The 2019 Nissan Pathfinder ranks 13 out of 23 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of published reviews and test drives of the Nissan Pathfinder, as well as reliability and safety data.
The 2020 Nissan Pathfinder is ranked:
#13 in Affordable Midsize SUVs
#15 in Affordable SUVs with 3 Rows
While the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder gets good fuel economy and offers a spacious third row, test drivers write that other midsize SUVs are equally comfortable or more fun to drive.
The 2020 Pathfinder is powered by a V6 engine that auto writers say provides adequate, but not overwhelming, acceleration. Power is routed through a continuously variable transmission, which some reviewers find slow to respond when more power is needed. The Pathfinder achieves up to 20/27 mpg city/highway, which is fairly good for the class. Reviewers agree that the Pathfinder has a comfortable ride that feels composed in turns, but some also write that SUVs like the Ford Flex and Mazda CX-9 offer better handling and are more fun to drive. The Pathfinder’s steering also earns mixed reviews, as some test drivers wish it provided more feedback.
Automotive journalists report that the Nissan Pathfinder’s cabin is constructed with high-quality materials that have an upscale appearance. Several note that the seven-seat Pathfinder has one of the most welcoming third-row seats in the class, and they like that you don’t have to remove a child seat to access the third row. On the other hand, its cargo area isn’t as large as that of some rivals. Test drivers appreciate that the Pathfinder’s simple and straightforward stereo and climate systems are easy to adjust with knobs and buttons. However, the Pathfinder comes with fewer standard features than many SUVs in the class. A six-speaker stereo and tri-zone automatic climate control are standard on all trims. Options include Nissan’s Around View Monitor camera system, which uses four cameras to give a birds-eye view around the vehicle, Bluetooth, navigation, a panoramic sunroof and a 13-speaker Bose sound system.