does anyone know if the 05 has a 3rd row seat?

No, it does not. The Pathfinder does though, and an XE model compares VERY favorably with an 05 SE Xterra. If you need the 3rd-row seat and don't need a manual transmission or the better off-road potential of the Xterra, a Pathfinder is worth a look. I suspect an XE Pathfinder and an SE Xterra will probably be very close in price.

Yeah, the Pathfinder XE is $25.5k w/o any additional options. At worst case, an XE only gets up around $27k as there aren't many options available on them. Of course, with the XE such features as power windows, power locks, power mirrors, etc. are *standard* features.

We test drove one this past weekend before we decided on a new 05 Xterra and while it shares the same engine as the new Xterra, it does seem more sluggish. I'm sure this has to do with the weight to horsepower ratio as the Pathfinder weighs around 1k more. Of course, the Pathfinder is a little smoother ride and more "luxurious".