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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  Nissan patchfinder 2005 - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Mark - December 30 - 3:40 pm

  The 2005 pathfinder is fun to drive and has a powerful engine. The gas mileage is better than I would have expected. I am getting 17.5 to 18 MPG and that is a combination of highway and city. The ride is nice and the interior is very comfortable. The third row seat is for small kids only. Adults will have a tight fit if they had to sit in the way back. When the back third row seats are down there is plenty of room for storage in the back.

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  reliable transportation - 1995 Nissan Pathfinder
  By 4xe4wd - December 30 - 2:00 am

  ive owned this car for 7yrs and besides change the oil and 1 tune-up i have not incurred any cost ohh yes 1 new battery this past summer if youre looking for a reliable 4wheel drive look at this

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  Personal - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By GMiller - December 30 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle has met all of my expectations as to design, functionality, dependability, and value.

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  Glad its mine - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Antoinette - December 28 - 3:43 am

  after looking around for a couple of months we found the pathfinder to be the best suv for the price. Living on an island with mountains and valleys can leave you limited as to where you can go but not anymore. I am very happy with my choice

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  Initial Quality Disappointments - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Steve Kuzma - December 25 - 9:00 am

  I went from an 02 Pathfinder to a new 05. I love the styling, the interior improvements, the performance and even the gas mileage (15-20mpg). Im extremely disappointed,however,in initial quality. It first started with a rattle somewhere in the dashboard which I have finally located. Then another spring like rattle under the dash which to date Ive been unable to find. About one week after taking delivery, a loud whine from underneath the hood developed. Sounded like a loose belt or even a bad waterpump. I finally called the dealer today to get the car in for all these nagging problems and it will be about 10 days before they can look at it. Hopefully the bugs can be knocked out!

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  Switched from Titan LE Truck to Pathfinder Platinum - 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
  By chaseco321 - December 23 - 5:10 pm

  Absolutely Love this vehicle. Bought 3 weeks ago, I average 25K miles a year, and so far it is wonderful with no problems. Does not have the power of my previous Titan V8, but for a V6 with a CVT Transmission, it does great for my needs. Researched Ford Explorer Limited and Pathfinder, mulled over all the blogs, comments and bottom line for me, the Price for the vehicle & all the Premium Platinum features verses the Ford Explorer Limited, along with the "trade Value" three years from now, Nissan won this buyer over again. Especially love the remote start and heated/cooled seats. So Far So Good!! 360 camera view also a neat feature!!

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  Excellent Car - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By lcplorbinati - December 21 - 5:34 pm

  I have had this vehicle for 5 years and since over 102,000 and after owning this one I would buy a Nissan again. No problems up to about 136k but I take responsibility for the major problems that could of been prevented with good preventative maintenance. The car has 141,800+ miles and has been through CA and driven from CA to NM and to few destinations in NM. I trust this vehicle to roll with me anywhere and I will even drive my family around in it. It also survived several big accidents with minimal cost and big damage. One big problem is the stock cd changer, no problem swapping out for aftermarket radio

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  Great car - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Moustapha - December 20 - 6:00 am

  I bought this car two weeks ago and I just love it. The driving is great, very classy and the car is well designed from inside and outside.

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  Reliable SUV - 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Matt - December 16 - 11:00 am

  I bought this SUV new in 2004 and Ive never had one problem with it. Ive only had to replace the normal things that wear. New belts, brakes, rotors, tires and a transmission fluid flush. Regular oil changes every 3-5k miles and not one problem! Very happy with this vehicle, it was our first Pathfinder and Id definitely buy another one.

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  Not bad - at all - 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Jan - December 7 - 5:46 pm

  Third Nissan in this household (Stanza, Maxima, and now Pathfinder. Got a good deal at end of year (October), so easy choice. It is a high profile vehicle (like any SUV), so does not like sidewind much. Does however like its gas.