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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  Paint peeling - 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
  By cue - July 8 - 10:00 am

  Upgraded to Nissan at the encouragement of my husband. Have owned since the end of December 2004. Great acceleration and performance. No longer have to stop several times during trips to stretch as the comfort level is very good. Downside is Contacted Nissan regarding Paint peeling but it is not considered under warranty.

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  Its my third pathfinder and i love them - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Connie Ehrke - July 7 - 1:00 am

  Weve been a Nissan family since 1993 (that was our first Pathfinder) they are so reliable and fun to drive. We just traded in our 2002 for 2005 (we leased) and Im loving it just like the last two! It has the third row of seats (which well probably never use) and they fold down so flat which is great and has more room then our 2002

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  One of best motor vehicles I have owned - 1998 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Fleetwood - July 4 - 2:00 am

  I have owned many cars, trucks, and motorcycles over many decades. Without reservation I can say that this Pathfinder is one of the very best vehicles I have ever owned. I would recommend both current and older Pathfinders to people who find superb reliability more important than e.t.s at the drag strip. The mileage is higher than one can rightfully expect from a truck framed 4WD vehicle with enough power to be a serious off and on rode ride with exceptional sure footedness.

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  Reliable Ride - 1995 Nissan Pathfinder
  By extreme_rnd - July 2 - 10:00 am

  This is the 4th new vehicle Ive had, and it has been the best! I agree that you can get a lemon from any make, I have leased a Nissan Quest which turned out to be a lemon (promptly returned). This car has seen a wrench only once in 7 years (brake pads), and has aged gracefully despite my harsh pounding.

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  Outdated interior style and door handles - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By cngchen - June 27 - 1:43 pm

  Nissan has the potential to build a quality vehicle with updated styling, but always seems uncreative in doing so. However, Honda has been successful in producing two best in class vehicles, notably the Acura TL and MDX, coming out on top in their category in last years comparison test, outscoring the BMW 330i sedan and the X5 3.0i SUV respectively.

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  More than i expected - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Jay - June 26 - 2:30 am

  The new 2005 pathfinder. i think, is the best redesign of any vehicle I have seen in years. Looks great, handles great, very spacious...of course, being an SUV with 270HP and 4500 lbs, it is pretty mediocre on gas mileage...love to drive it and get alot of looks from passerbys. Get the SE model at the least with Bose stereo, comfort and premium packages...well worth it. Got an incredible end of model year deal as well....

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  Great Vehicle - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Gassy - June 24 - 8:43 am

  This is a great vehicle that is hampered by some annoying flaws. Its powerful engine and rugged off road capability make it fun to drive. Highway driving is decent and the gas mileage is about as good as one would expect. The exterior styling of this model is perfect and its a shame that the newer models changed this. The interior is spacious and relatively comfortable. My two main complaints are the stock tires and the in-dash stereo. The tires offer terrible traction particularly in poor weather conditions and need to be replaced. The CD player is useless and was obviously made with a cheap laser which constantly skips.

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  Sweet Ride - 1998 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Paddler - June 24 - 4:03 am

  I previously owned a 94 nissan pathfinder that went to 308 thousand. So, I decided to try my hand with a 98 model and I love it. From the 94 to the 98 the ride is so much better. The 98 does really well off-road. Its an easy truck to accessorize with brush guard and racks. I use mine alot for kayaking which leads me all over the southeast and on some back wood trails where it performs both excellent on and off road. The mpg could be better though. I average around 15-16 mpg.

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  Transmission Torque Converter Issue - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Steve LeVesque - June 23 - 6:30 am

  When you take your foot off the accelerator just above 40 mph, the car downshifts with a noticeable thump. Then when you press the accelerator again, it upshifts with the same noticeable thump. It is so aggravating that I would not have bought the vehicle if I had known. I took it back to the dealer, they tested another 2008 and said that it was "normal." I did not have this problem in my 2005 at all. They said it was because they put a dual torque converter in the 2008 model. Also, it seems to be harder on gas than the 2005. And when I filled up the first time, I noticed a sticker on the inside of the gas cap door that reads "For best results, use premium gas." The 2005 did not say this.

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  Very Reliable Truck - 1995 Nissan Pathfinder
  By TBart69 - June 22 - 9:53 am

  One of my favorite things about my 1995 Nissan Pathfinder LE 4X4 is how rugged and reliable it is. Being 16 I have done a lot of stupid stuff to this truck and its still fine. It has a very good four wheel drive system but dont let it go to your head because I found out the hard way that it doesnt mean your invincible. When I first purchased my pathfinder I had a few things done. The Speedometer didnt work so I got that fixed, Changed the Transmission fluid, Changed the Oil and got new tires. I love my pathfinder and I made a great choice.