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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Great SUV - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
By Jason - July 15 - 9:26 amI am in love with my new Pathfinder. I was torn between the Murano and the Pathfinder. The Pathfinder has so much interior room and still has tons of power when you need it.
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I love my Nissan - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
By snowhound - July 9 - 10:00 amNissan makes a great vehicle for a great price. The Vehicle does well overall in the rocks, dirt, snow, and pavement, as well as a 4 wheel drive can do without a locking differential. The performance is fantastic for its size and cost. The only problem I have had run into is with the airconditioning unit leaking out of an O ring. Factory warranty covered it. Unfortunately SUVs are getting uglier and uglier every year. I will not look forward to upgrading.
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The best of the best - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
By Happy PF Owner - July 9 - 10:00 amTraded my lousy ML320 for a new Pathfinder and love it. This is the best SUV out there and for the price. Ive looked at them all, and the only comparison would be a BMW X5. Save the money on an Infiniti and consider the Pathfinder. Same thing.
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Fun, Reliable but THIRSTY - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
By EAC J.D. - July 6 - 10:00 amSE model with 5-speed manual feels like a sports car. The SE has stiffer suspension and very little body roll Be aware that the 6 CD Bose system cannot be changed to aftermarket without replacing all of the speakers too. FUEL ECONOMY is os bad that I am considering trading in for an AWD car. My only quality complaint is the paint on the body plastics. chips from rocks lead to huge areas of flaked paint with just hose washing. If fuel was less expensive, I would love the Pathfinder a lot more.
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I love it! - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
By Abby C - July 6 - 9:46 amI bought my 03 Pathfinder in Aug 05 and ever since its been wonderful. Yeah, the gas mileage isnt anywhere near a hybrid --but if thats what youre looking for then buy a Civic. But my Pathfinder is great!! Ive never had any mechanical problems. The only problem I had was with the heat shields. They became rusted and was removed, but thats what I get for living in Chicago. Let me tell you, I absolutely HATE driving in the snow, but the 4WD helps a lot. I love the bose, heated seats, 6CD changer, programmable drivers seat, & everything else! My boyfriend was mad because I made the decision of buying this car without him, but he (being the car guy he is) even admits it was worth it!!
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Great steady SUV - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
By jeff-corease - July 4 - 10:00 amMy 2000 Nissan Pathfinder is Rock soild. My Pathfinder has 60000 miles already and other than regular scheduled maintenance I have only purchased a battery for this automobile. In fact I brought my wife a 2001 E Class Mercedes and she drives the Pathfinder everyday and not the Benz! She told me the Pathfinder is slow (3.3liter) but she (Pathfinder) feels soild and is dependable.
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nissan pathfinder LE - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
By Rothberg - July 4 - 10:00 amPerformance acceptable,Handeling excellent,much better than 97 explorer & 94 grand Cherokee. ride is truck like-seats much more comfortable in the explorer.construction is far superior than the other two vehicles. i have 55000 miles & the body is solid & the engine very s
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First Pathy....but not last - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
By Buzzo in NY - June 21 - 3:20 amI researched mid-sized SUVs for about six months before deciding to buy my Pathfinder. My comparisons were "whittled" down to the T4R, Acura MDX and NPF. Considering the MDX was about 10K more than I wanted to spend....then there were two. What ultimately made my decision easy was the financing Nissan offered and to date have not been disappointed. I only have about 7K miles on it and have not yet experienced any of the transmission "clunking" stated by other reviewers. One thing Im keeping an eye/ear on is the amount of engine vibration that exists between 4K and 5K RPM. It seems to smooth out closer to the redline. Extremely happy so far however...
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Love my PATHY - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
By PATHY - June 21 - 2:00 amWent with the Pathfinder for numerous reasons. Specifically- the reliability, resale value, looks, features, price and safety rating. Trailblazer-- yeah more power, but cheaply made-- Forerunner- yeah higher ground clearance, but overpriced and everyone has one. Price --got a Loaded LE with a few extra options for 31,9- thanks to edmonds online dealer invoicing. SAfety -- got numerous high ratings in many areas Resale value-- Have you looked in the paper for used Pathfinders? Very few and far between- b/c their owners love them so much.
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pathfinder - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
By gerald brother - June 18 - 3:26 pmexcellent vehicle! i own 8 cars and enjoy the 260 bhp nissan best! 5-speed manual makes this a very fun suv to drive. 0 defects...try that w a blazer, liberty, expoder, etc...
