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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  Solid - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Jason - October 19 - 4:46 pm

  Had the Pathfinder for 10 months now and still cant find something we dont like. We went to buy the 4-runner but this just blew it out of the water.

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  An excellent choice! - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Resa - October 14 - 10:00 am

  I totally disagree with the review written by the other customer on this page. I found the dealer to be very responsible and accommodating... the quality of the Nissan Pathfinder (and a previously owned Nissan Maxima) is what makes me coming back for more! I love the interior quality, performance, reliability, style and more. My next vehicle will be either a Pathfinder or a Maxima!

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  Not to Shabby - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By JarHed - October 7 - 2:00 am

  Very happy with the overall performance of my P-finder. 6 disc indash player is great and fairly easy to operate. Stereo sounds great right from the factory. Plenty of power to spare. Only bads, head room. Im 63 and my head scrapes the top. When you really get on it, it doesnt know what gear to find.

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  Nice Exterior/Poor Quality - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Jason - October 6 - 6:06 am

  Ive owned four Nissans in the last five years including a 99.5 Pathfinder SE 4WD, and went out immediately and bought the 2005 new body style when it came out. This SUV has a rugged, great looking exterior. However, the vehicle is plagued with quality issues. The fuel gauge is not working (bad fuel level sending unit). The CD player is not working. The rear driver passenger window is not working. Also, there are gaps in the upholstery where seems are not sewn together properly and foam is pushing through. All of these malfunctions hit right after the 36,000 warranty expired (if you get one, get the extended warranty). Also, dont expect any assistance from Nissan

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  Great second car. Poor Gas mileage - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Illuminati - October 5 - 10:00 am

  Excellent vehicle. Bad gas mileage, but which SUV isnt. Mechanical quality is superior. Very reliable, easy to maintain. Will last. No problems. Great price for a reliable SUV

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  Its been a great vehicle - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Lisa - October 1 - 4:13 pm

  I bought my Pathfinder new, and although I am about ready to trade it in, I have loved everything about it from the day I got it. It rides well, it handles well, it still looks great.

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  very new SUV, 1st prob. - 2007 Nissan Pathfinder
  By bliss - September 30 - 1:10 am

  My brand new 48 miles drive off the lot SUV 07. Not much of probs to report (as of yet), but so far, 6 CD changer is so broke, no ejection, no music, doing nothing, just stuck after the 3rd week. Both front windows went nuts and rolled down by themselves while the key is off the vehicle. That was very haunting. Engine is really loud as a racing car. If you hate racing cars, dont buy Pathfinder. If fuel price is a big deal for you, dont buy Pathfinder. It will haunt the daylight out of you. Very masculine SUV, best suit for guy drivers (saw lots of gal driving em though.)

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  my new Pathfinder - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By hopper - September 28 - 6:46 am

  I just purchased this pathfinder. We looked at everything, 4runner, Escape, liberty, exconoix, etc... This was the most car for the money. I would have paid the same or 4 to 5,000 more for the other vehicles. This is much bigger than the other suvs. It was a lot less expensive as the 4runner. We even looked at the honda ridgeline, it was 33,000. So far this is a great fun suv. It looks good, has plenty of room inside, fun to drive, great cd player, good information center, good lights for night driving, great steering, tight steering, so so on gas usage, so far 15.6 mpg. in the city. Cant expect great gas milage with this size vehicle. Seats fold flat, good cargo area,great a/c.

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  Great SUV to own - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By LWatson57 - September 27 - 10:00 am

  Great handling and comfort.The fold down rear seats are tricky but the reclining feature is excellent. The gas milage is average but has great pick-up.

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  A great way to get into a roomy suv - 2016 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Gary - September 27 - 3:24 am

  First I tried out other suvs and decided that for the price the room and the mileage the S model with 4 wheel drive was what I wanted to buy . I formally had a 2010 chevy impala but we live in the country and our road doesnt get plowed well and I wanted a 4 wheel drive and I play music and I wanted it to be able to hall some equipment too. Note it isnt filled with options the ones I miss are a power drivers seat, auto lights, towing package, and a backup camera. I put a after market hitch and a wiring harness on it for about 160 dollars( it comes with a tranny cooler from the factory) and a aftermarket back up camera for 100. It drives nice is comfortable and im getting 25.4 miles to the gallon combine driving. I have 7700 miles on it and have had no problems with it and I got it for 28000 out the door and it still can tow 5000 lbs