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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  Transmission Problems with no fix - 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
  By mpom - August 3 - 9:05 am

  I purchased my 2013 Pathfinder in Nov of 2012, it began having the "shudder" fairly shortly after but I didnt acknowledge it for a while. As it continued to worsen, I brought it to the dealers attention. I was told they were aware but did not have a fix for it. I continued to mention it every time I brought the car in for service. I was finally told to call Nissan which is a joke. They sent me back to the dealer who has told me that for their protection they must be very careful with how they handle it. What about the $45,000 I spent. Where is my protection? I am considering hiring a lawyer....

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  Its all good, except.... - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By barakoutie - August 2 - 6:13 pm

  Overall, a great vehicle for my needs and preferences (more trucky than car- like, lots of power, all the amenities, etc.). Only knocks (mostly minor, in no order): cannot adjust seats to perfectly suit me, left wiper chatters, interior car panels are cheap and easy to mar, rear shocks bottom easily, can not raise 2nd row drivers side window from drivers seat (switch broken), gas mileage brutal around town, OEM tires not good, running boards too narrow (cant fit foot on them), heater heats ankles not feet, carpet is cheap, rear wheel noise invades cabin, climate control either 60 degrees (too cold) or 65 (too warm) with no in-between, hard to lift 3rd row seats from rear hatch.

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  Awesome SUV! - 1999 Nissan Pathfinder
  By edwardtx - July 31 - 10:00 am

  All I have got to say is that this is an awesome SUV! Bought this car 4 years ago and my wife and I still love it. Nothing like the Acura MDX that we have, but this is the next best SUV besides the MDX!

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  stylish - 2003 Nissan Pathfinder
  By pkmcd99 - July 30 - 1:40 am

  Finally an SUV with luxury options at an affordable price. 5 star safety is a welcomed bonus. love my Nissan, glad to rid my Jeep.

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  brakes need help - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By ike isakson - July 26 - 4:33 am

  like the vehicle, many user friendly features . but the brakes squeak every morning backing out of the garage. they also pull once in awhile sometimes left then right. been in shop 3 times for this,--say that it is abs brakes . auto light timer is set for 45 seconds with no adjustment. the remote in my pockets seems to always lock or sound alarm, cant get another remote.left window when partially down seems loose in track. seems like a few corrections could really improve this vehicle.

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  Shuddering transmission - 2014 Nissan Pathfinder
  By zborra - July 22 - 4:12 pm

  As others vehicle shudders at low speed but not consistenly and never in the shop and nor did our dearship know or ever heard of this problem. On recent vacation when our car was lowed to the nearest dealership, thats an enitely different story, we mentioned it to the service manager who know exactly what I was talking as soon as I said transmission problems. They have replace two transmissions already with the exact same issue. Conclusion is we mentioned it yet a third time to our local dealership who finally tried some thing revolutionary and looked up the problem on the internet! Finally agreed to address the issue. New transmission being installed as we speak.

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  Great Truck... - 2012 Nissan Pathfinder
  By jbw5 - July 22 - 6:24 am

  Awesome truck. Bought a brand-spankin new one Wednesday night and am happy. Took the family to the beach and was impressed with the ride and gas mileage on the freeway. My only real complaint about this thing is headlights. Very hard to see, even when using the high beams. The SatNav system is awesome as well as the information display. No USB port, but aux input is there. The overall fit and finish is really nice.. and the Nissan dealer I dealt with (Jenkins Nissan) was very accommodating and professional. People complain that this thing "rides like a truck," but thats WHAT IT IS. Its meant to be tossed around and used as such. If you want an SUV that comes with a purse, go buy a CR-V.

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  Great SUV - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By kevkelly - July 20 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I did extensive research online for reliability data, value, etc for the best used SUV. We narrowed our choices down to the Pathfinder (orQX4), the Highlander, and the MDX. After driving all of these vehicles, we decided the Pathfinder was by far the best deal. We couldnt be happier. The vehicle drives great and has fantastic acceleration. The navigation system has reliably taken us straight to each requested destination, and the entertainment system keeps my 2 year old happy (he now insists we take this vehicle everywhere). This is the 5th Nissan Ive owned, so I know reliability will be outstanding.

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  CVT problems - 2014 Nissan Pathfinder
  By pksuvan - July 17 - 3:37 am

  Purchased in April 2014 (same month vehicle was assembled). I was aware of the CVT issues before purchasing but hoped that Nissan had fixed the problem with newer builds. No such luck. Last weekend the problems began. Shudders, power loss, surging etc.. Pathfinder no longer safe to drive. Nissan replacing transmission under warranty. 19,000km on the odometer. No other complaints with this vehicle.

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  Best value in an SUV - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By suits - July 14 - 12:26 am

  this superior handling suv outperforms any in its class. and for the price!!, its unbeatable, you cant go wrong!! Andrew