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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  Lacks Performance - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Solomon - October 12 - 7:23 am

  I previously owned a 2001 Pathfinder which was flawless, just too small. I upgraded to the new 2005 Pathfinder and I am very dissatisfied with the performance. Every time I accelerate past 20 miles per hour I hear rattling noises from the transmission. Once on the highway it runs well but cruising moderately through traffic is a nightmare. I like the spaciousness of the vehicle but in all honesty I am dissatisfied with performance.

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  This Pathfinder Is Outstanding! - 1998 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Sam01 - October 8 - 1:23 pm

  My 1998 Pathfinder has been a true pleasure to own. It has only had a few minor problems...Mostly while under warranty! It has been extremely reliable. I take my truck off roading in the mountains and it never fails to impress me at how well it handles off road trails. My only complaint is the lack of power. It actually isnt horrible as Ive lived with the motor for about 4 years now! You cant go wrong with this SUV and Boulder Nissan is a great store!

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  Still great after 5 years - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By SM - October 3 - 3:36 am

  After 5 years of ownership, still pleased. Have only done routine maintenance and changed tires and battery. Only issue being the 5 disc changer no longer working. Use iPod anyway, so non-issue. Performs well. Comfortable ride (well, it is a truck nor a sedan). Plenty of power. Used to drive 30 mile one way trips in Texas summer, now driven in Minnesota below zero winter, dependable either way.

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  New Pathfinder too Noisy - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By jogt - September 29 - 8:33 am

  I bought a new Pathfinder in November 2004. I had a 2001 Pathfinder which was too small so I was happy to upgrade to the new Pathfinder. I loved the spaciousness and exterior and the test drive was good. However now it makes more noise than my old station wagon. Whenever I accelerate past 20 miles I hear a rattling noise from the transmission. I spoke to my neighbor down the street who also has a Pathfinder and she is experiencing the same problem - noise during acceleration. I am extremely dissatisfied. I will never buy a Pathfinder again.

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  2011 Pathfinder - 2011 Nissan Pathfinder
  By sctrooper - September 28 - 8:34 am

  I was in the market for an SUV capable of hauling my recreational vehicles, carrying a few friends around, providing quality...all without breaking the bank. I wanted the Silver Edition for the features, and would not have settled for anything less. Edmunds provides an accurate review of the vehicle, which I agree with most points. The Pathfinder definitely has a "truck" feel when driving and a somewhat stiff ride. This is probably due to the fully boxed frame and the beefy suspension which helps allow the Pathfinder tow over 6000 lbs. The interior features make it feel more upscaled, which is common with Nissan. Overall, the Pathfinder is a versatile SUV, suitable for most needs.

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  last one - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By dont get it - September 25 - 2:00 am

  afte 3 of these babies, its time to move on.......big step down from the 1997 that I had.......the 1997 was bulletproof....yeah it lacked a few ponies, but it was perfect for what the vehicle was intended to do....the extra power has negatively affected its offroad capabilities and the build quality has taken a dive...no wheel shake like others have had, but at 27K this thing feels like its going to fall apart....lousy gas mileage and forced to usepremium to boot........ oh well, they killed a good vehicle

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  Solid Vehicle - 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Kevin - September 21 - 2:50 pm

  This was my second Pathfinder.I bought my Patherfinder with 47k miles from a local dealership and now have 117k miles. Other than the regular change of the timing belt at 100k miles, no real problems to speak of. Comfortable ride, looks great for a 8 year old vehicle! Only complaint is fuel economy; I have averaged around 15-16 mpg.

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  Smooth Vehicle - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Spraq - September 20 - 10:00 am

  We really enjoy this SUV. It is not as powerful as others, but it has enough power. The build quality is unmatched by anything Ive ever owned, driven, or ridden in. Outstanding quality, better to drive than the brand new Trailblazer we test-drove. And we bought it with 49k miles. The interior is as nice as my parents Mercedes SUV. Not as many gadgets, but as well constructed. My dad owned a Bravada with the same amount of miles a couple of years ago, and there is no comparison in quality. The Pathfinder may cost a little more, but well worth it. A++

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  Kids love it, so of course parents do - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By TREDN - September 18 - 3:33 pm

  Had for 6 weeks now and have over 2400 miles. Live in Canada and is great for winters. Kids love it as we got the top of the line with DVD player and they love to watch movies. Keeps them quiet on long trips. We love the Navigation system as it helps us from having to use a map and it tells you exactly where to go and how to get there. Used it several times already and it is dead-on. Just be careful, little towns or out of the way places do not have the streets listed, only main throughfares. As well, newer streets and points of interest are not included until upgrade.

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  **Warning**2005 Pathfinder Defect** - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Roger - September 17 - 7:36 pm

  I and many others who bought the new 2005 Pathfinder from the same dealership have found a defect with the exterior. The defect is found on many but not all new Pathfinders, so please inspect before you drive a new one off the dealer lot. On the drivers side [passenger] door, look at the top toward the windshield. The metal should slightly curve inward and be smooth and flush with the lines of the truck. However, on many, the curve has more of a pushed in (bent) look than flush with the lines of the truck. This does problem does not occur on the [drivers] door. So, please inspect carefully in the daylight before you purchase and drive that new 2005 Pathfinder home. Outside of this, I am happy.