Popular at KBB.com
- Home
- >
- Car Values
- >
- Nissan
- >
- Pathfinder
- >
- 2014 Nissan Pathfinder
Get Your Fair Purchase Price
See actual transaction prices, explore total cost to own, projected resale value and more.
See what you should pay
2014 Nissan Pathfinder Review
What's New for 2014
By KBB.com Editors
KBB Expert Rating: 8.1
Nissan reinvented the Pathfinder last year, transforming it from a rugged body-on-frame SUV into a more car-like unibody crossover SUV. The result was a vehicle whose priorities changed from towing heavy loads and finding precarious paths to meeting the demands of a wider audience seeking a comfortable, fuel-efficient SUV that can stylishly schlep the kids to soccer practice and still have room for groceries. Not surprisingly, the latest Pathfinder has been a hit. As a softened crossover SUV, the 7-passenger Pathfinder is one of the most competent models in a segment that includes the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Traverse, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot and Mazda CX-9. The Pathfinder's 26-mpg highway rating is among the segment's best, and a new hybrid model promises still-higher returns.
You'll Like This Car If...
Want good fuel economy, room for seven and something more nimble than a Chevy Traverse or Ford Explorer? Put the 2014 Pathfinder on your shopping list. Another feather in the Nissan's cap is its ability to tow up to 5,000 pounds.
You May Not Like This Car If...
The 2014 Pathfinder won't tow the big loads of its V8-powered predecessor or scale mountains in low-range gearing. If your off-road adventures require lots of ground clearance and knowledge of what a transfer case is, check out the Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Grand Cherokee or Nissan Xterra.
A year after a complete revamp, the big news for the 2014 Pathfinder lineup is the introduction of a hybrid model. Also new is a tech package that bundles goodies such as a Bose premium sound system, navigation and 8-inch touch screen.
Driving the Pathfinder
Driving Impressions This latest-generation Nissan Pathfinder is more refined than past models. This is due in large part because the old model used a truck-based body-on-frame setup, which made it a capable...
off-roader but not the best for highway cruising. The latest Pathfinder feels more stable in everyday driving, and its suspension and stability systems help keep body roll in check through corners. Like the Murano and other Nissan vehicles, the Pathfinder uses a continuously-variable automatic transmission (CVT). Such transmissions don't have traditional shift points, but Nissan's setups generally do well in mimicking them, and this particular Xtronic version is nicely matched with the Pathfinder's strong V6 engine. Front-wheel drive is now the standard setup for Pathfinders, with an All-Mode 4x4-i intelligent all-wheel-drive system available that enhances traction and offers a full-lock setting for use on rough terrain.
Favorite Features
AROUND VIEW MONITOR
This available feature uses four vehicle-mounted cameras to take the stress out of parking. In addition to displaying a picture of what's in front of and behind the Pathfinder, the cameras create a composite image to give you a virtual bird's-eye view from above.
EZ FLEX LATCH & GLIDE SYSTEM
This Nissan-patented feature allows child safety seats latched to the 2nd-row seats to remain strapped in when they are slid forward to gain access to the 3rd-row seats.
2014 Nissan Pathfinder Details
Interior
The Nissan Pathfinder seats up to seven passengers across three rows. Legroom is generous in the first and second rows, but the last row will be tight for adults. Seating material is cloth or leather. We're fans of the charcoal coloring of either seating surface that is contrasted by white stitching. Thankfully, Nissan passed on the finicky, all-touch infotainment systems used by others. Here, you can easily tune the radio or turn up the volume with the twist of a dial. The same goes for setting the temperature and fan speed. Other features we like include a hidden storage bin aft of the third row, built-in tie-downs, and flip-out coat hooks.
ExteriorNo longer the squared-off utility vehicle it used to be, the 2014 Pathfinder is all windswept curves and rounded edges. A large, upward sloping grille and two large headlight housings convey toughness, but for the most part the latest Pathfinder projects a friendly image. Roof racks can add functionality to the Pathfinder, and an available dual-panel moonroof does a great job of opening up the cabin, even for 3rd-row passengers. With just 6.5 inches of ground clearance, today's Pathfinder isn't meant for hard-core off-roading. Hybrid Pathfinder models look largely the same as regular versions, only subtly distinguished by LED taillights and hybrid badging.
Notable Equipment
Standard Equipment
The Pathfinder is available in six trims (S/SV/SL/SL Premium/Platinum/Platinum Premium), with each getting its own roster of standard features. Spend the least on a base S model, and you still won't feel like a pauper with features such as 3-zone automatic climate control, push-button start, in-dash 6-disc AM/FM audio, and 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. Climbing trims brings amenities such as leather seating, a heated steering wheel, heated and cooled front seats, Bluetooth streaming audio, navigation, and a power liftgate. Top trims bring a 13-speaker Bose premium audio system, the Around View Monitor, 20-inch wheels, and a panoramic moonroof.
Optional Equipment
Aside from the option of all-wheel drive, most other extras for the 2014 Nissan Pathfinder come as packages, which themselves are limited since many of the trims bundle the features. Among the offerings are a tri-zone entertainment system, a panoramic moonroof, Bose audio, and navigation. A tow hitch receiver is also available for those who plan to haul their toys.
Under the Hood
The 2014 Nissan Pathfinder uses a V6 engine that has a good balance of power and fuel economy. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds and returns up to 26 mpg. The sole transmission is a CVT automatic. New for 2014 is the first hybrid setup used in a Pathfinder. While it won't attain the 50 mpg of a Prius, the Pathfinder Hybrid is estimated to average 27 mpg, not bad for a 3-row SUV. Instead of a V6, the Pathfinder Hybrid pairs a supercharged 4-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery. In all, the system generates 250 horsepower and can still tow up to 3,500 pounds. The regular and hybrid Pathfinders come in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
3.5-liter V6
260 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm
240 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/26 mpg (front-wheel drive), 19/25 mpg (all-wheel drive)
2.5-liter inline-4 + electric motor/generator
250 horsepower (combined)
240 lb-ft of torque (combined)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 25/27 mpg (estimated)
Pricing Notes
The 2014 Nissan Pathfinder has a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) that spans from just under $30,000 for a base S model with front-wheel drive to over $44,000 for a loaded, all-wheel-drive Platinum Premium version. The Pathfinder's starting price is similar to those of the Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, Chevy Traverse, Honda Pilot, Mazda CX-9, and Dodge Durango, making this a very competitive segment. If you're looking for an inexpensive way to carry a big family in an SUV, the Dodge Journey and its sub-$20,000 starting price is tempting. The smaller Kia Sorento, meanwhile, starts around $25,000 and also has three rows of seats. To make sure you're getting the best deal, check the KBB.com Fair Purchase Price before buying. On the resale front, the Nissan Pathfinder is expected to hold its value very well, though not quite match the lofty residuals of the Toyota Highlander.
To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Nissan Pathfinder vehicles for sale near you.
Get Your Fair Purchase Price
See actual transaction prices, explore total cost to own, projected resale value and more.
2014 Nissan Pathfinder Consumer Reviews
Based on 27 Ratings for the 2013 - 2014 models.
Review this car-
ValueQuality
-
ReliabilityPerformance
-
ComfortStyling
Great Vehicle!!!!!!!! Love the new design!!!
By Anonymous (LA) on Thursday, July 25, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,000
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Pros: "Love the design of 2013 model. Great gas mileage!"
Cons: "No cons yet!!!"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"Great SUV. Lots of room. Great gas mileage. Very happy with my decision. Looked at Honda Pilot & Toyota Highlander and I liked the new Pathfinder way better : )"
Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse
Run away as fast as you can
By ALMOM02 (AL) on Thursday, July 18, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 8,200
overall rating 3 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Pros: "second row mobility, 360 camera, stereo quality"
Cons: "Major Transmission issues; poor quality all around"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1
"Let me just say that I have previously owned two other Nissan's and loved them; I swore my their quality and safety and recommended Nissan to everyone I came in contact with. My 2013 Nissan Pathfinder has proved me wrong. The good: Second row moves forward and backward to allow you to accomodate passengers in all rows; 360 degree camera is awesome; quiet ride; stereo system is very nice (Bose). The bad: I have had nothing but problems with my 2013 Pathfinder since I bought it. The transmission has been worked on several times and still isn't fixed, the tires are horrible, the hood vibrates at highway speeds, the trunk had to be fixed for a loud popping noise, the passenger seat heating/cooling switch had to be "fixed" three times before they finally replaced it. For the amount of money I spent I would expect better quality. Very disappointed in this experience with Nissan. Please do your homework before purchasing this car."
2 people out of 2 found this review helpful
Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse
Most luxurious ride I've ever had
By jjgreek (CA) on Tuesday, July 02, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I've owned this vehicle about one month. I have been very impressed with the materials, the ride, the luxury, the gas mileage and the safety. It hauls around my entire family in style. You will not regret buying this vehicle. It drives like a charm"
Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse
Most luxurious ride I've ever had
By jjgreek (CA) on Tuesday, July 02, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I've owned this vehicle about one month. I have been very impressed with the materials, the ride, the luxury, the gas mileage and the safety. It hauls around my entire family in style. You will not regret buying this vehicle. It drives like a charm"
3 people out of 4 found this review helpful
Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse
Most luxurious ride I've ever had
By jjgreek (CA) on Tuesday, July 02, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I've owned this vehicle about one month. I have been very impressed with the materials, the ride, the luxury, the gas mileage and the safety. It hauls around my entire family in style. You will not regret buying this vehicle. It drives like a charm"
Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse
Best SUV for the price
By DJ Igor (CA) on Tuesday, July 02, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 450
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Pros: "Most fun for your money."
Cons: "None."
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I have the Pathfinder for a week now and I should say, it is smooth and seem to last us for a long time with its reliability record with the brand name. We test drove the CX-9 Grand Touring first. It was good with its blind-spot monitoring feature and navigation (a very small but usable 5.8" screen) for the same price as the Pathfinder SL, but the handling was kinda rough and the gas mileage is not good as what other consumers are complaining about. Plus, the CX-9 also has long doors that could pose a problem in tight parking spaces. We had the eye on the Pilot but thought that the design was too boxy and may have a new design soon after we buy it. The Highlander surely will have a new design by early 2014 but we cannot wait for it to come out to test drive for comparison with the other SUVs available now. And with the Toyota name, it just means more money for the same features as the Pathfinder. The Pathfinder has a smooth ride, a good mpg with its CVT transmission, easy access third row seat and the panoramic moonroof extra feature that works well with the kids in the back. We have the SL with its leather seats that works best when kids are around and they are having their drinks after school or sport activities. It can tow 5,000 pounds (not that I need it, but good to have) when the family decides to have more gadgets for outdoor fun or to haul stuffs away. The style is brand new for 2013 and may lasts for quite a while as with other Pathfinders that have 6-8 years of life before a new redesign is out. The added navigation is nice but with the phone nowadays, who needs one?"
4 people out of 4 found this review helpful
Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse
advertisement
why ads?
Get Your Fair Purchase Price
See actual transaction prices, explore total cost to own, projected resale value and more.
advertisement
why ads?Free Dealer Price Quote
Get the best price and be more prepared with your free, no-obligation price quote
Available Pathfinder Models
-
Nissan Pathfinder SUV
Know the History.
Get the Used Car Report.
Was the car reported in an accident or damaged in a flood? Search our extensive vehicle database to find out now:
Go
Buyer's Resources
Key Pathfinder Competitors