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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  Great SUV!! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By JNJWILL - November 19 - 2:23 pm

  I have only had my Pathfinder for 2 weeks now but it has turned out to be a very nice SUV. My wife and I purchased an SE with the comfort and premium packages and we are happy with both. I wanted the BOSE stereo and she wanted the sunroof. We have a 20 months old now and another on the way so we have to get something bigger. The engine pulls very strong and handles well for such a heavy vehicle. We looked at the Honda Pilot and the 4 Runner and we liked the look of the Nissan the best. The Honda did come with more standard saftely features though. Nissan was also ready to deal and we got the vehicle at invoice. I am only getting 16 mpg at the moment though.

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  Unreliable and Costly - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Bob Smith - November 19 - 4:16 am

  9 years old, 88,000 miles. In the last 2 years, Ive spent $3500 in repairs such as: muffler system, struts, brakes, tires, ignition key cylinder. Now, it has a radiator fluid leak due to a blown head gasket, Im told. Costly repair. Ive never had that happen, especially at this mileage. I would avoid the Pathfinder

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  ill stick at SO SO - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Anonymous - November 19 - 2:00 am

  I love the ride.Gets up and goes I got it at a local dealership I paid 14000 friend discount it had 40000 when i got it now im running on 70000 and it still runs strong.I have the problems like everyone.DTE,Check engine light,and the tire light just came on yesterday.All this just started happening this year.Nothing wrong with my tires just need new ones can easyly reset by pulling off the negitve wire from the battery(black one)and if u got ur Nissan used can check if the previous owner took it in for the recall fuel if not u can still get it replaced.It will clear out the DTE and no more check engine light.Living here in hawaii I surf and tow jet skis and boats its like the energizer bunny

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  loved it when it worked - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Anonymous - November 19 - 2:00 am

  bought a used 06 SE from carmax with a 60 warranty(thankfully) engine wise and looks wise a great SUV but had a few problems with it that were dangerous IMO. Rear diff had to be replaced and luckily under warranty at 49k miles! two different occasions the car would out of nowhere not steer more than 10 degrees to the left and deemed dangerous IMO. replaced under warranty both times and this might have been a lemon cause how soft it was driven. The steering issue the first time was the rack and pinion and the second time was the steering column IMO it was the steering column the whole time. Overall great looks and feel in driving when it steered properly! Great engine and powerful for a re

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  New Pathfinder - 2017 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Steve White - November 16 - 10:59 pm

  We have only had out new 2017 Pathfinder for a couple weeks but love it already. the vehicle is roomy and very comfortable and did well after the recent storms. It has every safety feature and we are still learning all the tech features.

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  Nissan Pathfinder Plat vs. Honda Pilot Touring - 2017 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Mark Howell - November 10 - 5:17 pm

  3-months ago I bought my wife a 2017 Honda Pilot Touring AWD and today offloaded it to the local Nissan dealership for a far superior 2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum AWD midnight edition with family entertainment. Why you might ask? Because the technology in the Honda Pilot is far inferior than that of the NPF. Why would you put a rear seat entertainment system in a vehicle if you cant control it from the drivers seat. Ask Honda. It was impossible to start movies from the front of the car, which is completely useless. Why would you force a phone call made from your iPhone into what they call "private mode" and NOT let it play through bluetooth. Google this if youre comparing cars right now because it is a huge, known problem. That makes no sense. Finally, why wont you let us disable the engine auto start/stop feature through a setting rather than have to turn it on and off every time you start the car? Stupid feature, popular in Europe but whats the point. So you know what the Pathfinder does? Lets you control the rear seat entertainment system from the drivers seat, puts all calls through the bluetooth unless you decide to make it a private call, and doesnt shut your engine off at a light. Oh and the interior is awesome, ride is better and it feels like a much more well thought out vehicle. Add to the that Nissan rebates right now are the best in the market. I highly recommend this vehicle. If youre in the market and thinking about the Pilot, be wary of the technology.

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  Least reliable vehicle Ive ever owned - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Tony - November 5 - 8:16 am

  My wife and I have owned 12 vehicles in the last 7 years; this truck has been in the shop more times in the last year than all the others combined. Items replaced: fuel gauge, all belts, window regulator, and as of today, fuel pump. We will not buy another Nissan product. Also, if you have 2 car seats, one being rear facing, forget about being comfortable if your over 56". We will be selling this vehicle soon.

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  2008 Nissan Pathfinder - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By ANTHONY - November 2 - 1:20 am

  This vehicle is very nice, but the windows when brought down a little while driving makes a lot of rattling noise/sound which is very disgusting. I cannot even open mines. When I told the dealer, they said never heard of the problem and cannot do anything. Just had a recall for the clock, giving wrong time every now and then. Also the power seats are always being touched every time I enter or on the way out of the vehicle causing the seats to be re-set every time.

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  Luxury SUV without the cost - 2007 Nissan Pathfinder
  By cmj15 - October 31 - 8:53 am

  Just got back from the first road trip to the mountains. It was very comfortable for myself and my passengers. It has a very smooth ride and is very fun to drive. I dont think I could have picked a better car. I love the way it looks, rides and feels. I have even had 2 adults seat in the 3rd row of seats and say it wasnt bad. There is good leg room throughout.

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  major problems!!!!! - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By lovebaby24 - October 31 - 5:45 am

  I have had my car 3 years and i am still making payments i have replaced the cadillac converters and one co2 sensor which has cost me 2200.00. Now i found out my tranmission is slipping which if you do research on it alot of people are having the same problem! No recall i guess nissan could care less about you after the sale will never own another one!!!!!!