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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  Just got it!!! - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By fasani - June 14 - 10:11 pm

  I just got a 2000 Nissan Pathfinder with just 70k miles. I made my first family trip and we drove about 2k miles with no issues. Geat familiy car, and it was exactly what I was looking for.

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  Fuel Sending Unit - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Grunt - June 13 - 10:00 am

  Just paid $560 for the fuel sending unit and Nissan must do a recall as they know it is a problem part. If I dont get reimbursed in the next 6 months I will trade it and never buy another Nissan again. Also have problems with the service engine light going off when no problem exists and that cost me $50 on 3 different occasions.

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  the swiss army knife of the road - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By scottinky - June 9 - 2:00 am

  I just got my truck a week and a half ago, I love it! I went from a Mustang GT to this, and I am not longing for more peformance. This SUV is very comfortable to sit in and drive. It has already proven its worth in some wintery weather. i look forward to having it in the family for a very long time!

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  Better with 2001 - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By MattM - June 7 - 10:00 am

  I bought it new as it seemed like the best value compared to domestics or the Toyota. As it is heavy, the back end can slip on corners (especially on ice). It consumes a lot of gas and is underpowered. On the up side it is very reliable and quite comfortable. I think they improved it in 2001.

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  Gotta love this truck - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By nemoret - June 7 - 10:00 am

  This is my first SUV and I absolutely love it. The ride is smoother than any car Ive ever owned. The fit and finish is beyond reproach. Ive had the truck for 4 weeks now and cannot find a single defect, not a squeak, rattle or non-functional anything. Incredibly quiet. Id buy another today if I could.

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  Great rig - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By PathyGuy - June 3 - 7:33 pm

  Bought this new and thought it was fine. After 6 years of only doing minimal maintenance, this thing rocks. With limited slip diff and old fashioned 4x4 (which I prefer), this thing can plow thru any snow and even does better than most others trucks/SUVs in icy conditions. Just get some good aggressive tires for offroading or deep snow.

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  Great SUV - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By shane - June 2 - 8:16 pm

  Without a doubt this SUV is a winner. I have tested many vehicles off-road and I always favored a Pathfinder. My wife wouldnt go for the 4x4, therefore I was forced to live with the 4x2. In my opinion it is the best mid-large SUV for the buck.

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  Pathfinder - 1998 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Firmin - June 2 - 2:00 am

  Very reliable, no warranty claims in nearly six years of ownership. Good paint.

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  Frustrated with our new Pathfinder Platinum - 2014 Nissan Pathfinder
  By happygma - June 1 - 7:27 am

  We were so excited to finally purchase our new Pathfinder. Three days later it started sputtering. We took it in to the dealer and they said it was the tourque converter, it took 2 weeks to get the part in. When we got it back it was still doing the same thing. We took it back in and they said it was the transmission. They replaced the transmission with a "re-manufactured" part. The dealership has been fantastic, but trying to get through to the executive Nissan office has been a nightmare. We are really afraid of what is to come.

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  Love It! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By REALTOR - May 30 - 7:43 pm

  First time SUV owner... love the space. Like sitting high above the crowd. Extremely comfortable. Great ventilation. Lots of pep. Easy to handle. "They" say: Once youve stepped "UP", youll never come down!