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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  happy off roader - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Lisa Overbaugh - March 17 - 10:50 pm

  traded in my hyundai santa fe. the pathfinder is a way more capable and comfortable vehicle. very smooth shifting, unlike santa fe. alot of power for v6 and roomier too.

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  ok - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By roco - March 17 - 5:00 pm

  very rough suspension...almost like driving a sports car...good acceleration but poor suspension...very bumpy.

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  Very pleased - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By ingleberg - March 16 - 7:30 am

  I traded in an Infiniti G35 Coupe since I needed more passenger room. My Pathfinder actually accelerates better! I considered the Infiniti FX35, but the Pathfinder is such a better value. The sound system is incredible (love the MP3 playback), and the navigation system is easy to use. Almost immediately had a problem with a loud noise in the rear A/C -- dealer found loose insulation. New model... these things happen. Highly recommended!

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  Still going strong - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By chuckb - March 9 - 6:20 pm

  I now have around 98K on this truck. I bought it in 2003 with 23K. Overall, it has been very reliable and comfortable, but the repair bills have been adding up. I guess thats to be expected with any nine year old vehicle. Did need the exhaust system from the converter back replaced twice. Also had to go for rotors once and recently did the timing belt and water pump. The only real surprise as far as repairs was that the wheel bearings became scorched and had too much play. They were expensive as there are two sets in the front. The bearings, seals, races and a sway bar linkage was almost $1000, more than the timing belt and water pump. Still, it has never failed to start or stranded me.

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  Transmission problems - 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
  By sygriff - March 9 - 6:44 am

  I would not recommend the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder. Wait until they get all the bugs out. I started having problems with the transmission a few days after buying the Pathfinder. Took it back in to the dealer but they could not find anything wrong with it. A month or so later I get a recall notice about the transmission. Went in for the "fix"...and it began acting up on the way home, which means the"fix" did not work. I live 1.5 hours from the dealership and I am taking it in for the third time after the recall "fix". Dealership never can find anything wrong with it, but they only drive it around the block...no wonder. Very, very disappointed and now stuck with it.

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  primus - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By primus - March 8 - 2:00 am

  excellent vehicle with great handling and love that four by four when needed.

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  primus - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By primus - March 8 - 2:00 am

  Excellent vehicle, good looks and handling very reliable

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  The perfect choice - 2011 Nissan Pathfinder
  By redg - March 7 - 4:48 pm

  we bought a 3800# travel trailer and my Isuzu Rodeo just wasnt quite up to the task of towing it. I wanted a powerful V-6 with comfort. Got this car from a dealer (it was the salesmans wifes car) with 6300 miles. Ride is pretty stiff and busy but better than the Rodeo. Step on the gas and youre GONE!. It tows the trailer very well and gets good fuel mileage doing so. We spent 3 weeks on the road last year, up and down some extremely steep roads without a problem. My one complaint was the standard radio was terrible. I replaced with one from Crutchfield and now love everything about this car.

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  Fun, Fast, Tough!! - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Fred - March 6 - 12:56 pm

  Sold My Crew Cab for the Pathfinder.. And for once I feel like I got my moneys worth. It has all the features I need.. ride, handling, looks.. etc..

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  Its an OK suv but a Good Deal - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Chris - March 6 - 3:30 am

  Well, after having went through the process of suv shopping, my wife decided that she liked the Pathfinder the most our. Its an LE with all options except Nav or Sat radio. After owning it for a few days, we have agreed that we should have also included the Nav. We negotiated a great price. Sticker was $37,450, we settled at $33,900, which was about $600 below factory invoice. The interest rate was 4.49%. So, good luck. Its a ok vehicle. The fact that the gas mileage is poor coupled with the fact that premium unleaded is suggested leads me to believe that the posted yearly gas cost is a low figure. The door construction is poor, one can see the, what I believe are brace lines in the panel