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:

• 

  Love IT!!!! Favorite Vehicle!!!!!! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Mollie Jolly - February 15 - 9:46 am

  We traded in our Jeep Liberty on our Pathfinder and we could not be happier. We love its roominess (we have 2 small children) and its look. I love it....I would buy it over again in a heart beat.

• 

  Great SUV!! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Jose L. Olivieri - February 15 - 5:00 am

  I fell in love with my 2005 Nissan Pathfinder after a test drive. It has great handling and performance. The only negatives are: it does not have running day lights, auto locks, and the third row is kind of tight for an adult. The Bose stereo system is awesome. The premium and comfort packages include the DVD system. Among all other SUVs after a long search and drive tests, without doubt this is the best!!

• 

  Worst car in this size - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By ROBER - February 13 - 10:00 am

  In two years 5 problems, the roof leaking, solenoid, valve, airbags, battery, window and two problem with solutions. Mechanical service, Maroone of Miami is the worst thing in this matter. The final point is new car with to many problems, whats next

• 

  Right Choice - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Right Choice - February 7 - 2:20 am

  We test drove a Chevy Tahoe, a Toyota 4Runner, a Toyota Highlander, and a Nissan Pathfinder. The Pathfinder had styling, comfort, and plenty of room inside. The only negative factor weve discovered is that it tends to wander at speeds above 60 mph. No problem with transmission as described by other owners.

• 

  LOVE IT! - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
  By SNJBOY - February 6 - 10:00 am

  This is an extremely good on the road SUV. Very little experience off road, but always had excellent traction in all kinds of weather

• 

  Awesome!! - 1995 Nissan Pathfinder
  By UnCwTwIn - February 4 - 1:26 pm

  I bought my Pathfinder in 07/99 with about 65K miles. With over 200K miles as of 07/07, its still going and runs as great as the day I got it! The engine refuses to give me any problems! I love this vehicle because it fits well with any lifestyle and looks good at any occasion. There is one small spot where the paint is fading on the hood, but otherwise, the exterior paint is still in remarkably good condition. Transmission was replaced (wouldnt shift to reverse) in 04 and front axle was replaced in early 07. Otherwise, no major issues whatsoever. Ive put very little money into upkeep. Regular oil changes, limiting off-road use, and taking it easy on the gas pedal worked for me!

• 

  Has Been Excellent, but... - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By - February 4 - 10:21 am

  We bought our 2005 Pathfinder LE 4x4 automatic new in January of 2006. It has been a great vehicle in every way, including reliability. The MPG has been between 8 off road in 4x4, 12 durring the worst winter driving around town in AWD, to 22 on high speed freeways in 2WD, to 24 on moderate speed county highways in 2WD.

• 

  Major problem right from factory! - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By DMY1973 - February 2 - 2:00 am

  The day I picked up the Pathfinder I experienced a stalling/idling problem. The problem continued to get worse and the first time I used it on the highway, the vehicle would not upshift forcing the engine to redline at 65 mph. The dealer made $1500 worth of torque converter warranty repairs. The parts took a month to come in and the vehicle was completely unreliable to drive. This appears to be fixed now but the windshield stress cracked at 6 mos due to improper installation. I enjoy driving this Pathfinder I am very concerned about its long term reliability. I have another 30 months on my lease and that scares me.

• 

  98 Pathfinder---What a find! - 1998 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Franko - February 1 - 10:00 am

  Bought this SUV from a dealer with 86k miles, but it looked like new and runs the same. A pleasure to drive, comfortable leather seats, and all the amenities on the SE are superb. Even my wife thinks this was a great buy, and she was against it at the beginning. I cant say enough about the quality of this vehicle and its bound to be around for several years!

• 

  more power - 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
  By burley - February 1 - 10:00 am

  very reliable off road suv. havent had major problems. have had new off road shocks and struts which gives it a better ride that seems to be more like a truck. air bag light is blinking and is annoying! brakes have been replaced.