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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  STAY AWAY!!!! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By abradach - March 8 - 12:23 am

  Do not buy this car, i got mine a year ago from a nissan dealership and now i have the problem everybody else has with this car: the radiator coolant leaking into the transmission. now the radiator has to be replace along with the transmission. (thousands of dollars). they extended the warranty up to 80,000 miles, but this problem usually happens around 85,000 like mine. this was figured out only after spending about $1000 on useless repairs the nissan mechanics kept guessing at. This car has drained me and i will NEVER buy anything from Nissan again!!!

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  love it! - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By coler1978 - March 7 - 12:23 pm

  We bought the LE with Navigation a month ago and we love it. Very comfortable, versatile and stylish. We shopped for a new car for over a year and just couldnt find what we wanted - finally we settled on this and we dont regret it.

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  Almost Perfect - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Kiyyap - March 7 - 10:00 am

  I have owned 4 pathfinders. A 1993,1997,2001, and now a 2002 LE 4WD, purchased in February. The 2002 is by far the best car I have ever owned. It has plenty of HP and speed. The engine is enjoyable after about 5K miles. Why? I dont know. My only complaint is that the rear seats are uncomfortable as is taking things in and out of the rear seating area (car seats).

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  Fast in its class - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Chris - March 6 - 11:06 pm

  I purchased my 2005 Nissan Pathfinder 1/2005 just last week I noticed a rust at the back door panel which i called the dealership and scheduled for an appointment. They should make the cabin more quiter, everytime you step on the gas pedal you can hear the roar of the engine but overall i like it got lots of power .

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  Survived - 1998 Nissan Pathfinder
  By survivor - March 5 - 12:16 pm

  I did not have this car for long before I was in a wreck. Overall though, I would reccomend this car to anyone as long as they could pay the gas. One of the safest cars I have been in. Hit by an eighteen wheel on dirvers side. Airbags didnt go off. We suspect it was too much of a side impact to set them. Probably would have caused more injury if they did. Walked away with two minor cuts ( very minor...didnt know they were there until my mind could process what had just happened) and a slightly fractured shoulder. The fracture didnt keep me from using my arm though. Wreck was caused by my own stupidity. had car for only 3 months.

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  My beautiful Nissan - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By aidanrm - March 2 - 10:00 am

  I had done alot of research before purchasing my 2003 LE and all signs pointed to it being the best SUV in its class. After one test drive I was hooked. The interior is extremely classy w/ heated leather seats, 6 disc in dash cd player and climate control. The audio controls on the driver steering wheel are extremely appreciated. It also has reclining back seats which will have all my friends wanting to take long trips in my car. The pickup on this vehicle is amazing. It handles bumpy roads and turns with graceful ease. Outside noise is also very limited.

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  I love Pathfinder - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By AJIT SINGH - March 2 - 10:00 am

  This is an amzing vehicle. Go for it without thinking twice.

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  This is a great car - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By thedawk - March 1 - 9:36 am

  My family and I love this car. It is absolutely great for taking on a trip. There seems to be plenty of room for a small family and any gear you want to take with you. I think this is the most comfortable car I have ever owned. We had a 95 pathfinder before this one and this one is 100% better. I pulled a 3500 lb. load with it and it handled it great. I dont have any problems with the rear seat being too small, but we have only one kid back there. This car is the perfect size, large enough to pack a family in and travel but small enough to drive around town easily and park easily.

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  Fun ride - 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
  By nerdbasher - February 28 - 7:29 pm

  We have had it for a month now. We had a 4 hour trip to see family and with a head wind for much of it still got just over 24 MPGs! We can slide the second row back so our two kids in car seats dont kick the back of my seat. Getting nieces and nephews into the 3rd row is nice because you can just slide the middle row up even with a big carseat! The transmission was a concern, lots of people moaning and groaning there. It feels different, BECAUSE IT IS DIFFERENT.The "stutter" described is likely just a result of inconsistent pressure on the gas when accelerating. I have tried to get the tranny to act up and if I press down, then let up then press down again it "transitions" gears but no prob

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  no problems here - 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
  By augie - February 21 - 2:23 am

  I bought our 1997 Pathfinder new in 1998. Got a good deal on it. As our spare vehicle we only drove it about 4,000 miles a year the first 8 years. That all changed when our daughter started driving. She doubled the mileage in 3 years. It has had the normal things replaced/repaired. The A/C evaporator is the biggest so far. Im very comfortable with our daughter driving it full time. It has to be inspected next month and if we get bad news we may look around at some other SUVs. We cant afford another Pathfinder. That Hyundai 10 year 100,000 power train warranty is looking pretty good.