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I pretty much have it narrowed down between the Acura MDX (used 2014) or fully loaded Nissan Pathfinder (new 2014-2015). I have test driven both several times. I have played with the seats, the controls, etc. I like how they both drive.
The MDX - I've wanted one since they came out years ago. Love the way it drives, love the new features of the 2014 model (easy access 3rd row, push start, etc). Love the way it looks in styling. Looking at the MDX with Technology package. Would probably look at used/certified 2014's (my lease is up in March of 2015). Worried that the 2014 is a new redesign, but I haven't been hearing about too many problems with them.
The Pathfinder - I like the redesign, though I prefer the styling of the MDX. I like the way it drives - I currently drive a Nissan with a CVT transmission, so am used to that. I can get the color combo I really like (blue exterior and black interior). I would be trading in my leased Nissan Quest for another Nissan, so would probably be able to get a better deal on a Pathfinder. I'm worried about the issues I've been hearing since the redesign. I would probably try to get a new one (so 2015 or very late 2014 model) - are these issues fixed? Transmission issues/shuddering, etc are the main complaints I read about.
We use the 3rd row very sporadically - mainly for hauling girl scouts on field trips. We don't haul adults around. Would be getting the AWD with either vehicle. We take long cross country road trips at least once a year. No pets, 2 kids (ages 5 and 9 when my lease is up).
The MDX is a difficult vehicle to beat in its segment, and I would always take one over a Parhfinder.
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I think the new pathfinder looks like a minivan; I'd go MDX. :-) Not sure if it's a factor, but you should know that the 2014 MDX requires 91 octane. I don't know what the Pathfinder requires.
Luxury vs. Non-luxury (although you could upgrade to all the bells and whistles). Depends on what you want, the MDX is more costly, but get's better MPG. If you want a vehicle that can be used as a utility with nice options get the pathfinder, if you want a luxury vehicle get the mdx.
I don't want a truck like feel, so have crossed this off the list.
The durango is nice, but I already have a minivan, and don't want something quite that large again.
My current Nissan (2012 Quest) is my 3rd Nissan and I have never had issues with any of them. Butt he reliabilty issues in the new pathfinder does concern me. But then Again I see a TON of them on the road around here. It would be a fully loaded model if I went with the pathfinder.
I've also got my eye on the Infinity QX60. It's not as sporty feeling as the MDX. I also see a ton of these around my neighborhood. I didn't care for how the Ford explorer drove, and the Audi Q7 is not on my list either.
I drive a lot, and really enjoy driving. I've put 40,000 miles on my van already (got in jan 2012). So how a car feels, the interior, etc are important to me. It's more than just getting from point A to B.
Go for the MDX because it's ACC feature practically drives itself.
*I'm biased. I really want an MDX because of its awesome ACC. I hope the RDX comes out with it because the MDX is too expensive for me.
ETA: I know you said you only want the technology package, but you should seriously consider the advance package to get the ACC.
I will if I can find one in my price range
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