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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  Pathfinder - 1998 Nissan Pathfinder
  By vmi82 - April 14 - 10:00 am

  It was extremely dependable, but not as good as others on gas.

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  Another Winner - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By pathman - April 14 - 10:00 am

  Im a dedicated Maxima driver but with kids now, our last purchase required more room. Ive had our Pathfinder for over a year now. Im very impressed with the performance. It negotiates the snowiest hills of NH and the deepest sands of the beach without effort. Yes, it chows a lot more gas than Id like, but so do all the vehicles in this class... hopefully a gas/electric hybrid SUV is in Nissans future. Ford is about to release the first SUV hybrid as an Escape model. Speaking of Ford, I must comment on Angr1s review and choice to trade his Pathfinder for an Explorer!? Before I drove Maximas, I drove T-Birds. Good luck with your F.O.R.D (fix or repair daily)!

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  Another Winner - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Pathman - April 14 - 10:00 am

  Im a dedicated Maxima driver but with kids now, our last purchase required more room. Ive had our Pathfinder for over a year now. Im very impressed with the performance. It negotiates the snowiest hills of NH and the deepest sands of the beach without effort. Yes, it chows a lot more gas than Id like, but so do all the vehicles in this class... hopefully a gas/electric hybrid SUV is in Nissans future. Ford is about to release the first SUV hybrid as an Escape model. Speaking of Ford, I must comment on Angr1s review and choice to trade his Pathfinder for an Explorer!? Before I drove Maximas, I drove T-Birds. Good luck with your F.O.R.D (fix or repair daily)!

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  Nissan - 1995 Nissan Pathfinder
  By ANNETTE - April 14 - 9:16 am

  I Have had my pathfinder since day one, and it is so hard for me to give it up now, I have had "NO PROBLEMS" with it, I have over 175,000 miles and still going, I added the remote start to it and changed the radio to have a cd player,i am in the process of selling it and the trust is in excellent shape for being over 10 yrs old. inside and out, I wish that nissan kept the same body style but they changed it. I recommend Nissan. I had this truck in service just about every 3K miles and can say that is why i have had no problems with it.

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  Better than a 4runner - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Happy Pathfinder Guy - April 11 - 9:36 am

  I just traded in my 1996 limited 4runner on a new 2006 pathfinder se and boy I am happy. I am a dedicated Toyota fan but when I compared the new 4runner to the pathfinder it was an easy choice. The interior design of the pathfinder is totally superior, especially if you need a third row. What was toyota thinking with the fold up seats? Also the performance of the pathfinder is like a sports car vs toyotas sluggish performance. The overall value of the SE with the comfort and perfomance package just is awesome - just check out the bose 10 speaker stereo...

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  Living it up - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By themightyquinn - April 10 - 2:10 am

  Have had no problems, great look and ride. Quality is good, had some trouble with buying. First was sold a 2 wheel drive offroad and when we asked if it was 4X4 they told us it was. Well we found out the hard way it was 2WD. We ended up getting pulled out by a Chevy Suburban :( Very embarassed the dealership found us another one with exactly what we wanted and we couldnt be happier. And we got it for cheaper than the 2WD Off Road Trap. Word of Advice stay AWAY from the 2WD. And why would they make a 2WD offroad version? Kinda defeats the purpose.

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  Transmission Warranty - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Earl - April 8 - 12:36 pm

  I was looking at this site and seen there are alot of the same problems out there that I have seen in my 5 years of ownership. Just last year I had a new transmission put into my 58,000 mile Pathfinder and it was covered under the 5/60,000 warranty which should be a coverage that every dealer should be able to act on. Alot of these transmission problems are a result of the Radiator cooling lines are collapsing not allowing the tranny to be cooled therefore this is a manufacture issue and should be corrected especially if the vehicle is within the warranty period.

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  Tough truck - 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
  By joebeau - April 8 - 6:13 am

  2nd Pathfinder I have owned. Sold the 1st one due to high miles (175+) and body rust in the rear and on the rear floor. This truck is tough, powerful and practical. It does really well off road (I go off road several times a year)

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  Great Nissan! - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By cecep - April 7 - 2:00 am

  I brought my nissan used with 22000 miles on it and its been trouble free great power averge fuel economy and styish SUV! BUY ONE!!!!!!!

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  Great Truck - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By JeepSucks - April 7 - 2:00 am

  Replaced a 98 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, there is no comparison. The Pathfinder rides and performs better than the Jeep and the reliability is no contest. I would recommend this truck to anyone. The ride is more like a Maxima than a truck.