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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  Best SUV - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Lea - September 9 - 10:00 am

  Love it, feel safe in it, not too big or too small, its a gas eater though

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  Can go anywhere - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By erox - September 6 - 3:40 am

  Within one week of owning the pathfinder we had a snow storm and it did exceptionally well in 10 inches of snow. Also, did great going up mud hills. It basically exceeded my every expectation of a nissan product. For fans of nissan, how could you not get one of these.

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  Back to Old Faithful......... - 1998 Nissan Pathfinder
  By my 2¢ - September 4 - 10:00 am

  I wrote a previous review back in April. Although I had bought a luxury suv as a replacement for my Pathfinder, I still had not sold it and it was sitting on a consignment lot for over six months. The war with Iraq had just started and being that we lived near a military area, car sales were in a slump. Luckily, this all worked out to my advantage. Being so unhappy with my so called luxury suv I decided to sell it and reclaim my old faithful Pathfinder. I am happy to say that I am back in the drivers seat again and loving every minute of it. Live and learn.

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  My first SUV - 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Twash - September 4 - 10:00 am

  So far this car has been a great vehicle to own. Small exhust leak, had to replace a pipe coming from engine. $125.00 It seems to be the part of the exhust thatis not stainless steel of rust proof.Great trucf for the winter, FWD is reliable. I did notice that my front bumper (Medal) has begun to rust. I would purchase another.

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  One of the Best SUVs there is - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By PATHFINDER RULES - September 4 - 10:00 am

  i went car shopping and i new i wanted a suv but did not know what kind. i looked at the 2002 Honda cr-v. bad move the cr-v is cheep looking. it should be called a car not suv what a joke. i looked at the pathfinder and it is the best suv in the snow,rain,sun. i will always get a NISSAN PATHFINDER

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  made glad - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By jdiner - August 28 - 11:40 pm

  Initial sqeak in dash quickly corrected by dealer-[the emergency brake pedal/lever required lubrication]. Everything since Perfect! Have previously owned two 4 runners, a pathfinder and an envoy-all good! The 06 pathfinder clearly The Best!

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  WOW! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Lorena - August 15 - 5:23 pm

  I purchased this truck almost new with only 4,000 miles on it. I have yet to find something about it that I dont like. Ive used the 4wd and it was really great in handling and safety. If anyone is looking for a solid built, great looking and fun to drive SUV, look no further.

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  Overall Good SUV - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By razzz00 - August 15 - 10:00 am

  Overall my initial impression of this vehicle is very good. I looked at the Toyota Highlander and Chevy TrailBlazer. As a past Super Chevy sportster it was hard not to go with the Chevy but the reliability concerned me. The highlander was a minivan dressed to look like a SUV. The Pathfinder was a true truck buy didnt ride or handle like one. I only have two issues at this point. First, there appears to be excessive play in the drive train. Second, the Bose stereo is underpowered and has disappointing sound quality. I am not a radio blaster but you need to hear the radio when your on the road with the windows down. The in dash 6 CD changer is nice.

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  Nissan Pathfinder - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By James - August 15 - 2:13 am

  This is a really nice vehicle. Style, gas milage, inside room. Too bad its directional stability (wandering) affects the driving of rhe vehicle. Violent shaking when hitting bumps and the rear suspension bottoms out. Ive had the rear leaf springs replaced by Nissan, but it did not improve the suspension. Nissan NA and their "lead" mechanics acknowledge that the wandering and shaking happen, but they say that is the characteristic of the vehicle. It is a safety concern that they are not addressing. Fix the steering and suspension and this is a delight vehicle to own.

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  1999.5 One of the Few - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Barbara - August 6 - 12:13 pm

  We bought this new in 1999 and the models ran out, so Nissan created a 1999.5 with a brochure and everything, but it is a 2000 model SE with the 16 inch wheels.Its gold and with the pipe step racks. Never had any serious repairs, i.e. no timing belts, struts, etc. Change the oil every 5000 miles with the filter and purchased new tires only once in 77,000 miles. Great room in the back and seats 5 comfortably. Extremely comfortable inside and not as big overall as the new ones that look and drive like tanks. The mileage is 18 to 20 on the highway, but 16 around town, but regular gas. Its been a great SUV with a Bose system thrown in when we bought it at no charge.