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Nissan Pathfinder

EPA MPG: NA
Average Retail Price
$3,050 - $4,150

RECALL ALERT:
There are 9 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Road Test

The Pathfinder is essentially unchanged since 1996, evolutionary improvements over the years made it quicker, quieter and more capable. But a tight cabin and a so-so ride remained significant drawbacks for this version of the Nissan SUV.

For complete Road Test Report and to see Highs and Lows, become a member

2002 SUVs Reliability

No Data Available

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Marginal
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Marginal
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

Nissan vs. Other New Car Brands

Nissan vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Marginal
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

2002 Midsized SUVs 3-row Ratings

$3,050 - $4,150
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$3,350 - $3,750
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$3,100 - $4,600
economy-icon
EPA MPG 17 mpg
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$3,100 - $3,475
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$5,350 - $6,800
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
Features & Specs
Body Style
    4-door SUV
Seating
2 front, 3 rear
Drive Wheels
4WD, Rear
Engines Available
  • 3.5-liter V6 (250 hp)
  • 3.5-liter V6 (230 hp)
Transmissions Available
  • 5-speed manual
  • 4-speed automatic
Warranty
Coverage varies among versions of this vehicle

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

Read more about extended warranties
Model History
2022-
Current Generation

The three-row Pathfinder was redesigned for 2022 with a squared-off exterior, the latest infotainment technology, and an option for second-row captain's chairs. Overall, it's a significant improvement over its bland, clumsy predecessor. The 3.5-liter, 284-hp V6 now comes mated to a nine-speed automatic (replacing the previous CVT), together delivering smooth and effortless propulsion. The ride is steady if a bit stiff-legged, but handling is responsive for a midsized SUV. Controls are easy to use, thanks to physical buttons and knobs for commonly-used climate and infotainment functions. Many active safety and driver assist features come standard, including FCW, AEB with pedestrian detection, BSW, RCTW, and LDW. Nissan's ProPilot Assist active driving assistance system--which combines ACC and lane-centering--is optional.

2013-2020
2013 Redesign Year

Pathfinder went the crossover route for 2013, with a new car-based chassis. Off-road capability was sacrificed for better ride quality and a more comfortable interior. Power comes from Nissan's 3.5-liter V6 driving through a CVT. This SUV can tow 5,000 pounds and has a slick second row that can move forward even with a child seat installed, easing access to the third row. Standard safety features include stability control, traction control, a back-up sensor and antilock brakes. Most Pathfinders will also have a rear camera, as it was standard on all but the base model, where it was unavailable. Platinum models add an "around-view" monitor using multiple cameras to show the area surrounding the Pathfinder while parking.  For 2018, forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking were made standard.

2005-2012
2005 Redesign Year
The mid-sized Pathfinder's 2005 redesign brought standard ESC, an available third-row seat, a muscular if thirsty 4.0-liter V6, and an independent rear suspension that improved its handling. The ride remains too stiff though and the third-row seat is suitable only for kids. In our tests, the Pathfinder towed 5000 pounds with ease. Power adjustable pedals are offered, but the steering wheel adjusts only for tilt. Still, outward visibility is mostly good and a rearview camera is available. Access is fairly easy, but the running boards are more hindrance than help. An optional V8 arrived in 2008.
1996-2004
1996 Redesign Year

The Pathfinder suffered from so-so braking and difficult rear-seat access. 2000 brought better brakes and controls, and an efficient and refined 3.5-liter V6 that boosted performance. The 2001 LE model received a selectable full-time 4WD system like the more expensive Infiniti QX4's. Cargo area and rear seat accommodations are fairly skimpy. Handling is secure, but the ride deteriorates quickly with modest load. Electronic stability control became available starting in 2003.