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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I think Nissan will sell a lot of these - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
By Fred - April 27 - 2:56 pmI have had my 2005 Nissan Pathfinder for about a month now. It came with the Comfort, Premium, and DVD packages. Initially, I wasnt totally sold on the Comfort and Premium packages, but now am glad I went with them. They add very nice features. So far I love the way this truck drives. The kids love the third row, the DVD player, and the ability to see out the windows.
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Very nice SUV - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
By Chris - April 26 - 1:36 amIm from the bay area, I was ready to buy a Toyota Highlander but thank god I saw this SUV online, I went to test drive it and I liked a lot. Dont get me wrong the highlander is nice but for just a couple of more dollars I got a better SUV overall. You can feel the power on it, just had it for almost a week and I love it.
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Best Bang for your buck out there. - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
By Zak - April 20 - 4:40 amI cant say enough about the Pathfinder. I read all of the reviews out there. The interior room is smaller than you think, but unless you lug around 4 63" adults all the time, youll be fine. XM radio is great and DOES display the song information, you just have to set it up right. Who cares about fuel economy...its an SUV! If youre buying it for fuel economy youre not buying the right vehicle. As far as SUVs go, I think the fuel economy is great. Car is priced extremely competitively and has great features. My only complaint thus far is that the sunroof and steering wheel controls do not light up at night. This truck drives like a dream and I have no regrets about my purchase.
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My First Truck - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
By Dave04 - April 18 - 10:00 amI have always been a sports coupe guy, but since my Dodge Avengers trans. blew I knew I needed something bigger and foriegn; end result-the Pathfinder. This SUV has been an absolute delight to own. It has had little to no problems other than a sticky accelerator and a broken skid plate. At 73000 miles, it is still driving like new.
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Reliable! - 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
By kilaga - April 18 - 10:00 amThis SUV has been a very reliable vehicle. I dont own the 4-wheel version but I live on a rough road and I drive the heck out of it and it has held up well. I have been happy with it, it gets decent mileage and it has zip when I need it. I would recommend this vehicle to others.
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I really like it...but... - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
By jhuck - April 14 - 7:53 pmI bought my 01 Pathfinder in 04 with 39,000 miles on it. I now have almost 113,000 miles. First let me say that I love the engine. It revs quick and has the power of a small v8. Overall it is holding up well but Ive had some issues. They are: 1 - 2 mass air flow sensors have crapped (when this goes the vehicle goes into safe mode and rev past 2000 rmp) 2 - 1 O2 sensor 3 - the drivers power seat has stopped going back and forth (im living with it as it stuck in my position) 4 - the stock Clarion 6 disk changer stinks. I replaced it with aftermarket single disk unit. (I will never buy Clarion) 5 - Rear defroster only defrosts half the window. 6 - tranny leak that went away.
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Omg, how did this happen? - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
By winson - April 14 - 1:18 pmI bought this really good Nissan Pathfinder SE, but 5 years later I regreted it. Just when I was done financing this car and when the warranty was done, the car broke down and I had to bring the car to a friend who inspects and fixes cars. He inspected it and said the "water boxes" water went into the transmissioner and they had to fix it and they gave me a crappy 2002 Honda Accord. After 2 weeks, I got my car back. (Yesterday) And I paid him $4700 dollars and I drove her home. But at 4:00, I went to wash the car and clean the engine but when I saw the transmissioner and the water box, I saw that nothing was replaced or anything. It was all the same. So I just wasted $4700 for nothing.
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Just a perfect vehicle... - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
By SpadedAce - April 13 - 2:23 pmI have had my 2005 Pathfinder for exactly 1 year next week and it still feels like I bought it yesterday! I love it. Very comfortable (drove it from south Florida to Maryland and back in 4 days), very sporty (hauls my kayaks and dirtbikes around like its nothing), pulls a 5000 lb boat very well (not underpowered or feeling like the boat is pulling me), the sound system is amazing, and I have not had 1 problem with it yet! They really are fun to drive in-town, on the beach, on the highway(lots of get up and go when you need it) and they are really great looking. They also have all the creature comforts you could ask for including 3rd row seating and a first-aid kit included! Get one!
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Best Bang for the Buck - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
By Guy - April 13 - 7:46 amPurchased our 05 Pathfinder in July 2005. $26,000 out the door. A lot of truck for the money. The 4.0 V6 delivers plenty of power. So smooth, you cant even feel the tranny shift. As far as comfort, no complaints here. I had one problem in four years. The belt tentioner had to be replaced. I love the looks and secure ride of this vehicle. I will most likely buy another one. Also looking at the Suzuki Equator (Pick-up). This vehicle is a twin to the Nissan Frontier. Suzuki give the better warranty.
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Love My New Pathfinder - 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
By Lovez It - April 11 - 7:36 amI have had this 2015 Pathfinder for about a month. I just love it! It is a comfortable , luxurious ride, and used 2 tanks of gas, average 21 miles per gallon. I have been driving a Chevrolet Avalanche for the past 4 1/2 years, that averaged 12 mpg. We already have a 2014 Pathfinder in the family, and liked it so well, we traded for another. Nissan got his ride right!
