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 - 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
  By bk - April 2 - 10:53 pm

  I have owned 3 pathfinders along the way. First was a 1996 se, then went to a 2001 with the 3.5l and now I am back in a 1997. They all have been absolutely great vehicles! Never left me stranded anywhere, go through snow up to the bumpers, repairs are rare and they hold their value. The only complaint I had was going from my 1996 with 150,000 miles to the 2001 with 80,000 miles, I expected the same fuel mileage and was disappointed. A year later and I was back in the 1997 and regained some of the fuel mileage back again. This is a cant miss suv. Why pay thousands more for a 4 runner?

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  Transmission Issues - 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
  By ironjasper - April 2 - 6:57 am

  We bought our 13 Pathfinder SL 4WD in August of 2013. Within two months we started to feel the CVT Transmission shuddering under light throttle applications. We had the car in the shop four times for this issue, but they could never replicate the problem. After the shuddering started to become progressively worse and became a safety concern, we finally asked the dealer to buy the car back for the balance of our loan. Happily, they agreed, and we were given $6000 more than the Kelly Blue Book trade value. Other than the transmission issue, the car was very nice. It rode great and got very good MPG for a mid-sized CUV ....

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  Good Overal Package - 2009 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Rob S - April 1 - 12:00 pm

  I have owned this car for 2 problem free years. It has been very reliable, comfortable, and worry free. It is big and heavy but that doesnt hurt the handling that much (I have upside wheels that help as well) but it does impact fuel economy. I routinely get around 16 mpg around town. I am happy with the purchase and would probably do it again.

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  Good SUV despite Nissan - 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Gasoholic - April 1 - 2:00 am

  I bought this vehicle as a leftover demo. Its not that I havent liked the Pathfinder but it has at any given time had several repairs that needed to be done: *bolts broken off manifold/exhaust interface. I found out about it when they were replacing a valve between the fuel tank and engine that was broken. *new front brakes at 52K? *new clutch at 60K. *cracked struts at 65K with never more than light off-roading? These babies cost $1000 a piece to replace. *The climate control is clumsy and its either been too cold or too warm in the truck. Nissan needs to stop convincing itself that they are as good as Toyota and Honda.

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  Cant believe I almost DIDNT buy this SUV - 2014 Nissan Pathfinder
  By madagogo - March 31 - 3:41 am

  I have owned my Pathfinder Hybrid SL for over 2 months now, and the more I drive it, the more I love it. It is way more vehicle than I needed (thats why I almost walked away from getting it) but the dealer made me one of those offers that one would be stupid not to take...so I took it! Although the PF got only slightly better gas mileage than my old RAV4 in the beginning, I have discovered that I can get pretty awesome mileage around town by coasting as much as possible, not putting the pedal to the metal so much, and turning OFF the climate control whenever possible!! The first nice-weather day we had here in NY this spring, I had the windows open and got 29.7 mpg!

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  No Longer Loyal to Nissan - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Salukifan - March 30 - 2:53 pm

  My dealership just told me we need to replace timing chain for $1300.00 (71,000 mile). 1997 Maxima has 210,000 miles. Quality now not better than other brands. Will replace with Sequoia or GM/Ford product. Appears to be a problem they wont fix. Lost my loyalty!

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  Sophisticated and productive - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By DR - March 26 - 9:00 pm

  We purchased our Pathfinder a few months ago now, we have 4700 miles on it and Im affraid were gonna rack up the miles on this baby quick! Its fun to drive, our 4 yr old loves the roomy seats and 3rd row, there is more cargo space than most SUVs with 3rd row and it has great power. This SUV has been very functional when traveling and is great on gas. Only bothersome fact is the wind noise, but its not as bad as most people say it is. Wish they had polished wheels.

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  xmas2004 - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By mjbk - March 26 - 4:06 am

  This is my third Pathfinder. I leased two and purchase this new one! Love the reliability of this product. I like the larger size...more powerful engine.

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  2001 Pathfinder LE 4WD driving experienc - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By 01 Pathfinder LE - March 23 - 6:13 am

  This vehicle is fun to drive. It has a very ergonomic setting for gauges, sound system, and heating/cooling. It is very safe vehicle to be in when driving in all the seasons.

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  Great Used SUV - 2004 Nissan Pathfinder
  By timmer24can - March 23 - 12:43 am

  I was a big North American fan on SUVs but I decided to try Japanese. So I did my research and found that the Pathfinder was rated very high, I found one at a small used car lot and the rest is history....what a great SUV. Motor, Tranny, look and feel A1. I cant stop driving it.