2008 Nissan Pathfinder
Based on analysis of 30 Pathfinder reviews and test drives.
Nissan Pathfinder - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Nissan Pathfinder ranks 11 out of 24 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 30 published reviews and test drives of the Nissan Pathfinder, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Pathfinder delivers spacious seating for seven, a versatile interior, and above-average off-roading capabilities, but can't match the on-pavement handling and interior refinement of others in its class. Consequently, it ranks near the middle of its segment.
First introduced in 1986, the Nissan Pathfinder was last redesigned in 2005. The 2008 model adds an optional V8 engine and features a mildly restyled interior and exterior. Auto reviewers see the SUV as a spacious seven-seat family mover and a functional off-roader. "Overall, it's a durable, rugged vehicle, and if you're prepared to deal with something a little more rough and tumble, the Pathfinder is excellent at being a classic SUV," says Automobile.com. However, reviewers do have some performance complaints, most notably the Pathfinder's unrefined pavement ride and sub-par braking ability.
The 2008 Nissan Pathfinder is available in six trims: the base S, the SE V6, the SE V8, the SE Off Road, the LE V6 and the LE V8.
- "All the elements are there: A robust powertrain, with the proper choices of 4X4 mechanicals. Fresh and eye-pleasing styling. Accommodating interior. And some nice-to-have amenities." -- New Car Test Drive
- "The 2008 Nissan Pathfinder plays the role of a tough, rugged cowboy ready for the range. Yet, when negotiating city streets, the Pathfinder is a tame tiger offering many amenities to please the in-town crowd." -- DogCars.com
- "Counterpoint: The Pathfinder is truck-based, the third-row seat is small and the fuel mileage isn't great." -- Kansas City Star
Pathfinder Performance - 7.6 (Good)
Reviewers agree that the 2008 Nissan Pathfinder feels rock solid and now has more power than ever with a V8 engine option. Forbes says it "rewards drivers with its smooth handling, decent steering feel and surprisingly-agile cornering." However, leftover complaints about a less car-like ride than competitors put the SUV's performance in the bottom half of its class. Continue with our full Performance review to learn about one of the Pathfinder's strengths -- its off-road abilities. continue
Pathfinder Exterior - 6.4 (Mediocre)
Reviewers have mixed opinions on the 2008 Nissan Pathfinder's look, which is very similar to the 2007 model and ranks near the bottom of its class. Automobile.com calls it "a truck in truck's clothing, sharing the blocky, chiseled styling of the Xterra, but even more closely resembling the chrome-grilled Titan and Frontier pickups." Continue with our full Exterior review to learn how the Pathfinder's exterior trims differ, or check out our Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
Pathfinder Interior - 8.0 (Very Good)
Reviewers praise the 2008 Nissan Pathfinder's seven-seat interior as roomy, versatile, and even somewhat upscale. The SUV's roomy cargo capacity and versatility is also a high point. Consequently, its cabin ranks near the top of the class. Motor Week says, "The Pathfinder's interior is naturally roomier than previous years and primed with the comfort and amenities necessary to compete in its class." Continue with our Interior Review to learn why reviewers appreciate the standard third-row seat, or check out our interior photos. continue
Pathfinder Safety - 8.6 (Very Good)
The 2008 Nissan Pathfinder gets a very good safety score for its performance in federal government crash tests. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn about Hill Start Assist, which comes standard on the SE Off Road model. continue
Pathfinder Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2008 Nissan Pathfinder reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Pathfinder comes with Nissan's three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full Pathfinder Reliability Review to learn about the Pathfinder's powertrain warranty. continue
