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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  Another Winner from Nissan - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Jeff - September 8 - 12:33 pm

  Overall, this Pathfinder has been an excellent SUV. Power is outstanding, interior has been deemed as the "lap of luxury" by passengers not expecting the interior of a truck-based SUV to be as supple as the LEs. Most notible issue Ive had with the build quality is the LOUD rattle/creaking noise that consistently comes from under dash near the steering column. Ive located the cause, but neither the dealer or I have been able to mute it. Also, with 4 or 5 passengers, the rear shocks will bottom out on larger freeway bumps at highway speeds, causing an unwelcomed bouncing effect for the following couple of seconds.

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  Worth the money - 1995 Nissan Pathfinder
  By camper4lyfe - September 2 - 10:00 am

  Great all-round vehicle. I can drive it to work every day, then head out camping on the weekends without a problem. Installed a set of AT tires, and I feel nothing can stop me. Love the 5spd tranny. Bought mine with 76,000 miles 2.5 years ago, am up to 115,000 with only normal wear and tear (brakes, tires, and oil changes)

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  Tranny - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By sandy - September 1 - 2:36 am

  There is a problem with the pathfinder that seems to be happening everywhere. For some reason the coolant from the radiator is leaking into the tranmisson and it is killing the tranny. Nissan says that is your problem not theirs. That is a cost of 7000 to fix. Can not afford to take that chance. Traded in my nissan and got another car and will never buy a nissan again.

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  Disappointed - 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
  By dmontoya - August 31 - 2:33 am

  Purchased in April, the car has been to the dealership 3 times for repairs (over 30 days in the shop and counting, it is there now). First visit was for a misaligned hood and pax airbag issue. Second was for same Pax airbag issue and CVT, currently in for a new transmission due to cvt issues (stuttering between 15 and 20 mph). We are invoking our states lemon law to have Nissan buy back, we will see how that goes. Great looking car, quality is the worse I have ever seen in my 30 years of purchasing vehicles.

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  Great SUV - 2017 Nissan Pathfinder
  By J. Venegas - August 26 - 7:40 am

  I use to wotk for Nissan and after years of goung back and forth with the wife about her van...now I own what I consider a well built car. Ive owned mine for about a month, its got great acceleration. That and being teamed up with the CV trans which just builds torque with no shifting is unbelievable. I bought the SL trim package which has extra USB ports, towing, and front and second row heated seats plus more. The pathfinder had some redesigning done which actually makes it more appealing. The ride I consider very smooth but getting use to the location of some of the creature/comfort features will take some time. The audio is great, 13 speaker Boss system, Nissan always seemed to put good stereos in their vehicals. So far this SUV is great! I would highly recommeND the Nissan Pathfinder to anyone looking for a well built vehicle for a great price.

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  1995 Nissan Pathfinder XE 4WD - 1995 Nissan Pathfinder
  By cwade - August 19 - 10:00 am

  Just purchased my 95 pathy a few months ago. Since then, Ive replaced all plugs and plug cables, fuel filter, fuel pressure regulator, engine wiring harness (frayed wires to injectors), thermostat, a tension rod (front left broke from rust), O2 sensor, and now just found that the front right CV boot is cracked and the other is on the way. Ive been turning a blind eye to the major rust on the frame. The list will never end with this truck (yours may be better). If you live in a 4 seasons kind of area (Im in MN), Id look for a newer model. If it werent for the fact that I have to drive this, Id take it back. Surprisingly, the interior is great- all the lights work, windows, etc.

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  2010 nissan pathfinder - 2010 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Hockeymom - August 19 - 12:20 am

  Love the pathfinder. Have had it for 7 months. We traded in a toyota sienna, when looking for a new car, realized that we still needed the third row on occasion. I was surprised at how smooth the ride is. Not at all what I had expected. The only downsize is gas mileage. Around town get only 16 - 17 miles per gallon. On the positive side, took it up skiing and managed to get 22-23 miles per gallon.

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  Love my Pathfinder - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By AMC - August 17 - 3:10 pm

  Handles well on-road and off. Wide profile not the best in snow, but decent with good tires. Very comfortable, and most importantly, eminently reliable in over 85,000 miles. Of course, gas mileage is pretty poor, but I think I will keep it as a second car for camping, trips, etc., even when I look into a more economical daily driver.

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  I had to replace it! - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Mark - August 16 - 6:16 pm

  I bought a early 1999 Pathfinder LE in 2002. It was my first SUV and I loved it! I had an issue with head gaskets that cost me a bit but well worth it. In December 07 my wife and 10 month old son were rear-ended and the truck was flipped onto its roof. Amazingly the only injury was a scratch on my wifes head. For that reason alone I had to replace it with another Pathfinder ASAP. Just bought a 2002 SE and cant wait to get behind the wheel again. I got a great price but the Bose radios 6 disc changer doesnt work. I would recommend a Pathfinder to anyone looking for an SUV!

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  Reliable and great in off-road/snow conditions - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
  By erynnjean - August 16 - 1:33 pm

  I bought my 99 Pathfinder used in 2006 with 109,000 miles on it. Since then I have put another 100,000 miles on it, driven back and forth across the country 3 times and used my car frequently in off road/snowy conditions. I treat my cars pretty roughly, but Pathfinder never gave me any problems. If you are looking for a reliable truck that performs excellently in snow and off road conditions this could be a great car for you. She is a reliable commuter car, but does not get great MPG. Beware, though, the 99 comes in a 99.5 model. This means that finding the right parts can be a bit laborious - it seems as if Nissan mixed and matched parts when they made the 99.5.