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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  Wish Id bought a Tahoe - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Billybob - October 15 - 10:46 am

  We bought the Pathfinder after owning a GMC Yukon thinking "this will be more sporty and get better gas mileage." We were right about the sportiness part of SUV but found the utility lacking because of the small size and the gas mileage being actually worse than the larger Yukon/Tahoe. It is a nice vehicle with comfortable leather front seats, but the backseat is horrible and really only fit for kids. I guess its all relative to what a persons needs are so if the size is not an issue then I would recommend this as a good vehicle to have. Weve kept it for 8 years so it wasnt too bad of an experience. Replaced oxygen sensor with Maxima sensor for 20% of the pathfinder price 3 yrs ago.

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  Hardy Value - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Joe in Delaware - October 15 - 10:00 am

  I bought the Pathfinder after my extensive research found Pathfinder has bulletproof reliability, good off- road capability, and ample towing capacity. Also, our past Nissan vehicles have been long lasting, trouble-free vehicles (we got 180,000+ miles on our 240SX!). With our Pathfinder, weve put many enjoyable miles (e.g., highway, around town, and offroad) on the Pathfinder...its roomy, rides well on the highway, and can fit all our luggage plus cart around the family. Overall, we appreciate this versatile, comfortable and rugged vehicle!

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  If you THINK you want it - get it! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By SoCal Roy - October 14 - 9:03 pm

  Wifes lovin it. First-time Nissan owner - but Pathfinders great history. Strong resale, LOTS of power, great ride/handling, smooth/quiet. Have an 18ft I/O boat, so needed a family vehicle to tow WITH EASE while not being cumbersome hard-to-park the rest of year and contrary to others I think the mileage is just fine for this type vehicle (ave. 20 mpg on last hiway trip - my best hiway Dodge Club Ram ave.15) You do NOT "require" premium gas - perfect on 87 octane. Much roomier than the Pilot. Use the internet to purchase - fight for invoice pricing!!!

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  Love this car - 2014 Nissan Pathfinder
  By tykes - October 12 - 6:19 pm

  Bought my 2014 SL 4x4 in Aug. 2013. I already have 21k miles on it. We bought this car for the incredible leg room and the towing capacity & we had previously owned a 2007 pathfinder & had no problems with it. At between 3k - 5k miles we did experience the shudder, took it into the dealer, they fixed it & we havent had any problems since. This is a great car. Smooth ride, great features, love the leg room, good gas mileage, fun to drive, reasonably priced & we have had tons of compliments on it.

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  great used SUV - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By bradfinken - October 7 - 6:16 am

  Ive noticed with my 2000 Pathfinder LE that when cold, it wont shift into overdrive until engine is warm. A little frustrating when most of my driving is highway. Fuel economy is 15 city and 17 hwy. When pulling, I get 14-15 depending on how fast I go. The comfort is outstanding, not trucky at all. Feels like a dream to sit in. Heated seats will light your backside on fire.

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  Love my 07 SE - 2007 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Eugene - September 30 - 8:23 pm

  This is my fourth Pathfinder. All have been excellent vehicles. This one is the best yet.

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  Disappointing Quality - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By SRK - September 29 - 5:00 am

  I researched this purchase extensively and the Pathfinder won out over several competitors. One of the reasons was I had some quality issues on my prior Explorer and felt the Nissan would be superior in quality. Unfortunately, this has not been the case. I have had numerous problems, though all are small. In 10k miles the dash has developed a squeak that cannot be located. The RR power window does not work. The domelights work intermitantly, and the LF door speaker buzzes even when the radio is off. In 3 trips to the dealer only the domelight is fixed. The power window and speaker parts have been on backorder for 4 months. I like the truck but cannot recommend it.

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  another great SUV - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Brad - September 28 - 11:20 am

  Just two weeks off the lot, I took 5 passengers (2 kids) up the grapevine to the CA central valley. My MPG? 20.2! Noticeable drops in crowded fwys, but still between 16.6 and 17.4! My old 98 Pathfinder ranged between 13 and 15 putting out just 168 horses. 06 is not as agile as the previous unibody design, but more than fair trade for more power, more efficiency, more flexibility, more luxury, more safety, and more seating. Right before I bought, I test-drove the Pilot and was underwhelmed -- it wasnt even a better drive than my 98. Its leather interior looked like old Buick vinyl and its sunroof would better suit the Civic. My first right turn in the Pathfinder was all I needed.

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  2 transmission since January 2014 - 2014 Nissan Pathfinder
  By mhasabal - September 27 - 6:13 pm

  I will make it short. whats the point of buying a new car if i have to keep going back to service almost every other week? Nissan decided to change the transmission 2 weeks after i purchased the car cause of shaking problem. then again in April 2014 cause of the same problem. and now i feel i wasted over 30,000 on piece of junk. while driving on highway car is shaking vigorously. there are already 4 recalls on the car. I will never buy a nissan again.

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  Great SUV - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By JAraujo - September 25 - 10:00 am

  This is a great SUV not to big and not to small and it has the power you need, I bought my Pathfinder in june 2001 so far no problem, well just a small noise that it comes from the back of the wheels went I push the break, but I love my Pathfinder is great.