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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  Needs more power - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Joe Mas - February 14 - 10:00 am

  Very nice vehicle. I tow two snowmobiles up to the mountains in New hampshire and there are many times when I wish I had a more powerful engine. Nissan addresed this problem with a 3.5 ltr. engine in newer models.

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  Too many issues - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By gayrand - February 13 - 12:20 pm

  Ive liked driving this vehicle for the past 5 years, but the issues Ive had with it are enough that I wouldnt buy another. I had to replace all six ignition coils. When the first 1 went, I took it to a dealer who wanted a lot of money to replace all 6 - when only 1 was faulty. I took it to an independent repair facility, and got another year out of the vehicle before a 2nd coil needed replacement. Slightly less than a year after that and a 3rd went, at which point I replaced the remainder. Top that off with the failure of the CD player at about 60k & finding that was a "known issue". Next time around Ill be going Honda or Toyota - and that will be soon.

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  Best SUV - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By jsail - February 12 - 4:33 am

  I am very happy with my new Pathfinder. I too came off of a very BAD experinece with my Honda Odyssey tranny problem and numerous problems. So far I love the truck and the room is great. Have had several problems in the first 500 miles. Had a bad O2 sensor that was not clear the first time. My gas mileage is real low, 13 mpg. Towing is great and so is off road. Not the normal roll that you get in other SUVs. Overall would go down and get 10 more if I could.

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  No repair parts available - 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
  By jcove - February 11 - 2:12 am

  2013 Pathfinder was rear ended with damage to the driver side rear quarter panel. Pathfinder has been at the Nissan body shop for six weeks waiting on the quarter panel. The insurance company has oked ( without my knowledge) the shop to repair the damaged sheet metal rather than continuing to wait on the rear quarter panel. When contacted Nissan consumer affairs on assistance with rental car reinbursment and or possible making a payment due to the lack of repair parts. I was told the part was on national backorder. no assistance on the rental nor the payment. Nissan customer service has slipped from what it used to be as I have owned 8 other Nissans. This will be my last one !!!!!

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  First NIssan - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By trbochrg - February 10 - 1:56 am

  This is our First Nissan, i have been loyal to VW Since 1998 but i needed a vehicle that seated at least 7 and since the Touareg only seats 5, and VW doesnt sell vans here anymore i had to look for an SUV elsewhere ( i dont care for vans much anyways) Weve had the pathfinder for a week and so far we love it, nice and powerful, yet not very fuel efficient (we expected that though) at 16/21 MPG.

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  Car Review - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Ringram - February 7 - 3:53 am

  This 05 pathfinder is what we had been looking for and didnt realize it. We traded twice before finding this care. It gets good gas milage for a midsize suv and has nice luxury for the price. Weve had minor problems from the start but have been fixed promptly. overall i would buy it again without question.

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  Im in Love!!!! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By SheShopper - February 2 - 9:20 pm

  Just brought this baby home Monday and wish I had more places to drive its such a joy. Its classy with the silver exterior and tan interior. I did notice a little wind noise but Bose can overcome that nicely!

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  Never Disappointed me - 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Mary516 - January 30 - 10:00 am

  Bought new, still going real strong 7 years & 130,000 miles later. Normal maintenance is all this Pathfinder has ever needed. Rides well, holds a lot. Gas mileage is consistent with if not better than other SUVs. Love the full size spare tire. Will drive this car till it dies, whenever that might be. Holds road really well in heavy rain or snow. Sometimes keeps 4WD engaged even after you dont want it, but it eventually goes back to normal by itself.

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  would do it again - 1998 Nissan Pathfinder
  By trick1us - January 26 - 2:00 am

  I have enjoyed this vehicle and it came in handy with the snow and Ice we have had up here in the north east it is quiet and is well designed for the driver not a single problem since I havd had it

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  Buy a 4Runner - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Adam - January 22 - 3:13 pm

  Was choosing between this and 4Runner. Chose Pathfinder because of option availability and price. At 7000 miles headliner (ceiling) started falling out. Took to dealer and they replaced the entire ceiling. Second ceiling was full of creases and looked far worse so it went back for a third time. They had it for five days and it came back with many faults. Stains on sunroof, ill-fitting, scratched, and broken trim. I am waiting new parts on back order so it can go back again and they can fix all the interior bits they broke. It will never be right again.