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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  Not for 3+ kids - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Kim - January 20 - 9:33 am

  When my husband and I first bought this we only had 2 kids, then came #3. First of all, I cannot fit all 3 of their carseats in the middle seat, I have to put my oldest in the back seat which means she has to step on the middle seat to get in the back because thats the only access because the other 2 car seats are in the middle, also the seats are extremely uncomfortable, after Ive been driving for about 40 minutes I notice just how uncomfortable

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  I absolutely love this Pathfinder - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By MBro - January 18 - 10:00 am

  I just bought this 2000 LE from my Aunt, Ive been loving every second of it. This vehicle has plenty of storage, versatility, and luxury features. Its loaded with everything they had at that time. Even with 153,000 miles it still sounds brand new, and no one believes me when I tell them that it has that many miles.

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  Huge disappointment - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Robert - January 18 - 10:00 am

  I bought it with 87,000 miles and did all the due diligence with a weekend test drive, private mechanic checkout and carfax. Vehicle was a 1-owner trade and exceptionally clean. Nothing but a disappointment. Cat converters, O2 sensor issues, mass air flow, tie rod ends and wheel bearings were replaced a year later. CD changer doesnt work, bad o-ring oil seals, overheats in hot weather due to an air pocket in the cooling system the dealer couldnt even clear out, windows move slowly, transmission slips in cold weather. Looks like the exhaust resonator I put on is its 3rd one. Fan amplifier control module burned out. Left side sits a bit low so I suspect a bad strut.

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  Path a perfect pick! - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Dame - January 12 - 1:30 pm

  Last year, my wife and I traded our sorry Ford Focus for a 2002 Pathfinder, and I must say, they step up has been huge! Ive always wanted a truck, but needed one now because of the birth of our second child. The truck has proved to be extremely reliable, handling last winters snow storm with no drama. Its also decent on the open road. We go back and forth between PA and NY, and the car handles I-95 wonderfully, as it does Canal Street traffic. Anyone who knows Canal Street knows that it can be unbearable on an engine during a hot summer day, idling while trying to get through the tunnel. The interior is also decent, with full power and access. It was a solid purchase!

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  An excellent *sport* *utility* vehicle - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By doesnotmatter - January 12 - 10:00 am

  An excellent vehicle with lots of towing power. Has better acceleration with our 3500lb boat than our last vehicle had without the boat. Very strong and smooth engine, no other vehicle compares in this category. Wish it was a little bigger and had load leveling in the rear - the back suspension is a little soft. Back seat doors are a little tough to get in & out. After 12000 miles Im still very happy with my carefully made decision. Comfortable - decent trip vehicle. Stock tires hydroplane easily.

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  hope this is the one - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By spotbearaz - January 12 - 10:00 am

  I drove it after driving every SUV/Hybrid thing their was out there at least three times, and I was sold.It had power and poise and 4Low to boot! Plus is was not gonna take me an hour to wash it or rearage/rebuild my garage to store it.(I also walked away from the Highlander due to numerous complaints about deafening noises with the rear windows rolled down..they were right)check out CARREVIEWS.COM good reviews from actual long term owners and not kids that seem to infultrate this one..sorry edmunds, but I dont agree with your mid-size comparison.. You should of used an LE version.

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  Awesomely reliable - 1995 Nissan Pathfinder
  By xepathfinder - January 12 - 2:00 am

  96000 trouble free miles, never sees a garage except for oil changes. Could not ask for a better machine, great in the snow, really decent on the highway. Very comfortable for even 1000 miles trips.

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  LOVE MY CHOICE! - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By path27 - January 12 - 2:00 am

  If youre looking for the best SUV under 30K, this is DEFINITELY the car. Leading engine in its class, rugged yet stylish looks, roomy interior, EXCELLENT VALUE for the price, easy AND LOTS OF FUN to drive. Hybrid on-road/off-road claim is justified. Feels like a sedan on the highway/can handle almost anything you give it off-road as well. 4Runner and Cherokee dont match it overall

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  Nissan quality sinks - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By welshy - January 11 - 2:00 am

  Extremely problematic and the reviews dont tell the issues that this generation is experiencing. Problems to date at mile occurred Fuel sending unit 57K Front U -Joint 57k Catalytic converters (all) 71K Engine 75k (due to converter failure, pieces got into the engine) transmission failure do to design issue with radiator (class action lawsuit pending, I have luckily not had this issue to date)

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  nissan quality - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By bill sivi - January 6 - 10:00 am

  i bought new le in nov. put 1000 miles on, changed oil, hooked up 2500# mcycle trailer and 1000 mi to fla. put 3000 mi on in fla. hooked up trailer and headed home. 4000 mi and not one problem.