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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Great SUV For The Money - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
By simon - August 2 - 7:20 amI was looking at the Lexus RX 350 for months along with other SUVs but I finally decided to get the 2008 SE Pathfinder. After looking at options and the price of the 08 Pathfinder I figured I could not go wrong with this purchase. There is a big difference between the 08 to the 07 so dont be fooled. I got the SE loaded out with the leather package and premium sound. I also got tint thrown in and went with the extended warranty with tire replacement. I have had it for about a week and love the car and the ride. If you get an SE model, make sure you get a cargo mat, the rubber tends to scratch up easily.
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PRETTY DAMN CLOSE TP PERFECT - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
By DANNAD - July 31 - 2:00 amWELL, I DROVE A LOWERED, 2 DOOR INTEGRA FOR 5 YEARS, THEN I DECIDED TO GET SOMETHING A LITTLE BIGGER. IM STILL TRYING TO GET USED TO ALL THE ROOM. ITS GOT THE PERFECT AMOUNT OF ROOM FOR A MONSTEROUS SYSTEM IN THE TRUNK, AND THATS WHAT MINES GONNA HAVE!!!! AND I HAVE HAULED ABOUT A 1600 LB LOAD NO PROBLEM, EVEN IN 2WHEEL DRIVE!
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Buy this - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
By FinalConculsion - July 30 - 10:00 amHappy with everthing, paid only 24800 for a 30300 SUV with rebate, also got the .9% financing for 3 year
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Great car - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
By Pathfinder 1 - July 30 - 10:00 amRides great. 240 horsepower really does the job!!! Pay up for the sunroof and leather packages. best misize SUV on the raod...
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great 2nd car..Love it! - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
By jeadie - July 27 - 11:56 pmI bought my 2002 Pathfinder on a whim 2 years ago when I had my Mercedes in for service. Other than the questionable gas mileage, the car is perfect. Very reliable, comfortable and plenty of power for my needs. I loved the way it looked and the amenities are awesome for car of its age. I only paid $9k for it with 72k miles and it was and is in excellent condition. Although we will keep primary cars which get better mileage, I plan to keep the Pathfinder in my fleet for as long as it will have me. So far, so good.
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Pathfinders great except for fuel cost - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
By Paige Young - July 24 - 11:26 amThe Pathfinder is sporty yet classy. It has quick acceleration, is easy to manuever, has great visability, comfort, style, reliability, is not too big, yet can carry a lot of cargo, and is fun to drive. Two cons only: I only get 17 miles per gallon in the city, and the CD player, which has been replaced once by Nissan, is very finicky. Other than that....it is an AWESOME vehicle.
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1998 Pathfinder 4x4 - 1998 Nissan Pathfinder
By buckeyes3108 - July 22 - 4:19 pmThis is a good truck if its taken care of. Previous owner lied about what he said he did to it, like regularly changing the oil. Took it to get fluids flushed a week after I got it and my mechanic said that was some dirty oil. I bought it with 175k miles on it for $2000 and Ive put $3000 into it. New tires, brakes all around, new front axle, bearings repacked all the way around, rear shocks, alternator, battery and a few other maintenance repairs. Still needs front struts and catalytic converter. Has an oil leak. No rust. Other than that, I really love the truck. Took it 4-wheeling today in the snow. Fun. Giving the truck to my nephew when he turns 16. Hope he gets a lot of use out of it.
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Love My Pathfinder - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
By DJ Arrington - July 21 - 10:00 amI love my pathfinder. I just wish that it got better gas mileage and with the prices of rising gas i would consider trading it in on something more economic but it was my first car and i love it. I would highly recommend this car to someone that was looking for a very reliable SUV that looks good and drives good and has the reputation that nissans have.
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Best Value in Class - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
By - July 19 - 10:00 amWe tested the X5 (gorgeous machine for those with lots of cash and tiny suitcases), Envoy SLT & Trailblazer LTZ (when will American cars dispose of flimsy plastic class-less interiors), Honda Pilot(mini-van in wolf-attire, but a very nice car for 30Gs - but no XM, no heated seats?, no moonroof? available), Anyway, we got a loaded LE with XM, brush gaurds front and rear, and every option save for the entertainment system, and only paid 32gs. Over $4,000 off of sticker. Great value and great car. Fast too.
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First Pathfinder - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
By Jean - July 16 - 10:26 amLove the space of the pathfinder. Third row a plus. I have always owned Chevy SUV, after having this I wont go back. Engine noise a little hard to get used to-reminds me of a 4 cylinder sound. But it is great on the get go, sometimes a little too much! My pathfinder has every option available and the controls are easy to learn. Comfortable seats and lots of head and leg room.
