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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Like my PF LE but... - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
By Kinta - June 29 - 2:00 amLove the size of the PF as its l&w are comparable to most midsize cars. Acceleration is good. Steering is secure. Handling great with the AUTO feature. Fun to fishtail in RWD mode. The interior is better than other non- luxury SUVs. It gets bouncy. Some squeaks and rattles, but most fixed. Nissan Customer service is poor. Consider a 1 year old Infiniti, especially in LA, where name plates count. Also the warranty is 1 year longer and the service is excellent
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Overall a good vehicle - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
By HebrewDoc - June 28 - 2:56 amI replaced my 1997 GMC Yukon with my 2001 Pathfinder SE. I got it used with 42,000 miles and now I have 96,000 on it. I use it for daily commuting and deer hunting. It goes off-road like a mountain goat. It is much smaller than the Yukon but handles all my hunting stuff pretty well (I have a hitch haul for the deer). It rides smoothly on the highway and handles well. My only disappointment has been the unreliability of the sensors. It has 3 oxygen sensors, and I have replaced each one ($350 a pop). The mass flow sensor also went out ($550). Fairly bullet-proof other than that. I intend to keep it for the foreseeable future.
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Old - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
By Tara - June 27 - 3:23 amI bought my Nissan Pathfinder two year old. Its now almost 2005 and I still have not had many proglems wiht it. The most major issue to me is the seat has just started ripping from normal wear. Overall this has been a great truck. When I do get a new vehicle I hope to purchase a Pathfinder again. Theyre awesome.
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Love my Pathfinder - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
By greeneyedellen - June 23 - 10:00 amI can do so much more with my Pathfinder than I ever could with any other car. We love to fish and camp and have been able to get to new spots with it that we could not get to in any car. We have had a lot of rain in the Northeast this year and it has gotten me out of deep mud several times. The gas mileage is so-so, but not bad compared to other SUVs. We live in a pretty populated area and I have no trouble merging in heavy 60+ mph traffic so dont listen to what they say about the engine. All in all, this is a great looking, sporty SUV that will get you unstuck and you will feel great driving it.
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OK Experience - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
By Bob - June 22 - 7:30 amTraded in a Maxima for a Pathfinder a couple of years ago. Mixed reaction. Loved the roominess of the cabin, as Im quite tall. Good layout, legroom. Mixed feelings about the build quality. Several noises coming from the dash, seat belts dont retract. Not up to prior Nissan experience. Realized I wasnt an SUV person... not enough fun. Just went back to a new 07 Max. Cool!
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jareds review - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
By jar - June 18 - 11:46 pmThis is the best suv there is on the market period.
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sputtering - 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
By chocolatecake - June 17 - 2:38 amI love my 2013 Pathfinder with the exception of the sputtering every so often. I have been told that there is no fix and Nissan is working on one; so therefore there is no recall as of now. It feels as though it will cut off when it does this. I have been told that no Pathfinder with this problem has cut off so far.
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2006 Nissan Pathfinder - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
By Jeff K - June 16 - 9:23 pmI have had my Pathfinder since last August and have tallied 6400 miles so far. It has all the options (leather, all airbags, sunroof, etc.) you can get on an SE accept the DVD and Navigation. Highway ride is excellent and quiet but jittery over bumps. Off- road ride on gravel and pitted roads is sure-footed and controlled. Only one trip to dealer for malfunctioning stability control sensor, replaced under warranty. Fit in finish inside is tight with no rattles or gaps. Plenty of room to haul lots of stuff when all seats are folded flat, including large dog crate and hunting equipment. Child safety seats easy to install, although middle position has no LATCH. Overall, very satisfied.
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This is my 2nd Pathfinder - 2010 Nissan Pathfinder
By CFM56Mech - June 16 - 9:43 amThe Pathfinder is a magnificent car with all the handling and comfort anyone should want or need in a mid- sized SUV. Plus, I pull both a heavy boat and a car trailer. The 6 Cyl engine is plenty and it has all the towing power and handling with a trailer, yet still gets better gas mileage than most other SUVs when empty! I use 87 Octane and do fine. These are such great cars that my 40 year old son traded his Tahoe and bought a 2010 Pathfinder also!
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Crash tested 2 of them! - 2010 Nissan Pathfinder
By badkitty1 - June 14 - 10:38 amGot an 08 for hubs cuz the deal we got. Our love affair w/Nissan began! Someone turned in front of him when it was a week old. Minor, fixed easily. When I got mine, I told sales I didnt want a black or Pathfinder (since hubs already had). Well, didnt have $ for Armada so ended up w/ my black Pathfinder LE! Ive had it for 2.5 years and am in love. Few mos ago, a car was came at me head on, hwy speeds. Had to drive into a ditch, he hit my back 1/4 pan at 50mph & spun me 90 deg. in the ditch My 2wd Pathy drove in the ditch like it was a road. Had a bruised knee & neck/back injured. He had no insurance, so mine footed the bill. $8000 in damage, (mostly to rear susp) but shes good as new!
