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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  Happy - 2009 Nissan Pathfinder
  By R Duchini - March 26 - 12:10 pm

  Weve had this vehicle for a little over a month. Weve had 0 problems. Its fun to drive. Im 6 ft and wifes 5 ft 4, both have comfortable rides. One was over a 7 hour drive to Canada. We looked at the Acadia and the 4Runner. Im glad we picked the Pathfinder, no regrets.

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  Driving in NY city - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By alainw - March 25 - 10:08 am

  I own a 08 LE and an 1998 LE pathfinder. The 08 has 16k miles on it and the 98 110k. They both are great but absolutly not comparable. The LE also has the navigation and DVD package. I never was able to achieve better than 12m/g in the city in any condition in the 08 where it is 16 m/g on the 10 years older PF. My 39 m lease on the 08 will finish in 7 weeks and I will bargain buying it from Nissan Bank. Having said that I am definitly pleased overall. But I still prefer the built and drive of the 10 years older PF (08 is built on a truck frame while 98 is a car based SUV). I find that nothing is plastic inside of the latter and the plush carpet and in it are better quality.

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  Pathfinder Fun - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By DWS - March 25 - 12:36 am

  Replaced a Dodge Durango with a Pathfinder. I enjoy having the same seating capacity as the Durango and a 4000 pound tow capacity in a vehicle that gets better gas mileage. Durango V8 was terrible on gas (under 13 mpg). The Pathfinder V6 is much better so far (averaging over 17 city but only have 900 miles on it to date. Also, I live in Arizona and the Durango air conditioning would not keep up. The Pathfinder has excellent air conditioning capacity. I find the handling and ride very similar in both vehicles. Pathfinder is a much quiter vehicle even though I have found more "plastic" in this vehicle as compared to the Durango.

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  Great SUV! - 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
  By mcarey - March 18 - 10:00 am

  This is a great SUV and I am so happy with the Pathfinder. The only detracting feature is the gas mileage. Other than that, I would say that the Pathfinder is top notch! We got a heck of deal on the Pathfinder, considering that it was going for about 27,000 at invoice we paid about 3,000 below that. The ride runs well and sitting up high is really nice as well. If you are in the market for a midsize SUV, then this is the one to get.

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  2 Weeks Old - 2012 Nissan Pathfinder
  By mrcarp - March 14 - 1:51 pm

  Me again. Just used the new PF to tow crushed stone. Was able to pull 2,800 lbs. effortlessly. The truck did not sink hardly at all when the bucket loader was filling the trailer...our old 03 used to drop its tail end so much that it looked like the rear wheels would rub. I will need to get a larger drop hitch though, as the trailer is at quite an angle coming off the 2" drop from the old rig. Stay tuned...

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  SL Tech Package = Pure Luxury - 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
  By GregNice - March 14 - 4:58 am

  This car has all the bells and whistles we were looking for. The interior is nicely done and it is almost close to its "sibling" the Infiniti QX60 in terms of luxury. The ride is nice and smooth. The SL Tech Package has it all. It features the 360 degree camera, Nav, power liftgate, excellent Bose system with sub in the rear, memory driver settings, blind spot monitoring with the rear cross traffic alert. I mean too many options to list. The only downside is the cargo area. We are coming from a boxy 2012 Pilot which ate up everything in the cargo area. This Pathfinder falls a little short in that respect. The 2nd row slides easy with access to the 3rd row. I also like the option of switching between 2wd and 4wd auto. Overall we are happy with the lease we made. I also got a great deal. This is a $43,000 SUV and I am paying less than $400 month on 12k 36 month lease with just taxes upfront. We were waiting for the new Pilot but the more I see the front, I want to throw up. The thing is just ugly and boring looking like a cr-v odyssey. Plus no lease on it yet. Bye Bye Honda. Hello Nissan Infiniti!!!

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  Poor service - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By bosco1627 - March 13 - 11:40 am

  Two months old and 1400 miles power steering pump stopped working and vehicle was in shop for over a week. Horrible communication with service department. Will not shop there again for any vehicle.

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  hits and misses - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By newnissanbuyer - March 11 - 11:30 pm

  the 2005 pathfinder is great to drive and looks fantastic. you can really feel the power of the engine. the interior is also fairly comfortable with lots of space. having said that, there are some things I need to address. the glovebox does not shut properly and I need to take it back to the dealer to get it fixed. there is also an annoying rattle in the dashboard that comes and goes. there are also odd little creaks and sounds coming from the car which makes me really question the quality of the build. would this happen with a honda or a toyota?

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  9 month review - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By HoopUte - March 10 - 2:00 am

  240 hp engine is very nice. Maybe a little small on rear storage space. A trip with 4 for a week would probably require a roof rack to hold everything. 4WD basic system serves my needs well. Did very well on winter roads in Colorado & Wyoming. City mileage about 16mpg but have gotten up to 24 mpg on highway. After 9 months Im extremely happy with this car.

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  Nice ride - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By 1stPathfinder - March 4 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my 01 4WD SE for a year now and have to say Im 90% happy with my purchase. The engine is silky smooth but does suck down the premium gas. Power is great as is the storage capacity. This is my first SUV so I cant really compare, but I do know it rides very nice. I opted for the 5- speed and still belive its more fun to drive. The power windows started squealing but it was fixed under warranty, as was the O2 sensor.