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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  My pathfinder - 1998 Nissan Pathfinder
  By jacksonprinceis - June 15 - 10:00 am

  It been a fun car to drive and very stylish.

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  Love my Pathfinder - 1997 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Arons Mommy - June 13 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car new and have never had any problems with it. I did put bigger tires on it and it really helped make the ride better (it wobbled a little with the factory tires). It has never been in the shop and all I have done is change the oil in it. It still has the original brakes, although they are about to be changed, and I just had to replace the stereo system because the CD player finally gave up and I blew the speakers !!

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  AWESOME SUV! - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Cali_guy76 - June 8 - 9:43 pm

  I bought this SUV on 7 Nov and fell in love with it! My wife and myself looked at many other SUVs and found this one to be the best overall...You cant beat the price for what you get. We compared the Honda Pilot, Saturn Vue, and the Toyota 4Runner. The Pathfinder was better than all of them!!! We bought the Pathfinder SE with everything but the DVD and paid $27,700 +tax&lic. We love our Pathfinder and hope to keep it 10+ years!!!!

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  Natedog loves his Pathfinder - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Natron - June 6 - 2:00 am

  My first new automobile, and I went with the Pathfinder. I fell in love with it the first time I test drove it. I love everything on it, the interior, the conservative yet classy styling, and most of all the realiability. My dislikes are the pricetag for the LE wich I got, and the brakes seem a little jumpy. I looked at a lot of SUVs, but like I said this one by far was the best. It seemed like the Nissan dealer wouldnt go down much on price as would the Chevy dealer or Ford dealer, I guess the car sells itself.

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  Gotta Drive a Pathfinder - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By LRandall - June 6 - 2:00 am

  If you havent yet driven a Pathfinder you are missing out. The vehicle has excellent power, is very comfortable, etc... The 100+ Watt BOSE stereo system is amazing. After I installed a small subwoofer, I was blown away by how great it sounded. The gas mileage sucks although. I only get about 15 MPG on average.

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  Love my nissan - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Lynda Clark - June 4 - 1:53 pm

  I love this vehicle. When I wrecked my minivan and had to get a rental, we got a pathfinder. I instantly fell in love with it. It was comfortable, stylish, great on gas, and I felt safe.

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  2010 Pathfinder - 2010 Nissan Pathfinder
  By mandylouwho - June 3 - 3:03 pm

  I bought my Pathfinder after buying an Xterra that I wasnt happy with. The Pathfinder has none of that plastic trim around the bumbers. It has a wondeful amount of space. The gas mileage is not the best but that is to be expected from an SUV of this size. The third row seating easily folds down into the floor. The interior dashboard (radio area )is somewhat plain and could use some updating and sprucing up a bit.

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  Excellent for Families - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By 2005 Pathfinder - May 31 - 2:23 pm

  This SUV is really a godsend, I updated my 1999.5 Pathfinder to the 2005 and I have never been happier. The third row seat is excellent for carrying more passagers, and the design of the SUV allows for maximum comfort on long drives. The DVD player is awesome, mostly because I have gotten my readio back. The handling is great. The ride is quiet and it drives well. The engine is amazing. I really like that this vehicle is not a gas guzzler like my brothers Ford Expedition.

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  Suprised at Quality Glad I got Extra War - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By DRP - May 30 - 7:23 pm

  Upgraded from Xterra to pathfinder. The VDC and SLIP lights on the dash have gone on and off since I got it dealer couldnt find anything wrong. At 15K I had a flat tire and found out the jack would barely lift the car high enough to change the tire on a flat surface being that I was on the shoulder it would not lift the car high enough so I had to borrow another jack to finish the job, also the jack jammed fully extended and would not go down had to drive off it. The fuel sensor went at about 47K, I purchased a extd 10year warranty which covered repair. The tires and brakes will be replaced this week at 51K. I average 16.7 mpg. Fun to drive aspect wore off quick quite boring to drive now.

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  2006 Nissan Pathfinder - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By melyssa 75 - May 30 - 6:40 pm

  I bought this with fairly low miles 50k. It has a high idle with vibration under the driver seat when you start engine. Theres an exclamation symbol thats been on since two days after purchase. Ive taken it to get tires inflated but the symbol still remains. The steering is very hard ,seats are loose for some reason, when I turn I can feel it move. This vehicle aside from the steering being hard has a great takeoff,seating could be more spacious. The front seats are stiff and uncomfortable . The Bose stereo would be nice if the cd player would work. The stereo has static and bad reception and thats in town.This has been a total disappointment.