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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MPG - 2012 Nissan Pathfinder
By mrcarp - October 31 - 2:48 pm...continued...Towed about 1,500 lbs. of rocks for 4 hours through the Adirondacks on Sunday and achieved an admirable 19.4 mpgs. The auto-shift is great and worked smooth going up the some of the steeper hills. Parked next to a relatively new Grand Cherokee on the ferry and the PF dwarfed it even loaded down with suitcases and the trailer.
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The Best - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
By Little Rock - October 31 - 8:40 amThis is the best SUV Ive driven. I have owned 3 Ford Explorers and will never go back. Before buying I test drove the 4-Runner, but it was a lot rougher.
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Best In Class - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
By RONH - October 25 - 1:20 amCouldnt find a better deal on a mid- size Suv. Wanted the base model with few options as it had everything I wanted. Negotiated my price on the internet,even my trade in, and the dealer stuck with it,great buying experience.Very happy with my choice after driving it for 3 weeks now.Smooth powerful engine,ride is not comprised for nimble handling,construction seems tight and has good quality materials. Gas mileage is a little better than expected at about 20mpg in around town driving. The exterior styling which I thought was too radical is even begining to grow on me!
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Build quality issue - 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
By anazar - October 19 - 8:05 pmWe bought the new 2013 Nissan Pathfinder (SL version 45K) in January/13. By now, the SUV broke down 4 times: transmission hose fell off (the car had to be towed), overdrive did not work from the beginning, front lights burnt out, trunk door rubbed paint off the car due to bad alignment. All of these are manufacturing defects. We highly recommend this vehicle if you like to drive dirty service cars or unsuccessfully deal with Nissan Customer Service. Nissan is very proud of their design and manufacturing and believe that there is nothing wrong with the vehicle. Bravo Nissan Canada!
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Checking in-passed 100K - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
By chuckfromli - October 19 - 3:03 pmMaybe I am reviewing this thing too often, LOL. Just wanted to check in as it passed 100K a month ago. Havent had to put any money into it lately, but did put about $2500 into it in 2007-2008. It got new wheel bearings all around, a new pulley, new timing belt and water pump, new exhaust, sway bar bushings, and the differential fluid changed. That was a lot of money for two years, but it hadnt really needed much until it got to be about 7 years old and had 80K on it or so. I think that pretty good. Any old car is going to need repairs. Also, I retired and now I realize that the gas mileage stinks, LOL! All those years I was driving mostly highway and getting 16. Now its all suburban and 11
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Love it! - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
By newride75 - October 18 - 11:43 amTraded my 04 Envoy XL for PF SE V8 and absolutely love it! Didnt want to leave GMC, but their replacement (Acadia) is way overpriced and not appealing. The PF looks better, is a better ride, and has plenty of room for 3 toddler seats and 1 infant car seat. The V8 is very powerful and accelerates quickly. Standard features are great, and the option packages (Premium and Side Airbags) were all we needed. I havent had any transmission or shifting concerns with 4,500 miles on this PF.
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Pathfinder Is A Solid Vehicle! - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
By Nissaned - October 15 - 7:10 amIts a fun car to drive. The 3rd row seating is good if your riders are small kids. Do not try to pack granny or teenagers in the 3rd row. Also, there is limited leg room in the 2nd seat. But everything else about this vehicle is great. It is extremely responsive both in acceleration and manueverability. And it is a very comfortable road car. The only real drawback about this vehicle is that (I didnt do my homework) it requires premium gasoline. Oh, it will run "ok" on mid-range - but its worth pointing out. Its otherwise a solid car and I would buy another one. Oh yes, spend the extra money and get the sunroof. It will be even more fun to drive.
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So happy brought another one - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
By Lisicles - October 13 - 8:56 pmThis is smooth riding vehicle - I bought it for the dogs, and they love it :) We travel around the county to shows and this vehicle is everything and more - WAY more power than the Tahoe we tested at the same time.
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I love nissans - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
By Chrisderryberry - October 13 - 3:33 pmThis is my 3rd Pathfinder. I love them. The purchase and the ownership are great and was great with all three SUVs.
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Great SUV - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
By Joe - October 12 - 11:13 amThis vehicle is the best, in my opinion of all vehicles in its class. With roomy interior and a very handsome exterior, Nissan went over and above in the Pathfinder design. I also own a Titan, which I normally pull my 23 foot, 4000 pound, wakeboard boat with. One day I decided to use the Pathfinder, I was impressed! It pulls with ease. Much better quality in all features than the Envoy, and Pilot, way better than Durango and Jeep. This thing is solid! Its the perfect combination of a powerful SUV, sporty handling and quickness. On the highway smooth and quiet. Fuel economy is better than I expected. I believe this is the SUV the other manufacturers try to copy.
