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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  Love it! - 2007 Nissan Pathfinder
  By pbyeerts - June 19 - 4:56 pm

  Ive had my 07 Pathfinder for a week and already been on a 500 mile vacation with it. Great ride and good gas mileage for a vehicle this heavy and powerful. My favorite thing: this super rough and tough SUV drives very smooth, like a high quality sedan, no rough edges. Acceleration is super smooth and the ride is a dream. I feel great sitting high above everyone else, and am safe and snug with wraparound air bags. Pathfinder has some of the best safety measures in the auto industry. I also love turning between 2WD and 4WD to save on gas.

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  Cant beat it - 1995 Nissan Pathfinder
  By infrared41 - June 17 - 2:00 am

  Bought one with 94,000 miles and have put 40,000 more on it. Not a single problem other than normal wear and tear. Great ride for an SUV. Real workhorse. Great 4wd. Kinda boxy and ugly but thats what makes it cool. Looks like it was made to be driven in poor conditions. An outstanding vehicle. Highly recommended.

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  More room in a car - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By hunterbaby - June 14 - 6:40 pm

  We bought our Pathfinder only 9 months ago and traded it in for a regular car!! There isnt that much room in the Pathfinder for two adults and two kids with car seats. Never had a problem with it. When the kids get bigger - might consider buying another. They would have to do something about the gas mileage though!!

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  Pathfinder Rear Seat Belts - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By mq12518 - June 14 - 10:00 am

  Have had the 2005 pathfinder for a few days. Love the truck, the look the ride. One major gripe - using the lap/shoulder belt for my kids booster setas is near impossible. The seat belt receptor is too short to easily engage when standing outside the vehicle. Nissan (or someone!) needs ot offer a short 3" - 4" extension ASAP. The extension could be easily disengaged and stored if one needed to fold the seat(s) down. Third row receptors are longer - maybe thats the way to place the kids until a remedy is found. I have surfed a few websites for aftermarket extensions - no luck yet.

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  New 05 PathFinder Fun To Drive - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Pgh Kid - June 14 - 10:00 am

  Just bought 05 Pathfinder SE 4x4 - paid $1,900 under $30,200 MSRP - had to negotiate quite a bit - Dealer tried to add $695 Dealer Mark-up which I flatly refused - Very powerful engine with great low end torque - can light up the back tire - handles very nice, smooth ride, classy interior compared to others - 3rd seat is tight - nice body lines - bought Granite color -

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  excellent - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By maNDYLYNNN - June 14 - 10:00 am

  i love driving this vehicle, it has great steering, great room, and great look, when you drive it, ts as if, youre floating on a cloud.

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  Transmission shifting - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By buyingdummy - June 11 - 4:10 pm

  Bought the Pathfinder. It shifts on time, but is rough between 37 and 42 mph. Not everytime. Ive had the SUV for about 2 weeks and like it otherwise. Dont consider this problem enough to reconsider.

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  We love this car - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Chris - June 10 - 5:50 am

  Have owned this since March 2005. After doing a lot of research and test driving various SUVs, we settled on the Pathfinder. The new model of the pathfinder is fantastic. It has so much more room and power than my wifes 93 and her brothers 98! Recalls/Problems: so far have had 2 recalls: Tow hitch electrical something or other, and the vehicle stability control chip. Also have had a malfunctioning left rear passenger window switch and a persistent squeaking in the brakes. Dealer has replaced front and rear brake pads under warranty with no issues--except my time being wasted- and problem now appears to be fixed.

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  It is a LEMON - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Hate this car! - June 8 - 4:03 am

  Previous 1996 pathfinder owner for 13 yrs.Traded for a 2008 model-it is plastic junk. Started rattling 5 wks after purchase: windows,dash,inside AC vents makes loud noise,hatch closes so hard glass shakes and rear inside panel is dangling/rattling due to rear door, rear camera wont work when it rains, steering column is going to fall off in my lap one day, paint so thin a fingernail can scratch it, rear view mirror falls down but Nissan wont replace it. Nissan says there is a lot of plastic and I should "learn to live with the noise"! Nissan Corp has gone downhill in the quality of vehicles.

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  Best Car I Ever Owned - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Elnur - June 6 - 6:20 pm

  I have driven this car across the continent U.S., no problems through rain, snow, Ice or dust. Have had zero problems since owning it. I hope to own this car forever, perhaps an unrealistic goal, but that is my view.