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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  WOW! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Jamie - October 17 - 11:56 am

  I traded in my Xterra for this because i wanted something a little bigger and a little more powerful. The new motor is awesome and i love the ammenities inside. I have the premium and convenience packages which provides the Bose® stereo and the sunroof. I love the "on-steering wheel" radio controls and the trip computer is nice for feedback information. This truck is a lot more appealing then my Xterra (04) but i do miss the ole girl a little. My biggest love of the Pathfinder is the roomy interior and the monster motor. I ended up leasing it but i plan on purchasing at the end. I havent taken it off road yet but I do a lot of 4wheeling in the summer and am confident it will do just fine.

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  Great Vehicle - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By PS766643 - October 15 - 2:00 am

  I bought this vehicle with 900 miles on it and now have 11,200 miles. Im getting 19.6 mpg driving to and from work at 45 mph and 21.7 mpg on the highway at 65 mph. The ride is quiet and smooth on good roads and not bone- jarring on rough roads. The BOSE stereo system is awesome! This was the only SUV available in the LE version without leather seats. Living in a hot climate where we wear shorts a lot, I didnt want leather, but wanted the other ammenities. The vehicle could easily tow more than the rated 5,000 pounds, Nissan needs to rate it for what is is capable of doing.

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  The All-New 05 Pathfinder - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Mike Dobson - October 12 - 2:00 am

  Weve received a lot of "rubber- necking" because most people are unsure what it is. Its a mini Armada as far as Im concerned. The performance is great, a lot of power at take off and at higher speeds. Im really impressed with the speed-sensitive steering too. The interior is thoughtfully designed as well. There is only a few complaints I really have about the vehicle. The second row leg room seems to be compromised a little. For the overall size of the vehicle, I believe the second row of seats could have a little more room (when the first row seats are all the way back). The fuel economy is average, but hey its an SUV so one wouldnt expect any different. Overall- Great vehicle

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  2001 Pathfinder LE 3.5L - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Daniel Oscislawski - October 10 - 2:00 am

  Reliable SUV, but boring after a while.

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  Havent Woken Up Yet! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By JNae - October 7 - 5:00 pm

  I bought this truck in Aug. and I still love it! I got mine in Silverton Blue and get compliments on the color. It looks grey when it is dark outside and you have to get close to see dirt. It is very spacious inside w/ 2 kids and another on the way. There is room for 2 booster seats and a car seat in the middle. Gas is averaging 15-16 city, and 17-18 highway, but I knew this when I bought it. I bought this truck for my husband while he was in Iraq for a year. He is home now and loves it! We will be moving to Germany next year and will have to see how it does on the autobahn. Good pricing, too!

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  Good, solid, reliable vehicle - 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Tim - October 1 - 10:26 pm

  I bought this SUV in 8/05 with 118K and it now has over 182K. Besides routine maintenance and tires, I have only had to replace a thermostat, water pump, and muffler ($600 total). I would recommend the vehicle to anyone looking for a reliable SUV.

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  good all around vehicle - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By billy - September 30 - 3:56 am

  purchased the pathfinder after owning a maxima, power is excellent, needs better standard tires, fuel mileage is very low, heat can use some improvements, takes a good 20 minutes to warm up, by this time i am already at work. Stereo is excellent, agree that cd player skips in cold, needs more storage space, no place to put loose change. Braking is good, traction good is 4X4, however rear tires like to slide on wet pavement. Roof rack can be changed, can never get the snow off of it. All around, much better then my parents blazer and explorer, tops the cherokee..

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  Good, solid vehicle - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Kagan - September 26 - 3:13 am

  Some of the reviewers really amaze me. Do people really feel maintenance items are a reflection of a cars quality? Having to replace tires, brakes, shocks, etc. These are not reliability issues. These are regular maintenance items for ALL vehicles. My PF now has 110K miles. Ive had to replace a bad Speed Sensor, and worn suspension bushings. The vehicle starts up without hesitation every day, runs great, and will get me wherever I need to be. Ive had many other vehicles that start falling apart at 50K with major mechanical issues. If these cars require some maintenance, its because they run an awfully long time. Id rather have the burden of maint. than another car junked.

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  2013 Pathfinder - Navigation Monitor Black-Out In Less Than 24hrs. - 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
  By beu5200 - September 24 - 10:48 am

  !!BUYERS BEWARE!! -I purchased/picked up a brand new 2013 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum on Friday, 02/22/2013 at about 8:30pm, thinking that it should be the best car for me and my family. On Saturday, 02/23/2013 at about 7:00pm the navigation monitor black-out. Meaning, all infotainment, entertainment, GPS, and many other computer controls are all non-operational. Im now very doubtful to continue to drive this car. Who knows what other problems will rise next. I even called up Nissan Consumer Affairs and they are helpless. Nissan corporate just dont care for their consumers. Im now without a car to drive for 3 days and another week in pending, or possibly longer. IM SCREWED by NISSAN!!

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  Pathfinder Rocks - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By PFinder Driver - September 20 - 6:26 pm

  Ive had this car on lease for the past 3 years..now I am faced with the difficult choice of buying it out, or getting a new car. Always got me where I needed to go. GREAT for packing anything and everything into. Drives like a car not a truck.