Nissan Pathfinder

Name: 2009 Nissan Pathfinder
Brand: Nissan

EPA MPG: 17 mpg

Owner Reported MPG:

EPA MPG: 17 mpg

Owner Reported MPG:

RECALL ALERT: There are 4 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 4 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

RECALL ALERT: There are 4 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 4 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Reliability Details

Owner Satisfaction Details

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Road Test

This version of the Pathfinder was a relatively old SUV, but it does offer a third-row seat. Strengths include a versatile interior and a V6 engine that's stronger than some competitors' V8s. Independent rear suspension contributes to responsive handling, but the Pathfinder rides stiffly. Second- and third-row seats are tight for adults. A rear-view camera is optional. Side- and curtain-airbags are standard.

2009 SUVs Reliability

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Nissan Pathfinder

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Nissan vs. Other New Car Brands

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Owner Reports

Owner Satisfaction Owner Satisfaction

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Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

Nissan vs. Other New Car Brands

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Nissan vs. Other New Car Brands

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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2009 Midsized SUVs 3-row Ratings

2009 Nissan Pathfinder

$3,775 - $5,350

EPA MPG 17 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2009 Chevrolet Traverse

$3,650 - $5,050

EPA MPG 19 mpg

Road test

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Owner Satisfaction

2009 Dodge Journey

$2,900 - $3,275

EPA MPG 18 mpg

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Owner Satisfaction

2009 Ford Explorer

$3,775 - $5,225

EPA MPG 16 mpg

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2009 Ford Taurus X

$3,025 - $5,125

EPA MPG 18 mpg

Road test

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2009 Honda Pilot

$5,375 - $6,750

EPA MPG 18 mpg

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2009 Hyundai Santa Fe

$4,800 - $5,775

EPA MPG 22 mpg

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2009 Hyundai Veracruz

$4,550 - $5,950

EPA MPG 20 mpg

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2009 Jeep Commander

$4,275 - $6,500

EPA MPG 17 mpg

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2009 Kia Borrego

$3,100 - $4,525

EPA MPG 18 mpg

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2009 Mazda CX-9

$5,150 - $5,375

EPA MPG 17 mpg

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2009 Mercury Mountaineer

$3,300 - $4,425

EPA MPG NA

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2009 Subaru Tribeca

$4,250 - $5,125

EPA MPG 18 mpg

Road test

Reliability

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2009 Toyota Highlander

$6,400 - $8,300

EPA MPG 19 mpg

Road test

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Owner Satisfaction

2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

$6,400 - $8,300

EPA MPG 26 mpg

Road test

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See All Midsized SUVs 3-row Ratings

Features & Specs

4-door SUV

2 front, 3 rear, 2 third

4WD, Rear

4-liter V6 (266 hp)
5.6-liter V8 (310 hp)

5-speed automatic

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In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

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Model History

2022-Present

Current Generation

The three-row Pathfinder was redesigned for 2022 with a squared-off exterior, the latest infotainment technology, and an option for second-row captain's chairs. Overall, it's a significant improvement over its bland, clumsy predecessor. The 3.5-liter, 284-hp V6 now comes mated to a nine-speed automatic (replacing the previous CVT), together delivering smooth and effortless propulsion. The ride is steady if a bit stiff-legged, but handling is responsive for a midsized SUV. Controls are easy to use, thanks to physical buttons and knobs for commonly-used climate and infotainment functions. Many active safety and driver assist features come standard, including FCW, AEB with pedestrian detection, BSW, RCTW, and LDW. Nissan's ProPilot Assist active driving assistance system--which combines ACC and lane-centering--is optional.

2013-2020

2013 Redesign Year

Pathfinder went the crossover route for 2013, with a new car-based chassis. Off-road capability was sacrificed for better ride quality and a more comfortable interior. Power comes from Nissan's 3.5-liter V6 driving through a CVT. This SUV can tow 5,000 pounds and has a slick second row that can move forward even with a child seat installed, easing access to the third row. Standard safety features include stability control, traction control, a back-up sensor and antilock brakes. Most Pathfinders will also have a rear camera, as it was standard on all but the base model, where it was unavailable. Platinum models add an "around-view" monitor using multiple cameras to show the area surrounding the Pathfinder while parking. For 2018, forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking were made standard.

2005-2012

2005 Redesign Year

The mid-sized Pathfinder's 2005 redesign brought standard ESC, an available third-row seat, a muscular if thirsty 4.0-liter V6, and an independent rear suspension that improved its handling. The ride remains too stiff though and the third-row seat is suitable only for kids. In our tests, the Pathfinder towed 5000 pounds with ease. Power adjustable pedals are offered, but the steering wheel adjusts only for tilt. Still, outward visibility is mostly good and a rearview camera is available. Access is fairly easy, but the running boards are more hindrance than help. An optional V8 arrived in 2008.

1996-2004

1996 Redesign Year

The Pathfinder suffered from so-so braking and difficult rear-seat access. 2000 brought better brakes and controls, and an efficient and refined 3.5-liter V6 that boosted performance. The 2001 LE model received a selectable full-time 4WD system like the more expensive Infiniti QX4's. Cargo area and rear seat accommodations are fairly skimpy. Handling is secure, but the ride deteriorates quickly with modest load. Electronic stability control became available starting in 2003.