2008 Nissan Pathfinder Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.31/5 Average
88 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 2008 Nissan Pathfinder receives its biggest update since its last full redesign in '05. Most significantly, a V8 engine is available for the first time. Nissan has taken the 5.6-liter V8 from its full-size Armada SUV and made it optional in the Pathfinder. In this application, it makes 310 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque and also raises the Pathfinder's maximum towing capacity to 7,000 pounds. Inside, you'll find a revised interior with new gauges and cupholders and a larger center stack display screen. New or updated convenience features are also part of the deal, including a new navigation system with a hard-drive-based music storage unit. Visually, the '08 Pathfinder looks a bit different thanks to updated front and rear styling and new wheel designs.

Pros:
  • Powerful V6 and V8 engines, well-designed interior, ample storage and cargo space, high towing capacity, above-average off-road ability.
Cons:
  • Second- and third-row seats are cramped for adults, ride and handling not on par with car-based competitors.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 88.00
  • Worst car in this size - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    In two years 5 problems, the roof leaking, solenoid, valve, airbags, battery, window and two problem with solutions. Mechanical service, Maroone of Miami is the worst thing in this matter. The final point is new car with to many problems, whats next

  • Right Choice - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    We test drove a Chevy Tahoe, a Toyota 4Runner, a Toyota Highlander, and a Nissan Pathfinder. The Pathfinder had styling, comfort, and plenty of room inside. The only negative factor weve discovered is that it tends to wander at speeds above 60 mph. No problem with transmission as described by other owners.

  • Initial Gas Mileage, Etc. - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    The only thing that I was hesitant about prior to purchase was the poor mileage reports for the Pathfinder, both V6 and V8. My 2008 Pathfinder S 4x4, 4.0L V6 automatic after the first 3 tanks averaged 18.2 mpg in the city. This is what the in-dash computer was telling me but I didnt believe it until I crunched the numbers after each fillup. Much better than I expected. This is in-town driving with maybe 10 to 20% expressway. Im fairly light-footed and you can tell a difference if you put your foot into it but Im not nursing it either. This is a superb SUV for the money.

  • Satisfied Owner - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    I have had the Pathfinder for about 8 months and have driven 6500 miles on it including a recent 3000 mile trip. Therefore I have had ample opportunities to evaluate it and am on the whole satisfied with this SUV. Being a previous Toyota sedan owner, I was choosing between the 4runner and Pathfinder. I feel completely comfortable with the choice I made as the 4runner did not feel luxurious enough from inside and had horrible 3rd row seating option. Now to more details on my experience with the pathfinder - the driving experience is great, interiors have a plush feel, rear view is awesome, sound system is good and overall car experience has been great.

  • Great SUV - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    love this SUV. Great power and very reliable. No problems so far with 50k miles. It has so much power and the options are amazing. I drove some other SUVs and no comparison. The patty has more space, more power, more options.The v8 can tow anything and great for on and off road.

  • Third Pathfinder in a Row - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    This is my 3rd. Had an 01 (my favorite), an 05 and just picked up an 08. Was initally looking for something bigger & w/side airbags standard, but for price, value & fun-to-drive I was back to the Pathfinder. Found an SE w/ side airbags which came loaded minus the leather seats. Ive had others including Cherokee and Volvo XC90 - Pathfinder has the best performance(very fast!), character, and lots of storage. Many of the materials on the 08 seem better than 05, the cabins quieter and the wheels/tires are larger, so its a slightly different ride. Doesnt seem to corner quite as well, but the 01 handled the best. The thick steering wheel feels just right, and the truck is easy to drive.

  • Great SUV for the money. - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    I have had my Pathfinder for a little more than 2 weeks. Absolutley love it. The engine is a monster, just plain fun to drive! Gas mileage is whats expected. If people are concerned about gas mileage, then stay away from higher displacement engines... nuff said. If people want to complain about the legroom in the third row, upgrade to a bigger car. I have yet to sit in the third row of any midsize SUV and feel comfortable. It just comes with the territory. I am more than satisfied with my purchase, and hope to have this car for years to come.

  • Excellent truck, now with great gadgets - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    I traded up from a 2005 Pathfinder, which I was always impressed with. I wanted the new features (Bluetooth, Intelligent Key, backup camera, Music Box, better navigation with touch screen, voice commands and traffic) added in the 2008 model. The powerful V6 has always been my favorite feature, and my last Pathfinder proved very reliable and versatile. The gadgets are great, but Im disappointed that MP3s cant be loaded into the Music Box. Otherwise, I find the Pathfinder to be perfect vehicle.

  • Love it! - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    Ive owned it about 6 months and put 16,000 miles on it. It has been an excellent ride and problem free. I got the loaded version and it has been totally worth it. The voice recognition works really well and the navigation system is excellent. I didnt realize that I would like the keyless feature as much as I have. Ive gotten so lazy that it now irritates me to have to get my key out when I drive my other car. It has a lot of nice touches both inside and out and I have absolutely no buyer remorse!

  • Transmission Woes - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    This is my first Nissan. First off, I love the looks and design of the unit. After my first road trip with the unit 1500 miles I started experiencing the dreaded torque converter problem you will read about. It has lived at the dealer for weeks while they an Nissan diagnosed the problem. The long and short, there is no known cure for these symptoms. 30-45 MPH (5th gear) torque converter clunks with slightest variation in RPM (up and down). Worse yet is that at highway speeds (cruise on) down a hill, it happens over and over again (worse). Now 15000+ miles, cant stand to drive the truck because of the clunking. Make sure that you keep on the dealer for a fix! This condition is not right!

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