Used 2019 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2019 Nissan Pathfinder is a mainstream 3-row crossover SUV. One aspect that makes it stand out in a crowded field of strong contenders is its punchy 284-horsepower V6 that comes as standard. In other respects, the Pathfinder keeps up to date with forward-collision mitigation and blind-spot monitoring, while staying with the pack in terms of safety scores. Buyers have also found its infotainment system easy to navigate. The 2019 Pathfinder’s principal rivals are, however, superb. These include (in no particular order) the revised-for-2019 Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Mazda CX-9, Chevrolet Traverse, Volkswagen Atlas and Ford Explorer.

This V6 is good. Moving off from a standstill or providing extra thrust for decisive overtaking, it never seems to come up short. Sending power to the front wheels (FWD) in standard form or the optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) system is a continuously variable transmission (CVT). These units don’t tend to find that many fans. They have a tendency to drone and be slow in their responses (the transmissions, not the fans). Still, Nissan uses them a lot and has engineered them to the point of making a fair impersonation of a regular automatic. In an all-wheel-drive 2019 Pathfinder, it includes a full-lock setting for rough or slippery surfaces, making the vehicle suitable for light off-roading adventures. In the usual urban and suburban environments, the ride is composed, yet not particularly smooth.

With seating for up to seven, the 3-row Nissan Pathfinder has plenty of space in the first two rows. But as is so often the case, the third row is best suited to younger, more flexible members of the family. The reclining 2nd-row seats can also slide, providing easier access to the back. Those up front will like the standard 8-inch infotainment touch screen and quickly get to grips with the controls. Ergonomics in general is well-thought-out, including a height-adjustable driver’s seat. Luggage space behind the third row is a useful 16 cubic feet, expanding to 47.8 behind the second. With both rows folded flat, maximum cargo area is 79.8, which is around average for the class.

Nissan, a company that doesn’t mind taking stylistic risks (Exhibit A: the Juke), sticks to unadventurous and conservative with its 2019 Pathfinder. That’s not a bad thing; there’s a better chance of having broader appeal. The proportions work well together, and the overall look shouldn’t be dated by the time an owner makes that final payment. The optional dual-pane moonroof brings an airiness to the whole cabin, while the gesture-controlled tailgate in the higher trim levels (wave a foot under the rear bumper) is exceptionally convenient.

REAR-DOOR ALERT
We all forget things from time to time, like shopping, pets, dry cleaning, or even kids. There’s no judgment here. Nissan’s handy system takes note if a vehicle’s rear-passenger door was opened at the beginning of a trip, but not at its conclusion.

AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
Many new vehicles have this feature as standard. But it’s no less welcome because of that. Using a network of sensors, the Pathfinder reads the distance to the vehicle in front, gives audible and visual alerts if that distance is reducing rapidly, then applies the brakes if the driver hasn’t responded in time.

In ascending order of equipment levels, the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder comes in S, SV, SL and Platinum trims. The S still enjoys that exuberant V6, 18-inch alloy wheels, 8-inch touch screen, push-button ignition, rear parking sensors, 3-zone climate control, four USB Type-A ports, two USB Type-C ports, 6-speaker audio system with HD radio and a CD player, forward-collision mitigation, and Rear Door Alert. There’s also Easy Fill Tire Alert, a handy little feature that beeps the horn once the tires are at the correct pressure.

All-wheel drive is optional on all versions of the 2019 Pathfinder crossover SUV. The SV becomes eligible for more extras, such as blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, navigation, heated steering wheel/front seats/side mirrors, and a towing package. The SL has those driver aids as standard, along with leather upholstery and the motion-activated tailgate, while options include 20-inch alloy wheels, 13-speaker Bose audio, and the dual-pane panoramic moonroof. The Platinum has virtually all these features included in the price, with a rear-seat entertainment system as one of the few extras.

Now we come to the Nissan Pathfinder’s secret weapon. This all-aluminum 3.5-liter V6 is the sole source of Pathfinder propulsion. It develops a meaty 284 horsepower and an equally substantial 259 lb-ft of torque for a pleasing low-end punch. Such muscle allows the Pathfinder to tow 6,000 pounds, making it a top choice for those with a 2-axle trailer. And the engine performs all this with regular gasoline, as opposed to the pricier premium stuff.

3.5-liter V6
284 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm
259 lb-ft of torque @ 4,800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/27 mpg (FWD), 19/26 mpg (AWD)