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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  Nice auto if you can afford gas - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Jeff Reddy - March 12 - 2:00 am

  If you read the owners manual, you will see that Premium fuel is defined by the Octane rating. The Premium fuel it recommends is usually the middle grade at most gas stations. This is important to know as my Pathfinder averages only 14.5 mpg. Thats my only complaint though, so overall Im happy.

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  Excellent Value - Quality Rig - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Jack Jones - March 12 - 2:00 am

  Looked at 4-Runner and Liberty - Pathfinder was hands down winner for VALUE. Engine is VERY peppy - rig really moves for a 4400 lb vehicle. Have thus far driven on numerous bumpy dirt roads. I have not heard one single pop, rattle, or vibration. Rig is very solid and tight! Surprisingly quiet on highway.

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  Smooth ride, but could use more room - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By twoskip - March 12 - 2:00 am

  I will say that this SUV has a great car like ride. Better MPG than my previous Grand Cherokee. Not as roomy as the Grand Cherokee though, and not enough interior storage compartments for misc. things.

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  It is LOVELY - 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
  By TommeeNguyen - March 7 - 2:00 am

  I have had several SUV in the past, and this is the niciest one ever, the carlike hanndling, smooth drive everywhere you go, powerful engine and the features are easy to operated...

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  Got beauty & brains; Needs brawn - 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Kirk B - March 5 - 10:00 am

  Having a short highway commute shows the major flaw of this SUV; lack of horsepower. Merging and passing can be a chore. Other than that, its comfortable, rides well and is built pretty well. So throw in a K&N air filter, a few other tweaks and this SUV will get you where you need to go in style....albeit not very fast.

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  An excellent choice and value - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Charles - February 28 - 5:26 pm

  I bought used in 2001 with 27,000 and now have 81,000 in March 08. It a very comfortable and reliable SUV with lots of cargo space. No major repairs but I do keep it serviced regularly at my local Nissan dealer. I changed all the fluids about a year ago as a preventive maintenance procedure. During these higher gas price times, I would like better mpg but can live with 17 overall. Highway mileage is around 20-21. I like this body style much better than the new Pathfinder. Itclean and understated which I prefer. Excellent reliability and like to drive it.

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  What happend to the pathfinder? - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By patty no more - February 28 - 3:36 am

  I have owed 3 Nissans. My first was a 2000 LE pathfinder and this was the best of the the 3. Sturdy, off road, luxury..had everything. I owned my 2000 for 9 yrs no problems. I made a mistake getting an 08 fully loaded v8 LE pathfinder. It squeaked rattled and steering and handling was horrible. I felt every bump in the steering wheel and I took off road once….big mistake. It rattled horribly in the frame, door panels everything. They turned the pathfinder into a soccer mom’s minivan! I traded in the v8 patty for a new 2010 off road xterra. Much sturdier vehicle (less rattles) but has no options. Too bad the xterra doesnt have the options of the pathfinder. It would be a perfect SUV!

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  You get what you pay for - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By JM - February 27 - 3:40 am

  Purchased this 2005 LE in December 2004 and got a pretty fair deal as it was Dec 31st. I must say we use this vehicle a lot and its provided fair value. We still have original brakes and tires. We replaced the battery once and fuel sending unit 4 times. Nissan took care of the first 3 sending unit replacements under warranty and the covered half of the cost of the most recent one. Recently the air bag "dummy" light was flashing but I learned how to reset it on the web. Our Nissan dealer wanted $700 to replace the "airbag computer." The instrument panel of this vehicle is really starting to scare me as Im not sure what will fail next. Although I love my Infinitis, I wont buy Nissan

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  My Pathfinder - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Ajefmex - February 21 - 2:00 am

  Great Truck. Great looks as well as performance. Have driven it about 52000 miles in two years exactly and never had a problem.

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  very very good car - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Hector - February 19 - 9:53 am

  I have bought the LE model of the nissan pathfinder. I bought it in super black and the interior is creame leather. This is a beautiful car especially when its nice and shiny and clean. The engine is pretty fast 270 horse power is enough for me.Sometimes in the highway i will be putting the car 135 mph and u cant even feel it but u do see your self leaving all the cars behind and passing other vehicles trying to press there gas on me.I love it when i press the gas and your back goes against the seats. sharp on turns and wonderful in the snow espeacially when i have the auto 4x4 which the car puts 4 wheel drive when ever it needs it.