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 SUV for the buck - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By New pathfinder owner - January 25 - 5:26 pm

  Just recently purchased a low mileage, used 2006 Pathfinder SE. Pretty base setup but has the sunroof and Bose Premium sound system in it. On the road it handles pretty well. V6 has a lot of punch to it and suspension makes the ride pretty smooth. Fuel economy is as expected in this SUV so no surprise there however, its not as bad as some other ones with V8s. Havent taken this off-road yet however I think it would perform pretty well regardless.

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  FYI - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By CtNissanBuyer - January 24 - 1:00 pm

  Drove the SE last after checking out the Trailblazer,Explorer and Grand Cherokee Laredo.If you are looking for the most car-like ride,which we were,then head straight for your nearest Nissan Dealer.We bought the vehicle right off the lot,SE popular pkg w/auto trans.,body side moulding and floormats for $200.00 over invoice.Take the rebate and 5.9% APR instead of no rebate and 3.9 APR,you will save about $8.00/mo for 48 months.Dealership was great...no hassles or aggrivation.

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  Loudest SUV of the bunch - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By No more Nissans - January 18 - 6:06 pm

  Liked the styling and price. Owned a 2001 Pathfinder drove 67K trouble free, quiet and solid miles. Sorry I traded it in. Ive had the new Pathfinder 1 day and it is the loudest car weve owned in decades. Engine and road noise are annoying. The car needs more insulation. Sounds like a 4-wheel pick-up. Nissan better hope no one asks our opinion of the new car.

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  A few minor changes & it would be great! - 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
  By J. Ro - January 15 - 2:00 am

  I have been driving my new 2003 Pathfinder LE for almost a year now and I love it. The overall exterior and interior styling is what attraced me to it most. Everything inside is easy to read and very easy on the eye. I also have a 17 foot Four Winns speed boat that it tows with ease. You can actually fold down the rear seats, tilt the front seats all the way back (right up to the rear seat) and you have yourself a very comfortable bed.

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  Does everything I want it to - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Pathfinder LE - January 14 - 10:06 pm

  Surprisingly good fuel economy for a vehicle of this weight, size and power. Very very good acceleration. Very roomy.

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  i love my type II pathy - 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
  By nosrednuG99 - January 14 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Pathfinder in January of 02 from a dealership that I work for ina subarb of Chicago. When i purchased it, it had 93000 miles on it. i still bought it because it was a Nissan and it would run forever.and it was in extremely good shape.(also it had a grill guard, remote starter, bose htd leather) I love it, its fun to drive, looks great, great offroad capabilities, great ride, and looks more expensive then it is. I goto school in the mountains of Arizona and it takes the trails like any great 4x4 would.

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  I love it - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By JACKNIC - January 14 - 10:00 am

  It is a nice SUV with car like ride, comfort and handling. I dont regret buying this vechile.

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  Fun Utility - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By vroooooooom - January 14 - 10:00 am

  Very powerful engine. Decent handling vehicle, excellent for an SUV. Lots of fun to drive. It seems smaller than I expected inside, but we traded in a minivan. Rear suspension was a little soft for towing 4500 lbs. But the engine is mighty and the brakes are good. Stock suspension is very car-like when not towing. I installed some air-lift suspension helpers and all is good.

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  Great SUV Hands Down - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By ESUVEE LUVR - January 11 - 8:13 am

  Replaced our Lexus RX330 with the fully-loaded Nissan Pathfinder LE with Nav-DVD. Great car/truck/SUV. Best we ever had. There are some trade offs with the RX330, but all-in-all, it beats it and all of the others I have test drove. If you are concerned about fuel mileage, stay away from this, or better yet, dont get an SUV.

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  Beware Of 01 Pathfinder. Find a diff car - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Jensen Thomas - January 7 - 7:10 pm

  Although i like the way they build the car exterior and interior wise, i do not like the way they have so much problems. When i bought the car in 2001 to a total of 42,433 grand, i though i will get a quality vehicle, i was wrong. I bought the state of the line entertainment system, lo jack and a push bar, all have failed me. My BOSE 6 CD changer doesnt work, keeps on getting the error "err2" which means disk stuck, push bar is poor quality and the lo jack doesnt work. I though i would get a good car but this car breaking down every time. replaced the windshield washer motors 8 times and still doesnt work and the step bar is corroded and the transmission is going only at 52343. Do not buy