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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  Most Reliable Vehicle Ever - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Janet Love - April 30 - 6:56 am

  Bought my 2000 Pathfinder in 2001 used w/12K miles. Not one single problem ever. Of course, I do regular oil changes and suggested maintenance. Ive owned Toyotas, Hondas and Chevys. Very comfortable, love the Bose sound system, sunroof. Leather seats still like new.

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  Great SUV - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By j - April 26 - 11:06 am

  Great SUV, mine has 74k on it and I pound on it. Everything in my car is original except the tires which wore down at 65k. Still on original brakes battery and everything else. Drives more like a truck then a car. Interior is well laid out and I haul a lot of stuff to sports tourneys etc. Never had a real problem (knock on fake burlwood). Great ride and reliable, only annoyance is the constant problems with the tire pressure sensors (o ring is too small and tears causing a small leak whenever it gets cold). Fuel economy stinks, 15mpg no matter how I drive.

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  Just upgraded - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By S.J. - April 26 - 2:00 am

  97 SE to a 03 LE. The added horsepower is great. Truck is 2 weeks and it needs a new power sunroof motor. Otherwise, the overall design and features of the LE model are well worth the price, invoice that is. Gas mileage could use some improvement but its an SUV what did you expect. Our final decision came down to the Pathfinder vs. the Lincoln Aviator. The Aviator had all the bells and whistles, but its still a Ford product and resale value compared to a Nissan will make you realize that eventually. I would definitely recommend this truck if you are looking for a reliable vehicle thats fun to drive and holds its value.

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  First Pathfinder - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Pathfinder One - April 25 - 10:00 am

  I tried the Explorer, Grand Cherokee,and others (even the non- truck SUVs,these are fine if you dont need the capabilities of a truck). I found the Pathfinder SE to be the best overall value (excellent reliabilty record was a big factor). The build is solid and of high quality. I have had it 3 weeks and I like it more each time I drive it. $1000 under invoice and 0.9 financing didnt hurt, either!

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  2014 Platinum -excellent so far - 2014 Nissan Pathfinder
  By azawisza - April 21 - 4:01 pm

  I have only had it for almost 300 miles now, but it drives very well. It is a great ride, super comfortable and loaded with features. If you spend the extra money and get the Platinum model with all the extra features, you will be happy that you did. Hopefully wont have any of the transmission issues, but looking forward to taking it on a road trip in the near future to see how it does for a long haul drive.

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  Jeep to Pathfinder - 2007 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Anna Logan - April 21 - 1:30 pm

  We purchased a 2007 Nissan Pathfinder LE for the comfort & luxury of a family vehicle. It has been a great vehicle for us so far. I had been driving a Jeep since 1985 and it was really difficult to finally make that decision to switch, but now am loving the comfort and quietness for the pathfinder.

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  more power - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By t lehman - April 20 - 7:23 pm

  i have a 99 pathfinder and the new pathfinder is so much more enjoyable especially with the addtional power. The all wheel drive was excellant on the ice and snow, seems even better than the 4wd

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  Change - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By KATHIE BOSH - April 20 - 10:30 am

  Rear seats that go up and down do lock very good , not enough places to store things, when driving in the wind feels like going to tip over bose radio not very good has very bad sound

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  Just bought 2013 Pathfinder - 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
  By keenoo - April 16 - 2:45 pm

  I have been reading the latest reviews on the 2013 Pathfinder and find them a bit disappointing. I bought mine yesterday and have 25 miles on it. I hope and pray I DO NOT have transmissions problems! I have been through transmission issues with a 2002 Ford Explorer and they were never rectified. I fell in love with this car after driving the Infiniti JX. I have the fully loaded Platinum. We read the reviews prior to buying and were so worried that the dealer included the 7yrs, 100,000 miles coverage on the engine and transmission. I hope the issues are in the minority and do not show up with me. If they do I hope Nissan can rectify the problem and take care of their customers.

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  95 Pathfinder is dependable - 1995 Nissan Pathfinder
  By bill7 - April 16 - 10:00 am

  I have owed my 1995 Nissan Pathfinder for just over 9 years. I have owed 7 different brand vehicles (BMW, SAAB, Toyota, Chevy, GMC, Mazda, and Ford) and it, by far, has been the best quality and dependable vehicle I have owed (a close second was the Toyota owned). I intend to drive it until it stops, which by the way it is running, will be a while.