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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  handles great - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By jevon - July 13 - 10:33 pm

  going from a jeep cherokee to a 05 pathfinder, i thought the pathfinder would be heavier and handling would suffer. WRONG, the pathfinder handles excellent and doesnt feel like 4600lbs. you cant beat nissan build quality. the SE OFF ROAD has a beefier suspension and guard plates underneath and not to be totally rugged i got the leather package.

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  Sold on Nissan - 1998 Nissan Pathfinder
  By mmsr4 - July 13 - 10:00 am

  I am the second owner and a first time owner of a nissan. I have only bought subarus. Living in Maine the 4wd has come in handy since we spend a lot of time driving off road and on snow covered roads. For an SUV the gas millage isnt bad, I think if u drive conservativly its fine.I drove 612 mi(avg.75mph) and started w/ a full tank I only had to stop once for gas.The ride is very comfortable and the interrior appealing. I have found with a full load (5 passengers & 2 lg.dogs) bumps and leans are more pronounced. I had some bad tires during that time so maby that contributed to the ride quality. New tires and a much better ride now

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  200o Pathfinder - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Jeffmck - July 13 - 10:00 am

  The Pathfinder has more than exceeded my expectations for comfort and reliability. Driving 35,000 miles plus per year have exposed this vehicle to every southern road condition possible. I have always been pleased with the performance and on road extreme road handling. At 87,000 miles typical maintenance and the purchase of tires have been my expenditures. I have averaged 20.5 MPG on the interstate and 16 MPG around town. Only negative response is the hard ride and limited legroom in the back seat area.

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  Has been a good SUV - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By rotti92201 - July 13 - 7:16 am

  Enjoyed leasing this SUV... Gets smaller as the family grows!!!!!! Very dependable SUV, never had a problem.

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  It still rides - 1995 Nissan Pathfinder
  By tonio - July 2 - 11:50 am

  I love my truck. When I drive other cars, sure I love the zippiness of them, but when I get back in my truck, I love the feel of being in command of a ...truck. I feel right with the world. I have 209,000 miles on my truck.

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  luv my pathfinder - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By kevin c - July 2 - 2:00 am

  great vehicle. leased but considering the buyout. roomy, comfortable ride. love the digital temp control and compass/outside temp display. best vehicle ive ever had

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  I waited before deciding to review .... - 2014 Nissan Pathfinder
  By woody35 - June 23 - 2:05 am

  Had heard about the shuddering challenges, decided to purchase anyway - alas, at low miles it started to shudder, talked to my dealer and was told it was nothing ..... On a road trip to Canada it got to the point I was ready to return the vehicle once we got home. Called Nissan directly who directed me to the nearest dealer, who identified, addressed and fixed the problem within hours! Only have good things to say about them. LOVE this car, it offers everything plus more! I researched the rest, then purchased the best! Ride, comfort, features OUTSTANDING.

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  Great and fun to drive - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Marie - June 22 - 5:40 am

  I really love this SUV, it is great in the snow and looks stylish as well. I have never had one problem since I bought it, the only thing we had to do was replace the tires and get the usual maintenance.

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  Best for $$ by far... - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Perfectionist - June 16 - 1:10 am

  We bought a "stripped" 4wd SE and feel you cant get more SUV for the money. We just returned from a ski trip to VT and this thing provided a perfect balance between handling, power, and 4WD ability all for $26k out the door. The 4Runner is about $3500 more similarly optioned, and even then it lacks what you get in the Pathfinder. Build quality on ours is excellent, no rattles etc.. It is clearly not a car based SUV, but rides as good as a real chassis based SUV possibly can. Buy a Murano if you want a car...if you want something that can tow, go off-road et al then buy this.

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  Awesome SUV - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By DebbieS - June 15 - 10:13 pm

  Fun to drive, great pick up power as well as high speed power, this SUV will get out of its way if need be, no concerns there. Loaded with extra features, lots of room for all the extras with a large family. Mileage could be better. Overall would buy again in a heartbeat!!!