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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  Dang good buy. - 1995 Nissan Pathfinder
  By ikyrydr - January 15 - 2:43 pm

  I bought the car for my wife at some used car place in Jan 04. I was forced to replace the starter and belts in Nov 07, and a pulley in Dec 07. Other than that all work was routine maintenance or by choice. I have taken the car on (3) 2,000 mile round trips to CO without a problem. I have also taken the car on some pretty serious four wheeling trips for a stock car and it also did extremely well. The 4 wheel dive does great on the roads too, I drove over Vail & Eisenhower pass in a blizzard at 55 mph with ease!

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  Awesome SUV with power - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By mark324 - January 11 - 10:00 am

  By far the Nissan Pathfinder is a true SUV. Plenty of comfort and style.

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  Another solid Pathfinder - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By DJH - January 9 - 9:06 am

  5 months and 7,000 miles I still love my Pathfinder. Only routine maintenance thus far. Great improvement over my 2000 Pathfinder.

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  rattle box - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By steve - January 9 - 7:46 am

  I bought my v8 pathfinder used. I was sold on the cheap price and options and I liked the V8. However, I was quickly disappointed. It started to rattle right away. The dash and door pannles are very cheap. I was also disappointed with the ground clearance it had with the bumpers and overhangs. It is not an off road vehicle! I went and traded it in on a new xterra and that was even a bigger mistake. Brand new and it rattles and squeaks. I am disappointed with Nissan. They have went down hill in quality. I will never buy a nissan again. I hope other readers will read this and not make the same mistake.

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  Most dog friendly SUV in its class - 2007 Nissan Pathfinder
  By brooke meoli - January 7 - 7:33 pm

  I did a lot of online research and physical comparisons of SUVs of this size and without a doubt the Pathfinder is the best SUV for dog owners. With the 3rd row seat down, you can fit a large kennel either way. All rear seats fold completely flat. Its the only SUV that has rear ventilation in the ceiling (2 sets) so there is adequate airflow to the back. Most of the other SUVs’ vents are on the back of the front console so that once the second row seats are down the vents are blocked. It has good entry height with the hatch open, unlike my ex-Volvo XC 90 with its tailgate/ hatch combo. Also the hatch window opens. Looks great in and out and great sound system - my best SUV yet!

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  tough truck - 1995 Nissan Pathfinder
  By coucoui6 - January 3 - 11:13 pm

  I really like my suv, no way near top ten by todays standards but considering that this is 95, its great. The truck is very capable for offroading and towing use (within limitation). Dont tow something that out weights the truck... big safety issue. But as for offroad climbing, its very fun. My Pathy is pretty stock and I can climb most moderate level trails in socal area. I only have LSD and not lockers.

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  Id get better mileage with a Hummer!!! - 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Lisa Colache - January 1 - 10:52 pm

  I have never owned a Nissan and decided to try one out and the 22 miles to the gallon, I figured I had nothing to lose. Boy was I wrong!! This is the biggest gas guzzler I have EVER owned!! 22 miles to the gallon?? Who rigged this thing. I get 13 / 14 city possibly 15 on a good day, and 18/ 19 on highway. What a joke this thing is!! CVT is designed to give me better gas mileage, pffffttt. I questioned the dealership and their response was" Well, it has to go through its break-in period" I have never in my life heard of this so I went home and googled it. Well, some people believe this to be true, I still think its BS, as I have passed the so called " Break - In period of 1,000 miles and the sucks ass gas mileage continues. Anyone else have this problem????

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  Great but popping noise! Help - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By vrjack - December 28 - 10:00 am

  I havens had any major problems since purchasing my Pathfinder in 2007, but this clicking noise it getting to me! Has anyone else had this problem? Was it fixed? I took it to the dealership for oil changes and I was sure to mention it every time. Its noticeable when I am coming to a stop or slowly backing up. The best way to describe it...it sounds like the little toy lawnmower with the balls inside that pops up as the child pushes it! Yeah, that popping sound more so than clicking. They said that Nissan hasnt recognized it as a problem at least the las time I asked about a year ago. I havent had any problems driving it or anything.

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  Great SUV that drives like a car - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Forti - December 24 - 2:00 am

  This SUV has it all a great interior and enough power to statisfy all.

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  Pathy or Pilot? - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By David Lei - December 23 - 10:00 am

  For new SUV buyers, you probably are thinking Honda Pilot coming out in 06/02. Well, I do love Honda (I have a civic), but I think Pathy will be my choice even I seldom go-off road. Pathy has better balance of everything for a SUV comparing to Pilot. I dont have any problems for 37,000 miles now. Great SUV for its below 30K price. Im a faculty member in mechanical engineering.