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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Great SUV - 2010 Nissan Pathfinder
By alex - August 6 - 9:13 pmWe traded in our 2006 3.5L V6 Nissan Altima, and decided to stay will Nissan as our Altima gave us no problems. So we went to our local dealer and they said that they didnt have any Pathfinders in our color or trim level (SE). So we placed a deposit and the next day we got our Pathfinder. I have to admit, I love this SUV, we took the car on an 800 Mile road trip, the day after we got it. The car drove smoothly and was extremely quiet. Fuel economy is not great, however we are getting more than the EPA estimate. The SUV is great but there are some quality issues with this SUV. The materials feel and look cheap and the dashboard panels are misaligned. Other than that, We love our Pathfinder!
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I love absolutely love my Pathfinder - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
By Jay - August 6 - 9:10 amI read tons of these reviews, on Edmunds, did a lot of research, etc. It seems that most of you people simply have horrible dealerships. Traded in my 05 350z for my Pathy, and Im not one bit sorry. Was looking at the 4runner, but that interior was archaic. The Pathfinder is smooth, has a great leather interior, awesome handling and the rear view cam on the SE is GREAT! 3rd row stays folded down - we dont need it, and its laughable anyhow. We bought the dog-cage divider and rubber mat for the cargo room aftermarket; exceptional car for the money -- we are VERY pleased with it! No tranny prob here (yet!)
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Great SUV - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
By Steve - August 5 - 3:06 amBought used in 2002 at 61k miles. It has been a pleasure to own, reliable, comfortable and fun to drive. Very smooth in the city and highway and you cant beat it in the snow. Go for the SE or LE for style,leather, heated seats, bose stereo. Gas mileage is typical for an SUV. Engine is improved in 1999.5. Struts replaced at 70k miles.
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Good SUV - 1998 Nissan Pathfinder
By Sean S. - July 29 - 5:06 amIve owned this one for almost 6 years and have been quite pleased. Powertrain is rock solid with no issues. I have replaced water pump, timing belt, starter, alternator, brakes, struts and exhaust. All things I consider maintenance and not done until the last couple years. Access to back seats is awkward, several people have hit their heads getting in. The gas mileage stinks which is expected. The engine is somewhat underpowered but wouldnt trade it for the reliability. The ride is decent, a little stiff but its an SUV. Front seats are comfy and the flip down rear seats give you a lot of room to haul.
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Great truck! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
By tony - July 28 - 6:50 amAfter 3 yrs and 40k, no issues or problems. Gas mileage is 15 mpg in winter and 17 mpg in summer. Still runs like a champ, great in bad weather, Nice on long trips. The Bose stereo is one of the best factory units Ive had. Overall, a win!
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And i almost bought a chevy tahoe - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
By john johnson - July 26 - 8:00 amthis is my first ever suv and wow!! what a truck. This suv is such a pleasure to drive for long hauls or even just setting in downtown chicagos traffic. the great take aways frome this suv is outstanding comfort for the drive. Im 62" and i can set comfortably in the back seat with out adjusting the front seat. And man does this monster move, i was blown away that its only a 6 clinder. i can honestly say the second and third row seats are extremely easy to move and figure out how to use. well i love my truck and nissan has a new fan!!! oh and by the way this truck has a great center of gravity, you wont feel any weird rolling motions from making turns.
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Great SUV - 1998 Nissan Pathfinder
By Mario Guerero - July 21 - 7:26 amI love this vehicle and you will too if you love the outdoors or hauling thing from the hardware store or the mall. Easy to park, and fun to drive, will get another one when the time comes.
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Love The Engine - Hate The Manufacturer - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
By MRB - July 21 - 2:00 am25 months and 60K+ miles. Love that Nissan engine. But rattling windows, turbo sensor problem on trans, 2 oxygen sensors, and 7 trips to the dealership to sort all this out have really soured the experience. The selling dealership provided poor service but I have found another dealer who has been just fantastic. I was hoping to get 200K miles from this vehicle but I do not foresee that. Thank goodness I got an extended warranty from Nissan. Looking to replace it now. Where is that great reliability reputation when you need it. My dealings with Nissan have been very unsatisfactory, especially on an I30 I also own (dealer problem cars great).
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The best truck around people - 2007 Nissan Pathfinder
By The best truck aroun - July 19 - 8:06 pmI never had a truck before purchasing my 2007 Pathfinder. I always had American vehicles since I was 16 well I am 30 now and thought it might be a good idea to get a truck and boy I am sure glad I did our last winter was the worst winter weve had in a long time I love playing in the snow and climbing tall mounds of snow just to see how far I can push it, it never got me stuck its the best and most comforatble/relieble truck ever and its stylish and very preppy. Its meant for people who have great style and class I have not had any problems what so ever and the ride is smooth and comfortable with a third row seat the running boards make it look great and its got great take off for a v6.
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great value - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
By Not2bad - July 15 - 2:00 amThis is my first suv,and this truck is very well rounded.It has a good solid ride,and it handles well.The build quality is very good,and it has lots of comfort.the cloth is very high quality and even though the driver seat is not power,it has a lot of adjustment options.Stereo/cd sounds good ,but could use a subwoofer.Heater is a little weak on floor setting.
