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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  scratched paint - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By JMM71 - November 7 - 10:00 am

  Picked up my Pathfinder. Took off the wind deflector for the sunroof that can with the vehicle( I dont like them or the look. It was all scratched underneath. A little disappointed at the fools that installed it. They did a good job messing up the Sherwood Green paint, right to the metal(and not just a little). Bringing it back to dealership, after having it 1 day. Other than that. Its no sedan (previouesly owned a 2001 V6 Accord EX), but I knew that before my fiance and I traded our cars in for one automobile.

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  Great Suv - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By DBoothe - November 4 - 10:00 am

  I have had my Pathfinder for just over 2 years now. The only problem I had was an o2 sensor that was replaced at the dealership at no charge. Wish gas milage was better but then again im in a SUV. It dependable and it looks good and not everybody is driving around in one. Would recommend it to anyone.

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  Great SUV - 2010 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Roadking - November 2 - 11:46 am

  Excellent build quality, looks and motor. Could use a telescopic wheel and a bit more 2d row leg room. Gas mileage is good for an SUV of this size. Like the way it handles compared to other SUVs. The "S" model comes with a lot of features for the money. Better than the Explorer I owned and others I looked at (Pilot, 4Runner and Trailblazer).

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  Third Pathfinder in a Row - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By P. Matthew - October 29 - 1:03 pm

  This is my 3rd. Had an 01 (my favorite), an 05 and just picked up an 08. Was initally looking for something bigger & w/side airbags standard, but for price, value & fun-to-drive I was back to the Pathfinder. Found an SE w/ side airbags which came loaded minus the leather seats. Ive had others including Cherokee and Volvo XC90 - Pathfinder has the best performance(very fast!), character, and lots of storage. Many of the materials on the 08 seem better than 05, the cabins quieter and the wheels/tires are larger, so its a slightly different ride. Doesnt seem to corner quite as well, but the 01 handled the best. The thick steering wheel feels just right, and the truck is easy to drive.

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  My 1st SUV - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
  By PJKT01 - October 25 - 2:00 am

  This is my first SUV, I have been married for 4 years and we have 2 children ages 3 & 2. I had a 99 ZX2 which I loved but it was getting too small. So we decided to go look for SUVs, I first drove a 2002 KIA, and I didnt like it at all. So he said for arouns the same price we have this Pathfinder, I was amazed at all the features it had and the way it rode compared to the BRAND NEW KIA. It was a leased car it was low on miles 52000, Have to get used to spending 25 dollars on gas instead of 15 and getting the same amount of mileage. ALL IN ALL ITS GREAT FOR MY FIRST SUV, I would never get another car again....

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  Almost perfect - 2014 Nissan Pathfinder
  By tykes - October 24 - 5:00 pm

  Updated review- Bought 2014 SL 4x4 in Aug. 2013. 3k - 5k miles we experienced the shudder, took it into the dealer, they fixed it. 22k miles the CVT started acting up again, took it in and they replaced the transmission! At 32k miles it did it again, again they adjusted it, at 37k it hasnt done it again, so far. We have been very lucky/happy with our dealer and the service they have provided us with on this issue. Pros - Smooth ride, great features, love the leg room, good gas mileage, fun to drive, reasonably priced, Got into head on collision, very impressed with the safety features of this car. Car was totaled. Really love this car but will not buy again until CVT is fixed.

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  Limited Edition Pathfinder - 2010 Nissan Pathfinder
  By carnutz99 - October 24 - 1:28 pm

  we own a 2010 Nissan Pathfinder LE and we love it. plus it does have a navigation system and we used it but we are not so crazy about it and it does have heated seats. it has 3rd row seats to but we never use them because we only have 3 people in our family.

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  Not our first choice - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Jim Anderson - October 22 - 11:20 am

  My wife and I were shopping for a Grand Cherokee. After looking at the Cherokee, we crossed the street to take a look at the Pathfinders. It did not take long for us to fall in love with this SUV. The Pathfinder pretty much sold itself.

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  99 PATHFINDER - 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
  By DAS - October 21 - 2:00 am

  OVERALL GREAT CAR, LITTLE TOO MUCH ON GAS, GENERALLY EXCELLENT NO COMPLAINTS , FEW MINOR POINTS, THE FOG LAMMP ON ONE SIDE KEPT GOING OUT EVERY YEAR , I REPLACED IT FOR WHILE NOW IVE GIVEN UP. STEADY ON THE ROAD NEEDS GOOD TIRES ALL THE TIME.

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  Pass on the Pathfinder - 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
  By aposak - October 15 - 4:59 pm

  At least until the transmission issues with stuttering and surging are sorted out, avoid this one. The storage spaces are poorly thought out, cant get the glove compartment open if theres a passenger in the front. The center console screen is confusing and low quality. No Bluetooth music connectivity unless you spring for navigation, and the Bluetooth phone is really noisy.