a labor-intensive process. You will need:

1. Buy a compressor, radiator and pipes from Pathfinder R50 (1996–2000).
2. Upgrade electrical wiring (add relays and fuses).
3. Make fastenings for the air conditioner radiator in the front bumper.

The cost of service work is from 30 thousand rubles (excluding spare parts). Self-installation is possible, but requires skills in working with refrigeration equipment.

Which tires are best for off-road use?

Optimal options:

• BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 — universal for the city and light off-road.
• Toyo Open Country M/T — aggressive tread for serious off-road use.
• Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac — a good balance between noise and cross-country ability.

Recommended size - 265/75 R15 or 31x10.5 R15. When installing larger tires, the arches may need to be trimmed.