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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  Loved it! - 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
  By prodigy1 - November 4 - 6:40 am

  I bought my pathfinder used for $3500 and it had 160k miles on it. It was the base model with a/c and a Manuel trans. It was rough around the edges but the interior had held up amazingly. Everything on the inside looked in mint condition. The a/c still worked great. The 4wd was amazing and functioned perfectly. I was rough on this truck but it never gave me any issues. Fitted a snorkel to it and hurricane season was no problem for me. It would go through anything! Overall a great truck. It was reliable and durable. I handed it down to my sister and she killed it by way of not changing the oil. It had 221k miles.

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  Great All Around Truck - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By CB from AZ - November 2 - 4:03 am

  I have had my Pathfinder for 2 months, and put 2k miles on it. So far it has been great. Amazing power for a vehicle of this size. Comfort levels that rival the crossover SUVs. It is the perfect size for my family (3+2 large dogs). Very versatile interior- had seven people in it for a short trip w/no complaints. Mine has a slight vibration related rattle from the drivers window (noticeable only on relatively smooth roads). Other than that, build quality is very good. I am getting 16 mpg in the city, and 20 mpg on the highway.

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  great drive/poor gas mileage - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
  By smartymarty - November 1 - 2:00 am

  suv is solid,tight after 150k miles.drives as new.mileage is 16 no matter how fast or where I go. It pulls my 20 cobia boat adaquately. It needs more horsepower.

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  Great Deal on Pathfinder - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By bman33 - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Shopped the Pathfinder against Honda Pilot, Hyundai Santa Fe, Ford Escape. No comparison. Pathfinder had a cheaper lease, better equipment, more power and nicer ride than all the above. We were able to land a 2002 SE automatic w/ Popular package, mats, in-cabin filter for $27,000.

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  Fantastic Car - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By stinger_bee - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Overall a fantastic SUV. As with others, I cant say enough about the new V6. Tons of power and acceleration even at high speeds. The interior is nice but, as with other Nissans I have seen, has been "cheapened" up. The headroom is a little tight. Im only 6 0" and my head is touching the roof unless I lay back the seat. Only other complaint is that the side mirrors are not integrated with the memory seeting.

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  Japanese Quality??? - 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
  By maherjp - October 27 - 10:00 am

  I had the thing in 3 times under warranty fixing o2 sensors. What do you know when it came out of warranty I was back in. Now I have to fix the throttle body. the mechanic says he has never seen it in 15 years...I guess I will be the only one complaining about that, but it stinks to be me. I know its old, but I have sunk well over $1,000 already and have an estimate for another $1,500. I wont ever buy an Nissan again and I think the maximas are awesome.

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  Nice duds - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By potter1021 - October 25 - 10:00 am

  Just purchased an 02 LE. Love it. Had a Honda prior- a lease. DONT EVER LEASE. I made that mistake 3.5 yrs ago. My Pathfinder has all the perks. Smooth ride. Substantial power when I need it. Averages better gas mileage than advertised, 4-5 miles better. Nissan should revise the mpg to 19/23. Excellent vehicle to start a family with.

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  After One Week In Our New 02 Pathfinder - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By ChicagoPathfinder - October 25 - 10:00 am

  After a week with our new Pathfinder LE I must admit that Im very impressed overall. I also heavily considered the Toyota 4Runner, Infinity QX4 (almost the same vehicle as the Pathfinder), and Lexus RX300. Build quality is excellent. Performance excellent! Price was less than the Lexus and the Toyota. Drives more like a car than a truck. Not the most attractive of the bunch (the 4Runner is better looking). However, the 240 HP engine and towing capacity (tows my 2500 lb boat) put the Pathfinder well over the others. Even without the towing capability I would have chosen it though.

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  I did like it - 2007 Nissan Pathfinder
  By half and half - October 24 - 11:13 pm

  I bought the truck with a whole 25 miles on it. I love the power and performance this thing puts out. Its great and its so comfortable. The heated seats are great and so is the individual climate control. I would like to say the Bose is great but most of the time its broken. Im now on the 3 head deck because all the ones before have just broken. Not to mention the air conditioning went out. I took it into the dealer, they said they fixed it but the second I pulled out of the dealer it went out again. The problem still hasnt stopped. Just yesterday I went to start it and it wouldnt turn over. I talked to the dealer today and theyre telling me the electronics are fried so Im stuck in a rental.

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  Nice ride - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Paul Hitchcock - October 23 - 1:26 pm

  This is my first suv after owning 2 bmw 3 series. I really miss the bmw. I love the power and looks but do not like the gas mpg. But thats what you get with a suv. For the 1st suv I have owned I really like it. I wished that I got the premium package tho.