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 love the Pathfinder - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Taller - July 11 - 10:00 am

  The Pathfinder rides like a car. I absolutely love it. The BOSE stereo sounds great. Its got plenty of pick up and looks good on the road. The automatic controls on the steering wheel for cruise and for the stereo are easy to use and conveniently located. By far the best car Ive ever owned.

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  Great to drive - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By billc - July 8 - 2:10 pm

  This is my second Pathfinder, my first was the 05 "off road" model. This time I upgraded to the LE with nav. So far its been nothing but fun to drive.

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  Great SUV - 2010 Nissan Pathfinder
  By chris - July 4 - 12:43 pm

  Im really glad I decided on the Pathfinder. I looked at the Explorer, 4Runner, and Pilot, however the Pathfinder suited me best. It was nicely equipped and has lots of power. The ride is firmer than the explorer and the 2nd row has less room, however my teenage boys say they have plenty of room. The gas mileage is on par with other SUVs of this size, but you are recommended to use premium gasoline. The keyless operation has taken some getting used to. Overall, I am very pleased with the purchase.

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  Pathfinder LE 2005 - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By marxmitco - July 3 - 11:43 pm

  This SUV is a great combination of larger vehicle with good gas mileage. The interior is well laid out and the engine has plenty of pick up when needed. Nissan makes a very reliable vehicle.

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  Still fantastic reliable SUV - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By assem mota - July 2 - 12:26 am

  I bought it 3 years back used, pushing it to the limit, never let me down. Had problem with cd (I sent it for repair for 3 times in 2 years), tires lasted for very long time. I still enjoy it too much. In case of change I will go for the new Path.

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  2000 Nissan Pathfinder LE 3.3L V6 - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By aufiero92 - June 30 - 10:56 pm

  I was passed down a 2000 Pathfinder from my dad recently.. He got it new and I received it with 150K and was running fine. Since then, Ive put 35K on it and have had no major problems. This car is one of the most reliable vehicles Ive ever had. Starts fine in the freezing cold, 4WD works perfect, has never broken down, however, there are a few electrical problems. Most of the console lights dont work, seat heater indicator doesnt work, sunroof only opens by repeatedly clicking the switch, and the 6 CD changer broke and got jammed before I replaced it. Other then those small cosmetic issues, it is a great car and very reliable.

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  The one to wait for. - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Bilbolo - June 29 - 2:00 am

  I waited for this car for 2 years. It was well worth it. Great car, great reliability, design, 19 miles to the gallon, loaded. The best value for the dollar. The 4wd works great from the limited use I have had with it (its summer in Texas). I would definitely recommend - go find the Path.

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  Moved from Explorers - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By W Frank Smith - June 24 - 7:06 am

  I have owned several Ford Explorer and Expeditions, and have a small fleet of F15/350 trucks, but I bought the Nissan Pathfinder expecting it to have fewer problems than the 2002 Explorer I traded, and have better resale/trade value (Explorers depreciate way too fast) Nissan reputation in these areas strongly influenced my decision.

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  So far - so good. - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By 2fastdre - June 23 - 2:00 am

  I bought a used 2001 Pathfinder SE 4WD 2 months ago with about 38,000 miles already on it. And I have to say that its been a pleasant experience so far over about 2,000 miles. No major problems or issues came up - although I have 2 minor worries that I will have looked at during next service. The sunroof shade rattles a bit when open, and the rear hatch lifting rods just started to skweak while opening or closing. Other than that I am happy with it and looking forward to doing some Colorado camping and towing a ski boat in the summer.

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  NOT BAD. - 2007 Nissan Pathfinder
  By PEDRO - June 19 - 3:46 pm

  I was going to buy a 4Runner Limited , but after driving it, we were unimpressed. So decided to give the Pathfinder a drive. What a difference. Much better ride, more comfortable inside and cheaper price. The fuel economy I get is about 17 city 20 hwy, and I have a heavy foot.