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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  Towing with a Manual Clutch - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Deb Milo - May 7 - 10:00 am

  I bought a new Pathfinder SE 4WD with stick this year. Next I bought a horse. With 240hp, I knew I had plenty of power to tow a double horse trailer with two horses. Not true. Did you know that the manual transmission is rated at 3500 lbs. towing capacity while the auto is rated at 5000 lbs. ? Go figure ! What can I do ?

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  Best suv that money can buy - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By andrey & molly - May 4 - 5:20 pm

  we moved from FL to IN with 2 RWD cars and my wife wanted another SUV for the winter. we also have a 96 Pathfinder with 145K miles.....NO PROBLEMS AT ALL. the natural choice was another pathfinder....but to be fair, we looked at all others and compared. 4Runner, Explorer, Xterra, Trailblazer, etc. Only the Xterra came close. We chose the Pathfinder because of the extra room and could not be more happy. She offers to drive everywhere....ITS LIKE I GOT A CHAUFFER!!!!

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  Great SUV - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By skelly - April 25 - 2:00 am

  This is my 4th SUV and By far my favorite. Driven a 4runner, wrangler, and 2 Grand Cherokees and none of these even comes close to how much I enjoy driving this Pathfinder. Just wish that I had test drove one sooner. Also able to knock $4800.00 off of the sticker.

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  My last Nissan - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By StevenC - April 21 - 7:50 pm

  I am very sorry to say my 2006 Nissan Pathfinder will be my last Nissan vehicle. After owning this truck only 3.5 years, it has left me on the side of the road thumbing for a ride one too many times. The most recent repair is a new transmission for $4500. In my transmission research, I discovered that this was the only year model that Nissan used this particular transmission. They know there is a problem, but will not recall the vehicle. I am extremely disappointed. Before the pathfinder, I owned a Nissan Maxima and it ran like a champ and still is to this day. I will never own a Nissan product again!

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  OK Vehicle - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
  By dave - April 21 - 8:20 am

  I have overall been happy with my vehicle. Fuel economy is poor and HP is low, but it is fairly comfortable and has been reliable. My only mechanical problem has been a check engine light that read out as an oxygen sensor failure.

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  New Owner - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By USCbigJake - April 20 - 7:00 am

  The people at Mossey were fabulous. Ive had the car a little oer a week and I love driving it. Previously, I had a Honda Pilot which was excellent. The Pathfinder, although a bit smaller (at least it seems that way) has more horsepower and torque. So far I like it as much as my pilot.

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  THIS is my 2nd Pathfinder. AWESOME!!! - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By sciteach27 - April 19 - 2:00 am

  I have a 2001 Pathfinder. We just bought our 2nd , a 2003 SE loaded with options. These are the best quality SUvs on the market, U can;t beat it.

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  Solid - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By BigPapi - April 18 - 9:06 pm

  Wonderful engine/performance, really jumps. Pilot interior better, but floor shifter preferable. Plastic scratches more than expected. No dash/fob button for rear hatch unforgivable, but split window nice. Back seats not as roomy as youd think. Bose system is great. Mileage has yet to reach 15 mpg, but am using mid-grade gas so far, more like 13mpg @ 1500k. Anti-lock very sudden, almost violent. No rattling or squeaks! Could use lumbar support.

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  Love and miss - 2016 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Love you Nissan/Miss you!! - April 17 - 12:59 am

  Had the 2016 Nissan Platinum and traded for a Mini Van...I dont know what I was thinking. And Ill be back Nissan..dont change anything!!!! I cant even express how much I loved the 360 cam, Bose, heated second seats and a/c front seats, controls on the steering wheel for everything!!! I could go on with so many more features!!! Movable second row with car seats in!! Never was a Nissan fan, but owned it and now miss it!!! It has even more stuff and comfort..dare I say it...then the MDX. Listen, go test drive this first and then test drive your other options and youll go back to this! We have owned Acura, Honda, GMC, Subaru, Infiniti, Jeep, you name it we have owned it and other then the Subaru having minimal space...I would actually return to this vehicle in a second! Pathfinder was a great vehicle in 2000/2002 but it got cheap in the later 2009/2010 and now its back its roots. Nice job Niss, Ill be back!

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  Cool blue Pathfinder - 2016 Nissan Pathfinder
  By mike birch - April 15 - 6:27 am