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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  Pathfinder Radiator leak into Tranny - 2006 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Donna from Lanc PA - June 5 - 10:00 am

  I purchased a brand new Pathfinder in 2006. A few days ago, the engine light came on. I took it to Apple York Nissan(n/c the customer service in Lancaster PA is TERRIBLE) and they informed me that I need a new transmission and radiator. I looked this up online and it happens that many people have come across this. I have a HARD time swallowing the fact that I need to shell out $5900 for a car that is not even 5 years old! Does Nisan stand by ts cars? Hell no! Would I EVER buy from them again? Hell NO! Customer service was downright awful in Lancaster. York was better. This seems to be a ongoing prob with Nissan, I have researched this prob and many people have had it...its time

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  Do Your Research - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Mike - May 31 - 10:20 am

  Have not had any problems until recently; 4wd and ecu, fuel pump, etc. We think this is due to the beefy 4wd and transfer casing on this model taken from the Titan/armada. Working fine one day and then 12+ error codes on the diagnostic the next. It is probably not Nissan itself, but Rather the ecu unit malfunctioning. Personally, I find this car to be solid, well-built and stylish for the category. Its no escalade or Land Rover, but performs better where it counts. Buy a warranty on any vehicle that has a "new" anything for a model year. We got the gold-preferred, so 99.9% of the car is covered, and we did this because this was the first v8 year. Glad we did.

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  2002 Pathfinder - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By PathfinderLover - May 30 - 10:00 am

  The 2002 Nissan Pathfinder is a force to be wreckend with. Its an excellent perfomer-on and off-road. Great SUV!!!

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  2001 - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By zues - May 30 - 10:00 am

  Great car! Needs better excelleration from it.

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  Pathfinder - 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Godwin Duru - May 29 - 6:16 am

  This SUV is compact and seats 7 comfortably. The drive is smooth and comfortable. Handles well on curves. The instrumentation is very visible and within reach. Excellent driver visibility.

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  super bulletproof - 2008 Nissan Pathfinder
  By addy - May 29 - 2:00 am

  This is my 2nd Pathfinder. Used them for company vehicles. 08 has 132,000 miles and 06 has 185,000. Cant wear them out. Cheap to maintain also due to no timing belt (chain). Super reliable, durable. Engine goes and goes. Body integrity is super! much better than the big Armadas made. So much better than anything I have driven. Fuel mileage from 18-23. Pulls everything I hook up to it. Very comfortable seating position.

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  Love this vehicle - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By lit - May 25 - 3:26 am

  I purchased with 33k and Im now at 156k with no major problems. The car runs like the day I purchased and is extremely comfortable. I will say its not great for tall people. All my brothers and my husband are at or over 6 2" and their heads are skimming the roof. My cd player died about 6 mo ago but I still have the tape and radio (and a 2 year old so when do I listen to my own music anyway?). I dont complain about the mileage either. What do you expect for a truck? I will say this: my last long highway trip I did get 20 mpg (for the 2nd time) but usually Im at 17+ around town. Im not sure what Im going to do when I have to buy a replacement!

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  More than I expected - 2002 Nissan Pathfinder
  By Got Sake? - May 24 - 10:00 am

  I originally wanted an SE with leather, sunroof, and CD...but my wife wanted the entertainment package for the kids...so I asked the dealer to locate a truck for me...He had in stock the LE with all the extras I wanted, and the navigation system, which I did not want. I researched all the internet sites, including Edmunds and arrived at an invoice price of just over $34,700. I started the negotating of the truck at $32,600.00, because I didnt want the navigation in the truck so I decided split the cost with him on the navigation, because you dont get something for nothing and it was already there. I picked up the truck for $32,200.00

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  HAPPY NISSAN OWNER - 2001 Nissan Pathfinder
  By BIGAL - May 24 - 10:00 am

  THE CAR IS A VERY SMOOTH RIDEING 4X4. THEY SHOULD TRY TO IMPROVE THE FUEL MILEAGE. CAR HAS PLENY OF POWER

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  DO NOT BUY A NISSAN - 2007 Nissan Pathfinder
  By brownjen8 - May 23 - 11:22 am

  I have a 2007 Nissan Pathfinder. I too have the same problem with radiator & transmission. I called Nissan and they will not help me because I have 103,000 miles on it. The lady I talked to was Jacenta (sp) and she told me that I did have 103,000 miles on it so they couldnt help me and hung up on me. Obviously Nissan feels that a transmission should only last 80,000 miles and if their faulty mechanics cause antifreeze to ruin your transmission they should not be held responsible. I wonder if any CEO of Nissan would take a gallon of antifreeze and dump into their transmission? That is exactly what Nissan is doing and it usually happens around the 100,000 mark from what I hear.