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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  Delivered Broken - 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
  By smain - July 5 - 1:20 am

  Front air bag system not working 5 days in shop waiting for parts Rear seat heaters not working- missed during PDI Process Not a good start.

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  Almost 1 year and 7500 miles later... - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By bd70 - July 3 - 10:00 am

  Im still enjoying my ride like I did when I purchased it. Leather interior is great. Real wood would be great but the plastic wood still warms up the interior. Put some quality floor mats in and a cargo mat, youre ready to go. I put on the front brush and rear taillight guards and it LOOKS a bit more rugged. I wouldnt count on them for protection. The new 17" rims are a good improvement but are really easy to scratch on the curb. People complain about the rear seat, but Im driving so I dont care, and my passengers never complain. I also like the styling inside and out, even if it is a bit dated on the outside. Still a good-looking vehicle.

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  Moon mileage. - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Tom - July 1 - 10:00 am

  The fuel pump failed the third week of ownership and I thought uh-oh. But that turned out to be the last major problem thus far, 251,000 miles later. Most reliable car Ive ever owned. Have used 15w-50 synthetic oil every 6k miles and drain the 4 qt of transmission fluid out of the automatic every 30k and everything still works, except for the CD player. Mileage is now only around 19 with gasohol,

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  It stole a Toyota buyer!!! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Mike - July 1 - 2:36 am

  I really love this SUV. We researched them all and this was the best "value". The ride is extremely comfortable. I took it to work in the snow on our third day with it and was completely impressed. The VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) was tested out extensively and I was amazed at how well it performed. I couldnt make it go into an uncontrolled slide. Youll feel comfortable with your family riding in it. I compared the SE to the Off road and the off-road had a little bit stiffer feel but not in a bad way. I think the regular SE might have been a little soft to take on the dirt.

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  Wish I hadnt and wont again. - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Auburn - June 29 - 2:33 pm

  It is not a well-built vehicle. Cheap plastic inside breaks, CD player kaput at 40k, washer fluid reservoir cracked and leaks out, fuel-sending unit/gauge out at 45k (Nissan hasnt included 05 in the recall of 06 and 08s -thanks for nothing- even though they know its a defect), and now a problem with my transmission at 71k. Cant seem to get a specific diagnosis yet but I can guess what it is ---radiator leaking into the trans? Nissan hasnt paid for the fuel s.u. or recalled the defective part(s) leading to the trans failure. This was my 3rd Nissan. Time to trade and never buy Nissan again.

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  3 words- Affordability, Luxurious, Economical! - 2014 Nissan Pathfinder
  By biodiesel2 - June 27 - 10:10 pm

  1. Affordability - Priced $10k to $20k under all other premium based Hybrid SUVs. 2. Luxurious - a very quiet and smooth ride. Leg and head room galore. Has everything even the heated and cooled leather seats front and heated seats back. 3. Economical- Rated with an all around MPG of 26. First tank full of gas resulted in a city/highway drive mix 29 MPG. 4. Stylish- The Pathfinder just looks good! 5. I am still amazed and surprised with all the appointments. I love this car! I am Happy! Happy!

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  176,000 miles and still going... - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By ccmercer - June 27 - 6:52 pm

  I bought my Pathfinder new in 2006. With two kids and my job, Im constantly on the road. This SUV has lead up to its name. Its been everywhere. I keep the oil changed regularly, on my 3rd set of tires & brakes. It does a great job. Other than the typical wear issues, the only thing I can complain about is the 93 octane fuel requirement. With gas prices as high as they are, its not unusual to pay $60+ for a tank of gas. I tried the 87 octane the first year, and I did not like the performance. I went back to 93 octane and havent changed. Ive had nine vehicles in my life, and this is the only car Ive driven that has never given me problems. Its a great vehicle.

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  Always Nissan - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By niasmom2 - June 20 - 2:00 am

  Ive never bought a car unless it was American. I ;ove my pathfinder. Its sporty, handles good, and I bought it at a good price. But most of all it holds its value...thats important for trades.

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  good - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By micmkc64 - June 17 - 10:03 pm

  I have had no problems with my vehicle

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  What a vehicle!!! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By craig - June 16 - 1:13 am

  WOW!! We bought this for my wife to drive and this is our first SUV. She had a Bonneville with 225,000 miles on it so this was a change. We test drove everything and I mean EVERYTHING but decided on the Pathfinder. It was used but only had 2000 miles on it and we love it. Recently took it to Colorado for a ski trip and I was amazed at the power going up the mountains and we were loaded down with gear. It looks awesome and its a blast to drive. I might even get one for myself. One thing I absolutely DO NOT LIKE is the back cargo space. Its supposed to be "cleanable" but anything you put back there slides around. I have already had some things break cause they were sliding around.