Overview & Reviews

Once upon a time, somebody looked at a small, off-roading vehicle like the Nissan Pathfinder and said to himself: "You know, I think I could use that to replace the family station wagon. It's a lot cooler looking than dad's Country Squire. And I wouldn't be caught dead in a minivan." Since then, the Pathfinder and other SUVs have become increasingly larger and luxurious to meet the demand of millions of like-minded buyers.

You can see this evolution in the Pathfinder's timeline of four generations. The carlike current model excels as a three-row family hauler, and it's even available as a hybrid. Earlier Pathfinders -- and the third generation in particular -- were more rugged and capable for towing, but not as comfortable or fuel efficient.

Current Nissan Pathfinder
The Nissan Pathfinder is a three-row crossover SUV that's offered in S, SV, SL and Platinum trim levels. The base S trim is indeed pretty basic for this segment, so we think most people will be better served by the SV, which includes items like a power driver seat, Bluetooth, a rearview camera and an iPod interface. The two upper trims can be had with nearly all of the luxuries found on the mechanically related Infiniti JX35. Note that the Hybrid is not offered in S trim.

Powering the standard Pathfinder is a 3.5-liter V6 engine that sends 260 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels through a CVT (continuously variable transmission). The Pathfinder Hybrid pairs a supercharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a 15-kilowatt electric motor, yielding a combined 250 hp and 243 lb-ft. All-wheel drive is optional with either powertrain. Hybrid fuel economy is estimated to exceed 25 mpg in mixed driving, while the regular Pathfinder stays in the low 20s.

In daily driving, the Pathfinder's ride is laudably comfortable and composed. If you're looking for agile handling, this Nissan may disappoint, but otherwise it's about as pleasant to drive as a big crossover can be. Performance is smooth and more than adequate with the V6, and the Hybrid promises meaningful efficiency gains without giving up too much acceleration.

Inside, the Pathfinder's cabin is put together well and boasts quality materials. Despite the abundance of features (especially in higher trims), the various controls are easy to reach and intuitive. The second-row seat slides and reclines to optimize comfort for passengers or cargo space behind as needs dictate. Access to the third row is eased by the second row's tilt and slide feature, which can be used even when a child seat is in place. The third row offers enough headroom for 6-foot passengers, but clearance gets a little tight beyond that, and legroom is limited.

If maximum space is a priority, some larger crossover SUVs such as the Chevrolet Traverse might be a better choice. But overall we're fond of the Pathfinder and think it fits very well with the typical family's needs and desires.

Used Nissan Pathfinder Models
The current, fourth-generation Nissan Pathfinder was completely redesigned for 2013 and represents a dramatic shift from its predecessor. The Pathfinder is now a car-based crossover SUV, boasting a more space-efficient cabin, better fuel economy, front- or all-wheel drive, V6 or hybrid power and a CVT. As a result, it is better to drive, cheaper to fill up and generally nicer to live with.

The most notable change for the current Pathfinder has been the introduction of the Hybrid model for 2014.

The previous, third-generation Nissan Pathfinder was produced from 2005-'12. Unlike its unibody predecessor and successor, this Pathfinder featured truck-based body-on-frame construction that lent it a commendably strong 7,000-pound towing capacity when properly equipped. However, it also made it heavier, less space-efficient inside and ponderous to drive.

Originally, the standard engine was a 4.0-liter V6 that produced 266 hp and 288 lb-ft of torque. For 2008, a 5.6-liter V8 became an option, making 310 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque that was more up to the task of lugging this heavy Pathfinder around. Both engines came standard with a five-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, while a four-wheel-drive system was an option. As expected, fuel economy was not a strong suit for either engine.

The interior was roomy enough for four adults in the first two rows, but only little kids could fit in the third row. On the upside, most of Nissan's comfort and convenience features were offered, and its maximum cargo capacity of 79 cubic feet should still be enough for most folks.

Pathfinder buyers of this generation typically had a choice of four trim levels: base S, midgrade SV, the more luxurious Silver and the upscale LE. For those interested in using a Pathfinder for some off-roading, Nissan offered an SE Off Road 4x4 trim from 2005-'10 that featured such all-terrain items as special tires, Bilstein shocks, skid plates, hill descent control and hill start assist.

If you're looking at this generation Pathfinder, know that its strengths relate mostly to its power and towing capacity. For more typical family use, competing crossovers or SUVs of similar vintage will likely be better choices, including the Honda Pilot, Mazda CX-9 or Toyota Highlander or 4Runner.

The second-generation (1996-2004) Pathfinder debuted right when the SUV craze hit a fever pitch. A switch to carlike unibody construction (compared to the original truck-based model) afforded it significant gains in size, interior space and on-road agility, while shedding 200 pounds. The softer Pathfinder's unremarkable styling and wimpy engine (its V6 made just 166 hp) rendered it merely average within its crowded segment, though. A small backseat also made it less suitable for hauling children than some competitors.

Nissan followed a cosmetic update in 2000 with a much-needed engine upgrade in the form of its powerful VQ-series 3.5-liter V6. In the Pathfinder, it was good for an impressive 240 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The improvements added enough flavor to earn the Nissan Pathfinder two consecutive Edmunds.com Most Wanted awards, in 2001 and 2002.

Launched in 1986 for the 1987 model year, the original Nissan Pathfinder has roots that run deeper than most midsize SUVs. Initially, the Pathfinder was intended to appeal to the same youthful, active, mostly male buyers that Toyota appealed to with its 4Runner. Based on Nissan's compact pickup platform, the original Pathfinder looked macho and performed well off road, even though it was not terribly well equipped or spacious by today's standards. It wasn't very powerful either, even with the optional 3.0-liter V6. It was offered initially only in a two-door body style, later adding a four-door variant that ultimately became its only configuration in subsequent generations. Pathfinders were available with four- and six-cylinder engines, as well as rear- and four-wheel drive.

User Reviews:

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  Wish I had spent more time test driving - 2011 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Vivian JonesSmith - June 4 - 3:28 am

  I bought this vehicle used about a month ago - it is a 2011 Silver addition with 4WD - I use it daily for to/from work and have just taken my first long distance (5 hours) trip in it. My major issue is with interior space. I wanted an optional 3rd row, which this vehicle has, but if you want to bring groceries home - you cannot have the third row up. The second row is not much use except for storage, you could fit two small people, or children comfortably, but two full grown adults would have a hard time after 30 minutes. Especially if there is a full grown person in the front seat with the front seat back - it only gives about 8 inches of leg room to the second row. So basically I have a two person vehicle with 4 doors. There are very few storage compartments - so I have added a container to the back cargo area to hold the basic items I keep in a vehicle. The driver side seat does not have lumbar support (that I have found) there are multiple adjustments, but nothing that helps the lower back - the head rest juts forward more than is comfortable for my neck, so I find that if I am in the vehicle more than an hour, I am constantly adjusting the seat trying to find a comfortable position that supports my back and allows my neck to be at a comfortable angle. The radio controls are crazy - the radio is incorporated into the dash (so you have no option of ever replacing it) and you have to reach all the way across the middle of the vehicle to the passenger side to change the station - but the volume control is too near the driver - the heat/AC controls are between the volume knob and the station selection knob and I still find myself adjusting the temperature instead of the volume. There are controls on the steering wheel, but with the weird issues I am having with the radio and display, I cannot change the channel from the steering wheel if it is on XM. By the way - XM is not a visible option on the radio controls - you have to push the radio button twice and then you can access XM. I have had electrical issues with the radio - it gets stuck on a station and no matter what station I have it on when I turn off the vehicle - it turns on to the stuck station, with no volume - then it changed to another station it is stuck on. I cannot reprogram my stations - once the vehicle is turned off - they all reset to what was there before. I can change the station once the vehicle is on, but I have to adjust the radio every single time I get in. The display flashes bright then dim for no reason - I ll be driving down the road and the display flashes. There is no navigation and the display is hard to use. The temperature is very difficult to regulate - it goes from hot to cold to hot - and on the long trip I had to constantly adjust the temperature to keep the inside from being either too cold or too stuffy. If you try to use vent without AC - it blows hot like it is coming directly from the engine, so you still have to adjust the temperature to regulate the inside conditions. With all that said, I wanted a vehicle that could go off road for bike races and possibly pull a camper - in those two areas, the Pathfinder is great - awesome ground clearance and the tow package is for 6,000 lbs (though I have been advised to not tow to the max since the vehicle is older) Gas mileage is what I was expecting from reading other reviews - not the best but not the worst - I am averaging 16.5 MPG - on the tank it recommends supreme, but I cannot see a difference in MPG - though my son does say it will help with overall engine performance if the correct octane in used. If you are single and want a vehicle for off road and fun - the Pathfinder is great - if you want to take friends with you, your limit is one comfortably, you could take four, but the two in the back will not be happy after a while. I had the vehicle looked at by my garage and they said they had never seen of vehicle of this age in such good shape (mechanically) - not one single leak of any kind. So I hope the Pathfinder will make up in longevity for what it lacks in usable space and display use. Though I am already considering putting it up for sale.

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  Approaching 210,000 miles! - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Jeff - June 2 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car new in 2000 and have had it ever since. I came close to trading it in several times...Thank God I didnt. Till this day, it runs great, sounds great and looks great. Very minimal scratches, mostly because I dont mind hiking it across the parking lot to get to the store. Other then your basic wear & tear and routine maintenance, Ive had zero problems. Without question, the best vehicle Ive ever owned. The most expensive service I had was an oil leak from a seal that needed to be replaced between the engine and transmission (not sure what its called). That bill came in around $550 mostly because of the labor. Ill keep this car till it dies, its a keeper!

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  Great SUV! - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
  By hatchergirl86 - June 1 - 1:23 pm

  Love, love, love this vehicle! Great little SUV! Have owned it for about a year now and never had any real problems. The passenger window has never been able to roll down (power windows) and the switch for the cruise control broke, other than that, no engine problems at all! It is a little small for a family. Only fits 4 people comfortable, 5 is too tight. Four- wheeling is a blast! Overall I recommend this vehicle to anyone who wants a fun little car with a small family.

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  Great SUV - 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
  By C. Hernandez - May 29 - 2:00 am

  This is the best SUV Ive driven, wont drive any thing else but a NISSAN they are great vehicles.

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  great! - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By kelsey889 - May 28 - 10:00 am

  i love this car.

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  Great Value and Great Ride - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By kais48 - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Ive still yet to see a 4WD vehicle that surpasses my 2001 LE. The ride is incredibly smooth and carlike, with impressive acceleration. The interior is extremely comfortable and convenient, although the rear seat room is too limited. Gas mileage is rather poor, but what can you expect from an SUV? I have had many people express how impressed they are with my Pathfinder both from a value and luxury standpoint, and I agree - Nissan has made an exceptional vehicle that belongs in the "luxury" category.

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  Weekend Warrior - 2007 Nissan Pathfinder
  By msmiller406 - May 25 - 6:33 pm

  This vehicle was purchased new in 2007. Great for hauling kids around and all outdoor activities. (It was originally purchased for my wife, but I love it more and bought her an Altima. :)) Although this is a 2WD it takes me everywhere I need to go. It does fine on dirt roads and in pastures going to fishing and camping holes. I am getting around 21 mpg on the highway and around 15-17 in town. We also use this vehicle as our vacation wagon. Does great. We love it.

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  Nissan Reliabilty - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By ssjkyle31 - May 24 - 10:00 am

  I was torn between the 2001 model and the 2000 model. Good thing I got the 2000 model which runs on regular octane gas with gas price so high now. I consider myself a typical SUV user. Someone who will probably never take this SUV off the ashpalt pavement except for the dirt & gravel road I took between Nevada and California when there was a major sig alert on I15 and that was fun.

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  mixed feelings - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By ondro1977 - May 19 - 2:46 pm

  This Car looks, handles and feels great and in 2001 it was more powerful than 2001 Toyota 4Runner and more stylish. Engine got boosted to 240HP over very weak 168HP 3.3 liter. With that came a lots of MAF, O2,Crank position sensor failures. Use of premium fuel is more than recommended. Weak transmission and aggressive rust on under-body (save yourself and spray it prematurely if you can). Strut tower failures. Realistic fuel economy is 14city and 20 Hwy.

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  Best Bang for your Buck - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Will Mansi - May 17 - 10:13 pm

  For the money, its the best mid-size SUV out there. 270 hp is fun to drive with sleek lines and a tough look. 3rd row seating is a solid edition. I recommend spending a few extra bucks for the leather interior on the SE model. The SE has better lease packages and if you get the leather its virtually the same truck as the LE.