Nissan Pathfinder Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.35/5 Average
1,678 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 491 through 500 of 1,678.00
  • I DIDNT FIT (DID NOT BUY) - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    I DID ALL MY HOMEWORK. CONSUMERS REPORT,EDMUNDS.COM. I WENT TO PURCHASE A LE. ALTHOUGH I DO NOT LIKE LEATHER , THE LE HAD IT SO I COULD GET POWER SEATS.IT ALSO HAD A SUN ROOF (A MUST HAVE). IM 64" AND 195 LBS. THERE WAS NO ROOM! MY HEAD TOUCHED THE ROOF & MY LEGS WERE CRAMPED UP UNDER THE STEERING WEEL WITH NO ROOM ON EITHER SIDE.

  • very happy with my pathfinder - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    excellent car, comfortable, spacious, it takes a lot of gas, $45, now that gas is at $2.70 gallon but i drive for 7 days, very good looking truck. I cant get enough of it!

  • What a nightmare! Nissan Reliability? No - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    By reviews,either your Nissan has been perfect or a nightmare- like mine. I am a bit confused as mine reads like the story of all the others with the same repairs. So far-Evap canister rusted out.Fuel Sending unit failed Someone on here replaced FOUR of them and Nissan will not acknowledge it as a problem(check out NHSTA on this one though how this is not a huge safety issue is beyond me)Two U-joints replaced to no aval to cure vibration that happens when I decelerate at high speeds. Dealer can not figure it out. Coming home today after the ABS unit failed.Brakes have squeaked at different times since day one. Dealer said..."dusty" or "just Nissan" Nissan Corporate does not act/return calls

  • ? - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    I have a 2005 pathfinder and everything squeaks no major motor problems at 60 k I have 24 inch rims and tires on back rear out of line will eat up tires and the truck makes a million noises and eats gas but very reliable....

  • Steady and Reliable - 2010 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    My third one, had an 05, an 07 and now a 10. Love the Pathfinders. I have an LE this time so a little more plush inside. I am a contractor and use this for work so carry lots of tools and materials, no problem carrying the load. When it clean up it cleans up good. Gas mileage isnt great but other than that I can honestly say non of the Pathfinders that I have owned have ever let me down. Excellent build quality and would highly recommend.

  • One of the Best SUV I had - 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    We just got 2013 Pathfinder SL with Premium Package and we love it. It drives like car and room inside is great. We test dove the JX, MDX, Highlander and Pilot at the end we went with Nissan I dont regreted one bit. SUV is comfy and fuel economy is best. We keep it on 2WD all the time and we are getting combine 22.5 miles per gallon. If you drive on AUTO mode gas miles is around 21 combine so we keep it on 2WD unless we needed. We had 2010 Pilot leased for 3 years Pathfinder drives better and more rommer inside. Also it is much easy to get to the 3rd row

  • FUN - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT IT.

  • Most Reliable 4X4 built ! - 1995 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    I bought this truck used in 97 with 30K on it. I have never had any problems with it! I mean none, other than brakes, tires I have had no problems. Its not the fastest out there but who needs speeding tickets. Drives great on the highway at 70mph. If you want a great 4X4 that wont give you headaches this is the one to buy.

  • Speedometer NOT work at 55+mph - 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    After one month I bought the car, the speedometer does not work when speed at 55mph and above. The dealer said that the Unified Processor needs to replace. However, the part in back order is still not available since Sept. 20. I called Nissan about this and they said they would do something for me and would call me back, but they never did. Their cars are bad. Their customer services are bad. Another minor problem is that the driver seat makes noise when turning. I will never buy Nissan again! Hope your car is good.

  • So far, so good! - 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    This is my second Nissan - my last vehicle was an Xterra and we were looking for a bit more room and towing capacity. My husband didnt particularly like the looks of the Pathfinder (though I like it a lot!), but it was a great deal since the new 05 models are arriving and dealers are working to get the 04s off their lots. My Xterra was very reliable and fun to drive, and the Pathfinder is the same, but with more power and comfort features. We tow our motorcycles to local race-tracks and look forward to the added power. If the 4-wheel drive system is as effective as the one on my Xterra, it should be great to drive in the snowy mountains this winter when we go snowboarding.

Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area