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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  A Real SUV w/Looks Too! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Ron-Independence, KS - August 14 - 9:13 am

  A true SUV. Looks good too! Ride is fine, the handling is amazing. Took 1 road trip to discover that this is an excellent handling vehicle. Ammenities are nice, but I do have my issues with it ... none serious, mostly my preferences. Let me back track, a lot of peoples preferences I assume. Recommended for its quality, styling and very powerful engine. Never ceases to amaze me how smaller vehicles believe they can "blow by" this iteration of the PathFinder. This thing came quite literally move you quickly and under control. To conclude on this point, if you dont want to be passed by the majority of vehicles you will not be OR at the very least you can keep up!

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  Good SUV - 1998 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Sean - August 14 - 3:46 am

  I bought this used at 68K and currently have 135K on it. It runs well and Ive had no major issues. Everything I have fixed I would consider it maintenance with most being done after 100K. Starter, alternator, water pump, timing belt, brakes, shocks, struts, tires, exhaust. Has a "tick" in the engine at colder temps but goes away. The brakes are "grabby" but it could be the calipers going.

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  Beat a path to this LE! - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Richard Spafford - August 13 - 11:16 pm

  Excellent vehicle. Only have 1,000 miles on it, but the build quality, ride, and handling are just great. Got it for $500 below invoice and 4.2% lease interest rate for 39 months. Were coming from 9 years of Grand Cherokee V8s, so I have to admit that I miss the power a bit, but its all right. I recommend premium gas for more punch and better mileage, but it runs fine on regular. If youve owned Nissans (this is our 4th, plus many test drives), you know they have a certain feel or personality that is not as plain vanilla as Toyota and Honda. This is true of the Pathfinder LE too. Fine vehicle.

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  Better than I expected - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By drugdealen - August 13 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I just bought our LE 4x4 3 days ago, and we are very satisfied with our decision. For us, it was down to the Pathfinder and the Pilot. My wife favored the Pilot because the on- road ride quality is a little better than the Pathfinders. However, we both feel that the Pathfinders interior is much more luxurious than the Pilots. I was board looking at, and driving the Pilot. I mean,it will probably have better resale b/c it is a Honda, but I would much rather be seen in the Pathfinder. The wood trim with the tan leather looks great - esp with the creamy white exterior paint. Very upscale - moreso than some of the Infiniti QX4s I have seen.

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  Nothing compares to this - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By jjy520 - August 11 - 1:26 am

  Purchased few days ago and words just cant express what this SUV actually is... Youve got to have one to believe! I wish I had the DVD entertainment but couldnt find one with it in the color I chose: Avalanche.

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  The Iron SUV - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By FlipFlop - August 10 - 8:03 pm

  I bought this vehicle with 15k miles on it and currently have 257k miles logged. Other than the usual wear and tear that all cars through this one has performed fantastically well. Mileage is 17 mpg city/hwy/4wd it doesnt matter. It is comfortable to drive and has plenty of get up and go for freeway driving and great stability when off road. The majority of my driving is highway and this vehicle will cruise at 75-80 and never miss a beat.

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  New Pathfinder Owner - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By newpathyowner - August 8 - 4:33 am

  I was looking for a bigger suv than my 04 Suzuki XL-7 and so far Im glad I chose the Pathfinder. Ive only had it for a week, but no major complaints. It rides very well, hardly any road noise, a lot of power and it looks good. So far, so good, so very, very good!

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  The Beast - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Nissan Pathfinder - August 4 - 4:00 pm

  I dont think I have had more fun driving a vehicle than our Pathfinder (and I have been driving for over 40 years). The cargo space is great yet when needed will hold 7 people. I have had 6 cyclinder vehicles before but this is the strongest one I have driven. This is my first Nissan and I am real pleased with it. We considered buying a Toyota Highlander because I have owned several Toyotas and was pleased with it. But the Pathfinder was to us in a class of its own. I highly recommend this.

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  Great vehicle, very reliable - 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
  By matthans - August 4 - 9:26 am

  Bought new in 2004 and never a problem yet. I maintain normal wear and tear items (Brakes, belts, fluids, battery & oil) and nothing seems to beak. Going to drive this truck to its grave.

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  A Great SUV - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By John Hill - August 4 - 6:16 am

  I thoroughly enjoy our Pathfinder to date. I, like others, test drove about every competitor SUV and came away buying the 05 Pathfinder. The third row is really only for children or people with short legs. The second row has ample room. I have read a lot of criticism concerning the stock cd player (not the bose) and I have no complaints. It sounds fine to me.