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 Value - 2007 Nissan Pathfinder
  By JJS - October 21 - 3:16 pm

  I was totally blown away by this vehicle, for the money it is the best value out there. And the fit and finish of the SUV is incredible.

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  Great truck - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By mouseparty - October 12 - 10:16 am

  I really enjoy this truck. It was extremely well thought out. It is so luxurious, I forget that it is also an offroad vehicle. The nav and dvd are great!

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  05 SE Off-Road 4x4 - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By chris - October 10 - 1:13 pm

  Price per pound this vehicle is hard to beat if your a growing family or just need a bigger vehicle. The new 4.0L V-6 feels more like a V-8 than a V-6, yet is lite on fuel. The MPG est. posted by Nissan seem to be modest @ 22/25, mine has 500miles on it < still tight/unseated> and already showing 23.4 city MPG in constant stop and go.

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  the pathfinder - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By bigtard - October 7 - 5:50 am

  Ive had my pathfinder for about a month now and i love it. The only downside that i can think of would be the gas mileage. Other than that my frieds love it since i put the DVD entertainment system in it. I have had no problems with my pathfinder so far and i hope it will continue to be that way. So to whoever is looking for a awsome midsize SUV this should definitely be on your list

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  7 years and still going - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By mikeh - October 6 - 5:20 am

  Bought new in 02. Have had to put very little money in it even with 125000+ miles. Drove it like I stole it in NC Beaches, Western MD Snow, and torrential downpouring T storms. This thing can handle the abuse. Well worth the money and cant see trading it in anytime soon. CD Changer is temperamental, has some CDs hostage now, but overall I cant complain.

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  Just bought it but i love it already! - 1995 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Nicole - October 4 - 11:50 pm

  I just bought my pathfinder two days ago it has a little over two hundred and ten thousand miles on it. I work at a car dealership and they tell me the car is in excellent shape, its a 5speed manual, it shifts and drives great! the only thing it needs is one brake calipor and the cv joints in the front. But overall this car is a perfect 10! If you want a great truck that is dependable no matter how many miles you have on it this is the truck for you! I know I really love it, and ill be sure to reccomend it to anoyone!

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  Great SUV - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Cynthia CA - October 4 - 10:00 am

  This SUV is great in every way possible. Purchased this car in 2007, the car has 40,000 miles on it, the only problem is the tire pressure sensor and was replaced by the dealer in, less than 20 min for free because I have 6 years warranty or 75,000. I traded my pathfinder for 2010 maxima to get better mileage. Sure enough the next morning returned the maxima and got my truck back. The ride and the confidence you have when you drive this truck make it worth the extra money for the gas. I love this truck and after what happened I appreciate it even more.

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  bad car! bad car! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By venting67 - October 3 - 8:04 pm

  This car is RIDICULOUS!!! I bought this car used with only 36,000 miles, if that. This car has broken down soooo many times that I am both surprised and disappointed that the government has not stepped in and reprimanded Nissan. Other than normal maintenance, I have spent greater than $3000 in major repairs. I am soo over this car and will be trading it as soon as possible.

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  What a beast - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By DK - October 2 - 12:53 pm

  I bought this vehicle used after I wrecked my 99 4Runner and I have not regretted the purchase. It now has 107k and Ive really only had to replace the rear muffler because of rust (I had to replace other things but I was the cause of the other things I replace). It drives amazing and has plenty of power, well a lot more power then my 4Runner. I love to go offroading and this vehicle has aced everything that I have thrown at it. It rides comfortably on the highway and maintaining a certain speed is easy due to its potent v6 engine. Towing is easy though its only rated at 3500 lb for the 5 speed manual. I am hoping to keep this vehicle until it dies!!

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  Nissan Pathfinder 2002 LE - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By lms5574 - September 29 - 10:00 am

  I cant complain about the car itself, I know it would consume a lot of gas. Dont buy an SUV if you think you will compete with a Corolla. Nissan Sales and Service is not the greatest, but hopefully you wont have to spend much time with them, the less the better. A great car for a little too high price, but I am still happy with it.