2010 Nissan Pathfinder
- 2009 Nissan Pathfinder
- Used Nissan Pathfinder
Based on analysis of 40 Pathfinder reviews and test drives.
Nissan Pathfinder - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Nissan Pathfinder ranks 30 out of 31 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 40 published reviews and test drives of the Nissan Pathfinder, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
First introduced in 1986, the long-running Nissan Pathfinder is a good choice for those who want a versatile cabin and decent off-road capabilities. However, this SUV lags behind competitors in on-pavement handling and interior refinement, so it may not work as a daily driver or family hauler.
Unless buyers spend most of their time off road, the Pathfinder may be a poor choice. And even as an off-roader, it's bested by many of its competitors, including the Toyota FJ Cruiser and Nissan's own Xterra. Its overwhelming number of cargo and seating configurations is a strength. However, though its seven-seat capacity makes it tempting as a family vehicle, the second and third rows are cramped. Buyers who want a rugged SUV but need more comfortable accommodations should consider the Toyota 4Runner and Ford Explorer.
"Riding the same fully boxed frame as the full-size Armada SUV, the Pathfinder is exceptionally rugged, and the addition of a V-8 option last year gives it strong performance and towing capability," says Car and Driver. "Independent suspension makes for good road manners, and there's seating for seven." The Pathfinder is priced around the middle of its class, but its fuel economy falls closer to the bottom (though it's about average when compared to other off-road SUVs). The least expensive off-road SUV, the Jeep Patriot, costs less than $20K and boasts much better fuel economy.
New features for this year include a standard moonroof on the LE V6 model, a standard navigation system on the LE V8, and simplified exterior and interior color combinations. If you like the Pathfinder, be sure to check out this month's Nissan Deals.
The 2010 Nissan Pathfinder is available in six trims: the base S, SE V6, LE V6 and LE V8. Since the 2010 model is nearly identical to the 2009, this review uses research from both model years.
- "For everyday driving ease and fuel economy, this truck-type SUV trails such crossover rivals as the GMC Acadia and Nissan's own Murano. Only the most expensive versions offer the convenience of 4-wheel drive that can be left engaged on dry pavement." -- Consumer Guide
- "The...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
- "Never having been much of a fan of the $40,000 SUV weighing nearly 5,000 pounds, I didn't find a lot enticing about this vehicle. It did go well in snow, with the drive-mode selector in 'auto.' The rearview camera, the heated steering wheel and the navigation system all proved useful enough at various times, but I could live without any of it and not miss a thing." -- AutoWeek
- "The 2009 Nissan Pathfinder can tame the wilderness with its off-road skill, but it's not as adept in the concrete jungle. Consumers just wanting a comfortable seven-passenger midsize SUV will be better served by some competing models." -- Edmunds
Pathfinder Performance - 7.5 (Good)
The Pathfinder's strengths are a solid driving feel, powerful V8 engine option and excellent off-road abilities. However, reviewers continue to complain about a less car-like ride than competitors -- a serious downside in a segment full of smooth-riding crossover SUVs. "On the whole, though, this Nissan Pathfinder is less carlike than the last generation," explains Edmunds. "It's heavier, and there's considerable body roll around corners, especially on SE Off-Road models, which are fitted with off-road-biased tires." For an off-road SUV that's smoother on the pavement, consider the similarly priced Toyota 4Runner. Read More
Pathfinder Exterior - 6.9 (Mediocre)
The 2010 Pathfinder's look receives mixed reviews. 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." Read More
Pathfinder Interior - 7.8 (Good)
The 2010 Pathfinder's seven-seat interior is versatile and even somewhat upscale. Reviewers appreciate the standard third-row seat, but note that both the second and third rows can be cramped. "Inside the Nissan Pathfinder, occupants will find an attractive cabin with excellent ergonomics," says Edmunds. "Optional amenities like navigation, Intelligent Key (keyless ignition/entry), Bluetooth and a hard-drive-based music server only add to the luxurious ambience." Read More
Pathfinder Safety - NA
The 2010 Nissan Pathfinder does relatively well in federal government crash tests, but receives a three-star rollover score -- when many competitors receive four stars. Read More
Pathfinder Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
The 2010 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. Read More
