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 Buy 2006 Pathfinder S - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By TonyA - May 15 - 4:46 am

  This is my first SUV. I love the ride and the power the v6 provides. Car feels heavy and well built. Love the third row option, its tight but what do you expect. Price was also an issue, and i think its the best bang for your buck as far as looks and performance. I also like the 6000 lbs tow capacity.

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  Transmission Problems - 2014 Nissan Pathfinder
  By unklbuk - May 14 - 2:45 pm

  we just turned over 13,000km and the transmission failed. The Nissan dealer outlined they ordered a new one and would install it at no charge. Good deal. Problem- They put a remanufactured transmission in a brand new vehicle. BAD BAD BAD. Check the warranty documents as they are allowed to do this under their manufacturers warranty. I cannot believe that you spend 50K on a new vehicle and when you have a problem they put a USED transmission in it and call it new....

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  Go Get One! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By MF - May 14 - 5:20 am

  The best thing about this web site is the consumer reviews, so thank you to all who shared their experiences before me (it helped). The new Pathfinder is Awesome! Knew it was for me when I got in for the test drive. Paid invoice price. Have had it for a few days now and even got to play in the snow. 4x4 is great. I checked out Explorer, Durango, Trail Blazer, Hilander, Pilot but you really get more for your money with the most powerful V6 in the mid sized class. The base model has plenty of everything I wanted in an SUV. Very roomy up front. All the features I wanted came standard. I feel very comforable and safe. Go Get one!

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  Happy for the most part - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By T-Bone - May 8 - 6:30 pm

  This vehicle has one big issue: Oxygen sensors! There are four, and they need to be replaced anytime after 50,000 miles. All four have been replaced at a cost of 135 dollars each. Besides that, I love it. Great ride, handling, steering. Great BOSE stereo. Some loose trim around doors, but otherwise good solid build quality. AUTO 4WD is a nice extra on the LE.

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  1997 Nissan Pathfinder SE - 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
  By ZoHootie - May 8 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car with 35,000 miles. The pathfinder is the smoothest riding SUV I have ever been. The ride comfort is second to none. At 60,000 miles had to have the brakes replaced, front & rear shocks replaced. At 68,000 miles there was a funny noise in the front end. Had to replace the sway-bar link. Now at 76,000 miles I have to have the brakes replaced again. Overall the car runs well and I would recommend it to anyone else, but the brakes and struts/shocks need to be replaced more frequently than normal. Also, the engine has very poor acceleration but is reliable.

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  Hot rod suv - 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Firststrike - May 8 - 10:00 am

  The V6 powering the newest Pathfinders is awesome to say the least, especially when using mid-grade to premium gasoline. It is comfortable even at the highest speeds and is always under complete control. Only thing I would ask Nissan to adjust would be the drivers seat. It simply will not slide far enough rearward. Oh yes, we Americans have slightly larger feet than the Japanese, and I would like to see a greater distance between the accelerator and the brake pedal. Ive come close on numerous occassions to slamming into a car or object in front or the rear of my vehicle, due to my foot hitting the accelerator and brake at the same time

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  Excellent truck for the money - 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
  By SteveBoulder - May 4 - 2:00 am

  We bought the truck about 2 years ago and were really impressed by the reliability and workmanship. The interior design is prefect, roomy and comfortable, being a big guy I find the seats to have great side and thigh support. We got a loaded XE which is no different from a pricier SE. Its an able off-roader, particularly when you install 265/70/R15 All-terrain tires on it. Breaking stops are excellent. Our 5-speeder is much faster to take off than the automatic models. Huge cargo capacity, excellent handling. And it looks good too, much more athletic than those boxy Tahoes, Blazers, 4Runners, or Cherokees.

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  Good All Around Performer - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Tundrathunder - April 30 - 3:03 am

  We had every intention of buying another 4Runner, unfortunately, due to the stupidity of the 3rd row seat design by Toyota in the 4Runner (the seats do NOT fold down but fold over & hang on the rear walls causing blind spots on both sides) we had to look at the Pathfinder. After our test drive and research, we found that even with the 3rd row seat up, I could not only fit my golf clubs in the cargo area, but a double stroller as well. Neither was possible in the 4Runner with the seats up or hanging. Power & comfort are better in the Pathfinder and also has a slightly better ride. Fit & finish are by far better in the 4Runner. If you have issues with gas mileage, buy a car for Petes sake!

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  OK, not great - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By catcher10us - April 29 - 8:56 pm

  First let me say that I have had Isuzu SUVs since 88, 2 troopers and a rodeo and they were the most reliable cars I have ever owned. I got the pathfinder because Isuzu left the market. Overall, I have about 43k miles on it and use if for business, everyday. Had a problem early on with oxygen sensors, dealer replaced, not a big deal. The brakes have been really poor on this truck, warped rotors at 24k miles, not covered past 18k miles. This is a lease, so not rushing to repair. Other than that, the pathfinder is comfortable, great in the snow and has plenty of power, highway and in town and a ton of room. Overall, I cant find anything better at the price, so I would do it again on a new one

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  Starts with "L" ends with "emon" - 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
  By mpom - April 28 - 5:44 am

  My 2013 Nissan pathfinder has had transmission problems for months and I have repeatedly given Nissan the opportunity to fix it and have had the transmission replaced once. Yesterday it stalled in the middle of an intersection with traffic coming in both directions and my two children in the car. I will not drive this car again. I paid $43,000 for a car I am afraid to drive or put my children in. Nissan needs to correct these problems and stop putting people at risk.