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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  Worst Vehicle Ive Ever Owned - 2007 Nissan Pathfinder
  By jem10 - November 1 - 6:34 am

  My family has owned many Nissan/Infiniti vehicles over the years and have loved them, until this one came along. We, along with many others, were faced with the dreaded transmission/radiator problem. We rebuilt the transmission, luckily had a warranty that paid for it. Then, 5 months later, the oil pump failed, which required a new timing chain tensioner along with many other simultaneous repairs, $1700 bill and 3 weeks in the shop. The TPMS light has been on for 1 year. I have had the system checked multiple times and the mechanics didnt know what was wrong with it. I have encouraged my entire family and all of my friends to choose something besides Nissans in the future.

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  FUN TO DRIVE AND LOOKS GREAT - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By BABOSA - October 31 - 10:00 am

  LETS SEE I LOCK AT THE HIGHLANDER,4RUNNER,ACURA,HONDA, BUT I USE TO OWN A ALTIMA LOVE NISSAN , DIDNT EVEN TEST DRIVEB THE PATHFINDER . LOOKE AT THE REVIEWS AND I FEEL IN LOVE. EVEN GOT A FRIEND TO BUY PATHFINDER.

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  Mother and Dog owner POV - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Happy Nissan Owner - October 31 - 5:53 am

  Pros: Rugged interior makes for a easier clean when you have dogs in the back. The whole back cargo area of my SE has a rubber/plastic type floor and walls that make dog hair in the vehical a lot more manageable. Doors open really wide and the doorway is nice and wide/tall (great for loading and unloading kids from car seats! Two sets of rear vents that help keep your kids/dogs at the same temperature as you (I hated in my Jeep GC SUV that I would be boiling in the front with the heat and my daughter would be freezing in the second row with no vents). 3 rows of seats are real handy if you ever are in a bind and need to move some extra kids. Backup camera is great with kids/dog

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  Transmission Issues... - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Mayra - October 29 - 10:00 am

  I to have a 2005 Pathfinder and like the other reviews on this site, I have had the same problems. The transmission is slipping and I just had to have a major repair with the coolant and fliud mixing together. There were no signs of this and suddenly while driving on the highway my car overheated. I also have the vibration of the car at certain speeds. Its awful that Nissan will not admit to the issue and resolve it. I have been telling Nissan (Meadowlands) about the vibrations since I purchased the vehicle and they just think its me. My mechanic indicated that he has never seen this happen. He couldnt believe that there were no warning signs either.

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  Impressive first month! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By jw7683 - October 24 - 2:00 pm

  I traded in a 97 Pathfinder (dubbed "old reliable") and I have been pleasantly surprised at the Pathfinders style and performance. The engine is powerful (Im saying this even though Ive still never taken it above 3500 rpm) and shifting is silky smooth. The interior styling is impressive and comfortable (SE Trim with comfort package). Entry into the vehicle is easier than typical SUVs - Ive got three kids who use the running boards to help (be aware - if youre not cognizant, you can easily soil your pant leg - as they collect dirt). Only negative is gas mileage - though the 21 gal. tank keeps refueling relatively infrequent. Storage cap. is flexible and I love the third row seats.

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  Great SUV - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
  By johninflorida - October 24 - 10:00 am

  The only thing I have done to this vehicle, other than routine maintanence, is try to get the wheel shake out at speeds around 60mph. This is a rock solid SUV that looks great and just drives and drives and drives. If you want a vehicle that is dependable and does just what it should, I would highly recommend it. Plus they look so good cleaned up.

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  Coolant leaking into transmission fluid - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By clausl - October 20 - 9:34 am

  This is a known issue with Nissan 2005 and 2006 vehicles. (Currently the subject of a class action lawsuit.) Coolant leaking into Transmission destroys transmission, computer controlling transmission and radiator. Average cost for fix is ~$7,500 warranty extension offered by Nissan doesnt cover many drivers as the issue seems to often extend beyond the extended warranty of 8yrs / 130,000km. Some vehicles are not covered despite being within these two parameters. Nissan refuses to say why some vehicles of that year/type are excluded.

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  great truck! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By tony - October 20 - 4:53 am

  after a lot of research and test drives i went with an 05 pathfinder. after 1 yr and 12k miles i know i made the right choice!! Ive had NO problems at all!! Plenty of power, great in the snow, nice stereo(get the Bose!!) fun to drive, overall a great truck!!!

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  Love, love, love, my Pathfinder! - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By JG-Alabama - October 19 - 2:00 am

  When I bought my Pathfinder, I felt on top of the world. It felt like a luxury car, but still gave me the height and capacity of an SUV. I dont use it for any heavyduty work, but I have been so glad to have it when moving furniture, kids, and friends around. Its fun to have friends get in and say, "Wow, this is really nice!" Not to mention, the leather seats are beautiful. I only have 2 complaints: the turn radius is pretty big--its tought to make u- turns, and the rear door is really heavy! Otherwise, its perfect.

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  Nissan Has Won Me Over!!! - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Michele S - October 17 - 10:00 am

  After driving "domestic" cars for 14 years, I dont think I will ever go back.Started with a 1995 Maxima SE and in a little more than 1 year, was into a Pathfinder. The reliability is bar none. I am so pleased with my truck that every time something new and hot comes out, I just look in the driveway at what I have. Love it. Think Ill keep it. It may be my 12 year olds first car in a few years and I have no doubt that even with over 100,000 miles, it will still be going strong! Thanks for building such a great vehicle.