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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  First Nissan Owned - 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
  By CRE - June 11 - 10:00 am

  What a great vehicle which has been underrated by the press. This SUV is very well engineered inside and out and appears to be solidly constructed (owned for 3 months). It drives very well for an SUV and even handles better than many cars on the road. The purchase process with the Nissan dealer was better than I ever imagined buying a new car could be.

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  NOT WHAT EXPECTED - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By caesar - June 10 - 2:00 am

  I just bought the vehicle and I have had several annoying problems. It has 28,000 miles on it and the steering wheel vibrates. I took it back to Nissan and they balanced the tires but it still vibrates. The transmission always seems to "clunk" into gear just after take off. The tranny also slips first thing after a start up. Once it warms up it seems to be fine. Im thinking of returning this junker. Also the gas pedal too touchy.

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  Great Mid-Sized SUV - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By JAmiot - June 9 - 10:20 pm

  The new 2005 Storm Grey SE, 4X4 Pathfinder impresses me with something new every time I drive it. The smooth and powerful drivetrain, quiet ride, well-thought out interior features make for a quality SUV with "lots of bang for the buck!" The fit and finish is top notch and I predict this vehicle will be a big hit. People need to look at this ride before buying a new mid- sized SUV before they make a mistake and buy the wrong vehicle and pay too much.

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  Knocking Sound - 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
  By hth3 - June 8 - 3:22 pm

  I bought the 2013 Pathfinder SL on 11/26/2012. I started experiencing the knocking sound when accelerate the vehicle. I took it in to service, but the Technician could not hear it very well because it was snowy day with road noise. He told me to take it back at another time. I am planning to take it in again on my first oil change. It has about 1700 miles on it now. The car already had the Transmission Control Module re-programmed. I traded my 2011 Altima to Toyota and traded my 2011 Quest for this new Pathfinder I thought I gave Nissan another chance, but so far very disappointed. If they cant get rid of the knocking sound, I will get rid of the car in 2 years or before its out of warranty and of course NO MORE NISSAN.

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  Best in its CLASS - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By bhaveshandsonal - June 8 - 10:00 am

  This is the best SUV I test drove and bought. I tried various others like the rip off 4Runner - which has no power and the Grand Cherokee had no power either plus a bad consumer reliability report. The Pathfinder is awesome with a lot of power and great style plus a lot of fun to drive!!!

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  So far, so good - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Skierdude - June 3 - 7:16 am

  I was a little leery of buying a Japanese SUV after 4 good years in a Durango 4x4 but weve been pleasantly surprised. The car has better pickup with its V6 than the Durango had with its V8 with about the same interior room. The styling is a head turner especially in the Canteen Green. We especially like the ease of reconfiguring the interior and have been abole to get a 9 6" surfboard in the car and still seat three people. The only negative is that the suspension doesnt seem to have enough travel, bottoming out with only moderate loads on moderate dips. So far, so good!

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  The Almost Perfect Pathfinder - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Nidgie2000 - June 2 - 2:00 am

  My 1990 Pathfinder is a stick shift with 225,000 miles. I had taken very good care of it and had just replaced the A/C and timeing belt. I thought it could go at least another 100,000miles but I really was getting tired of the stick shift so I finally decided to let my son have it and get another car. I got another Pathfinder, 2003 4WD SE, cloth seats, Popular Package. This car is absolutly superb in everyway. The comfort level is outstanding. The performance is fabulous. I cant say enough about this car!!!

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  3000 miles on 15 Pathfinder and already problems - 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
  By carbonrhody - May 28 - 11:49 pm

  I recently decided to lease a new 15 Pathfinder SL w/ Premium Package despite reading many of the issues online with 13 and 14 MY transmission issues. I choose the Pathfinder because I found it more comfortable than the Santa Fe, better fit and finish than the Explorer and I was able to get a better price/deal than the Highlander. Sitting inside the Pathfinder it feels like a very luxurious vehicle. Overall, I am worried about the build quality. Already have two issues at 3000 miles, one with the transmission having an ugly downshit into when stopping. Lots of bangs when driving. Very worried about long term durability and safety. Good thing I leased!!!

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  Best Value in its class - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By PathMan - May 27 - 2:00 am

  Great handling, acceleration, and ride. Fold down rear seats are great as well as the DVD entertainment system. Very limited road noise. Overall a great car

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  Quality, Dependability & Great Used Car - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By fasteddie - May 26 - 4:56 pm

  I purchased my Pathfinder LE in July of 2007. There were quite a few other vehicles being considered at the time of purchase but I opted for the refinement, body style and luxurious appointments of the Pathfinder LE. To this day the only issue has been the intermittent check engine light that comes on. I believe it is the o2 sensor which will be checked out next week. I have hauled everything in my vehicle, even 4 x 8 sheets of plywood. Try doing that in some other suvs... My overall satisfaction is extremely high. A highly recommended vehicle for anyone who appreciates quality, comfort and reliability!