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 - 2000 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Juelmarie - July 12 - 10:00 am

  I really like the car - my advise to anyone who buys it is - use the internet pricing. Dont let the dealer get ya. I dont like the door size to the back seats. Inside its okay in the back - front seat is very comfortable. Resale seems to be more than fair.

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  Happy Owner - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By pete - July 12 - 10:00 am

  paid $500 under invoice plus $1000 cash back. Dealer was excelent to deal with, had to do the usual haggle with my trade-in.Got alot of xtras with my deal. Dealer was part of Auto Nation and I was able to see the whole deal before I was presented papers. No hidden costs or fees.Five star rating to Brown & Brown in Tempe Arizona!! Been back a few times since and all I can say was its been along time since anyone held a door open for me at a car dealership!

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  Replaced 92 - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Wildflush - July 8 - 2:00 am

  Finally getting rid of my old 92 SE Patfinder with 148k miles. Loved my Pathfinder and had to stay brand loyal. Bought a used 01 LE and what a difference. The only thing I miss is the 4 wheel disc on the 92. The new one handles very well and I now have power on demand. More cargo room and extra compartments. Also a safer SUV with 4-airbags. Only issue so far is rear windows labor up and down. Needs lube on rubber window runners.

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  Mine has been great - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By MattMPG - July 7 - 5:00 am

  Ive been all over the eastern half of the USA in my Pathfinder and its been great. I didnt get any check engine lights until 150,000 miles. Im fixing the problem and keeping the truck until at least 200k. My Pathfinder is 7 years old and has no rattles and the suspension is still feels like a new car. My next car will be a Pathfinder.

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  Best SUV - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By danp - July 6 - 10:00 am

  This is the best SUV for the money. I had a number of GM SUVs and the Nissan quality is superior. Great power, quiet, and stylish. Only real drawback is the gas mileage. The resale value is also outstanding compared to any American SUV. For a few thousand more, get the LE - the added features are well worth it. Im sold on Nissans.

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  I made the right choice - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Gemi - July 5 - 8:56 am

  Having never owned A SUV, I did a lot of research. 240 HP, no longer an industry leader but plenty of power. 6 disk in dash Bose with stearing wheel controls!!!! WOW. I keep hearing about how cramped the backsteat is and..OK a little smaller than most but unless you are over 65" 250 lb it is fine. 1 touch up and down windows and sun roof:) You can even roll down the windows with the keyless entry:) This car makes me happy.

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  Not what i expected!!!! - 2016 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Ivan - July 4 - 3:23 pm

  the first thing that you have to know is that the bluetooth technology that is in the car is the worst! unless you want to spend an extra 10,000 dollars to get the fully loaded version, but then that would put you on high priced vehicle, and with that might price you might be able to get some thing with more luxury. The bluetooth capabilities are just to hear a phone call come in....that is it! You may ask.....what about audio streaming? NOPE, not available. you would have to buy a dongle/adapter for it or some audio cables that are going to be hanging out of your middle console, and look crappy. (yes im picky like that) i just feel that it is not worth the price. my 20,0000 nissan rougue had audio streaming; i paid twice as much for this one. I do not get navigation, so i have 6 BUTTONS from my stearing wheel to the control panel that do the same thing!....... and that is to change my radio station one up......really? I know that my review is mostly on the sound system ...and it is, but i like to go down to the details like these. When i purchased the car i asked if bluetooth was included and they said yes, but i never thought that it would be just for calls. when i told my dealer about the complaint, the sales guy said "yeah sometimes the cheaper cars have better feautures"....(wow) Also, nissan stated that they spent 6000 just on the entertaining system; mmmm i dont know, you would think that 6000 dollars can get you a higher quality screen for your dash board. there are also two "back" buttons, 2 "settings" buttons, 2 "info" buttons that alone is just 6 buttons wasted. i hope that this review makes sense to you, i do think that the car is a good reliable car, but after driving it for several months, i feel like it is not worth the money that i am paying on it.

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  Worse vehicle I have ever bought! - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Bon - July 4 - 12:43 pm

  I bought this vehicle after reading reviews on how good this vehicle was and on advice from other people - worse mistake I have made regarding a vehicle purchase. Picked up the car and within 35 miles the check engine light came on, took it back to the service department, they said they fixed it and 35 miles later, the check engine light was back on - stayed in the shop almost 2 weeks. Have had it home 1 month and it is back in the shop now because of some other problem. Ive had this car less than 2 months and its been in the shop more than Ive had it home!!!

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  Transmission/windows rattle - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By not happy - July 4 - 9:36 am

  This is our first Nissan after having two Toyotas. Big mistake for switching brands. Currently has 2,700 miles. The transmission at around 40 mph in and out of 5th gear starts bucking when youre on and off the gas. The windows rattle when they are down about 2 inches to halfway down. The service manager and Nissan engineer said they never heard of these problems before, what a joke. I showed them several of these reviews they had no comment. Everyone with any of these problems need to file a complaint with Nissan.

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  So far so good - 2009 Nissan Pathfinder
  By ncintoronto - July 1 - 10:00 am

  Thrilled with my purchase. Not concerned about the lack of space for passengers as all my passengers are under the age of 7. Lots of fun for the kids. And super comfy for us in the front. Had a wonderful drive from North to South.