Nissan Pathfinder Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.35/5 Average
1,678 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 731 through 740 of 1,678.00
  • Best SUV on the Market!!!!! - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
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    The Best and Safest Suv on the market!!!!!!! The day after Christmas (2002)I dropped my wife off at work and a tree broke in half totaling my Pathfinder (remember I am in it!)I was able to walk away from from my crushed Pathfinder. Needless to say, I went out and bought a brand new 2003 Pathfinder. Just Love the Nissan Products!!!!

  • Its the 4WD Maxima - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    I cant say enough good things about our 2001 Pathfinder. We were skeptical trading in a 1999 4Runner. This pathfinder Wins HANDS DOWN. Safe, nimble handling, much better gas mileage than the Toyota. We Just Love it. Two kids in car seats rinding in the back seat now, Golden Retriever in the way back. Two Kayaks on the roof. The Power and Handling are key. Great Feel for the road. The reliability is BULLETPROOF. My husband is on his 3rd Maxima and he prefers to drive the Pathfinder AKA the "4WD Maxima" Cheap Gas does not affect the power.

  • needs traction control - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    This SUV needs traction control.Spun tires an intersections with the front half of the vehicle in the way of oncoming traffic many times. Also doesnt handle well on wet roads. Was very fast but almost too fast for what it was (a light rear wheel drive truck) Used the 4WD in the rain. Enjoyed the truck at times and thought it was fun and sporty to drive but didnt feel secure in it. Didnt hold the road well. Also not roomy enough for our small family of 3 plus dog. Gas mileage wasnt great either for such a small truck. Just got rid of it after 7 months and moved on to an 02 Explorer. Much different ride. Wont miss the Pathfinder.

  • No blind-spot warning!!! - 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    This car is very comparable to the Infinity JX. The JX has some high technology features that are not offered in the Pathfinder, but costs about $9k more. One of these features is the blind-spot warning. Unfortunately, Nissan offers the blind-spot warning as an option in the Altima, but not in the Pathfinder.

  • Great SUV - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    So far I have only had it for 3 days now. I went out of town on business with it and it was an excellent ride. The leather quality is great and it looks very luxurious on the inside especially with the wood trim. I bought the LE, which is the loaded version minus DVD and nav. This SUV rides as smooth as a car. Very spacious and fun to drive. I bought this car over the 05 Toyota 4 runner. It was more stable and bigger than the toyota. Test drive the pathfinder before you consider anything else, you get a lot of features and styling for the money.

  • Best SUV I Have Owned - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    Fantastic vehicle. Great pickup. Great for towing. Very comfortable and every creature comfort you can imagine. Not one mechanical problem. This is by far the best SUV I have ever owned and will definitely purchase another one.

  • Total comfort - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    This is my first SUV. I never really considered a Pathfinder in the past because I thought of it as an off road vehicle, which I really didnt need. Then I sat in one at the NY Auto show and thought, this is really nice! I bought one and I love it. Though the gas mileage isnt the best, everything else about it outweighs that drawback. Its extremely comfortable, great handling, and has everything I would every need. My local dealer is great also. Very accommodating. So far, Im very pleased.

  • Sues Nissan - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    I have taken the vehicle in for all service as recommended. I have not had any major problems. I truly enjoy driving my Pathfinder. I would definitely buy another one.

  • asdasd - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    Excellent value, fun to drive, lots of room, better than expected on gas, nice styling, smooth ride, excellent brakes

  • Owned since new - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
    By -

    I have owned my Pathfinder LE since new when I bought it in early 07. I have not had any problems with it. It currently has 52K and change miles on it. I have not had the radiator failure like most people have, the brakes are still good. I did get the TPMS sensors replaced because the dealer broke one but they paid for it. I am glad I have this SUV and the fact that is is a 2006 it has more horsepower and torque than the later models, since Nissan detuned the 4.0l V6 so they can sell the V8. I have driven it cross country four times and it never gave me any problems.

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