Used 2018 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum for sale 

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2018 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum
17 Photos

2018 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$17,365
Est. $235/mo
$4,660 Below market
RMV: $22,025
Mileage 55,670 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
7 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
Rydell of Independence
Independence, IA
4.0
(Based 445 Review)
(319) 33*****
Check Availability
2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum
27 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$8,995
Est. $122/mo
$3,601 Below market
RMV: $12,596
Mileage 100,477 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 1 Owner
13 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Showcase Auto Sales LLC
Chesaning, MI
4.0
(Based 3793 Review)
(989) 84*****
Check Availability
2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum
23 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$5,999
Est. $81/mo
$3,913 Below market
RMV: $9,912
Mileage 146,499 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
4 Days in market
SILVER
SUV
V6
Automatic
SF MOTORS
Houston, TX
Check Availability
32 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$13,500
Est. $183/mo
$3,561 Below market
RMV: $17,061
Mileage 62,961 mi.
Home Delivery
3 Accident, 2 Owner
8 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
Nile Auto Sales
Denver, CO
3.0
(Based 138 Review)
(303) 32*****
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37 Photos

2019 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$16,799
Est. $228/mo
$2,445 Below market
RMV: $19,244
Price Drop, $500
Earlier Price: $17,299 (18 Nov 2024)
Mileage 81,500 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
39 Days in market
SILVER
SUV
V6
Automatic
EchoPark Automotive - Houston
Houston, TX
4.0
(Based 4399 Review)
(281) 37*****
Check Availability
23 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$10,500
Est. $142/mo
$3,472 Below market
RMV: $13,972
Price Drop, $495
Earlier Price: $10,995 (5 Nov 2024)
Mileage 113,960 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 2 Owner
16 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Elite Auto Sales LLC
Roanoke, VA
(540) 726*****
Check Availability
38 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$13,495
Est. $183/mo
$3,143 Below market
RMV: $16,638
Price Drop, $450
Earlier Price: $13,945 (25 Oct 2024)
Mileage 80,526 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
233 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Norco Autoland
Norco, CA
4.0
(Based 415 Review)
(951) 47*****
Check Availability
28 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$11,990
Est. $162/mo
$2,772 Below market
RMV: $14,762
Mileage 106,500 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
25 Days in market
BLACK
SUV
V6
Automatic
GS Autos of Atlanta
Buford, GA
5.0
(Based 11 Review)
(888) 869*****
Check Availability
37 Photos

2018 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$15,500
Est. $210/mo
$3,161 Below market
RMV: $18,661
Price Drop, $400
Earlier Price: $15,900 (19 Nov 2024)
Mileage 73,660 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 1 Owner
68 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
Suburban Ford of Sterling Heights
Sterling Heights, MI
4.0
(Based 5197 Review)
(586) 39*****
Check Availability
21 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$9,400
Est. $127/mo
$2,981 Below market
RMV: $12,381
Mileage 153,976 mi.
Home Delivery
3 Accident, 2 Owner
15 Days in market
SUV
V6
Automatic
Allstar Auto Services LLC
Pensacola, FL
4.0
(Based 414 Review)
(850) 98*****
Check Availability
25 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$13,995
Est. $190/mo
$2,841 Below market
RMV: $16,836
Mileage 79,489 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
41 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
Car City Inc - La Crescenta
La Crescenta, CA
4.0
(Based 74 Review)
(818) 33*****
Check Availability
32 Photos

2018 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$15,999
Est. $217/mo
$2,697 Below market
RMV: $18,696
Mileage 72,369 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 2 Owner
16 Days in market
BLACK
SUV
V6
Automatic
Car By U
Charlotte, NC
4.0
(Based 962 Review)
(980) 22*****
Check Availability
33 Photos

2018 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$14,954
Est. $203/mo
$2,722 Below market
RMV: $17,676
Price Drop, $1,808
Earlier Price: $16,762 (18 Oct 2024)
Mileage 89,257 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
51 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Downtown Ford Sacramento
Sacramento, CA
4.0
(Based 1188 Review)
(916) 77*****
Check Availability
12 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$12,740
Est. $172/mo
$1,943 Below market
RMV: $14,683
Mileage 84,065 mi.
Home Delivery
4 Accident, 1 Owner
26 Days in market
GREEN
SUV
V6
Automatic
Great Cars & Trucks Inc.
Glendale, AZ
4.0
(Based 111 Review)
(623) 93*****
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42 Photos

2019 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$23,000
Est. $312/mo
$2,004 Below market
RMV: $25,004
Price Drop, $2,000
Earlier Price: $25,000 (19 Nov 2024)
Mileage 38,641 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
11 Days in market
RED
SUV
V6
Automatic
Newton Nissan of Gallatin
Gallatin, TN
4.0
(Based 1554 Review)
(615) 44*****
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28 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$12,988
Est. $176/mo
$2,407 Below market
RMV: $15,395
Price Drop, $900
Earlier Price: $13,888 (8 Nov 2024)
Mileage 87,848 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
149 Days in market
SUV
V6
Automatic
NJ Auto Traders
NJ,  0
4.0
(Based 53 Review)
(866) 720*****
Check Availability
44 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$12,500
Est. $169/mo
$2,509 Below market
RMV: $15,009
Price Drop, $480
Earlier Price: $12,980 (27 Oct 2024)
Mileage 106,134 mi.
Home Delivery
3 Owner
54 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
Driven Auto of Waukegan
Waukegan, IL
4.0
(Based 506 Review)
(847) 67*****
Check Availability
6 Photos

2018 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$14,061
Est. $190/mo
$3,750 Below market
RMV: $17,811
Price Drop, $409
Earlier Price: $14,470 (13 Nov 2024)
Mileage 93,030 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
12 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
Munsterman Automotive Group LLC
Blue Springs, MO
4.0
(Based 525 Review)
(816) 59*****
Check Availability
42 Photos

2019 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$21,995
Est. $298/mo
$3,402 Below market
RMV: $25,397
Price Drop, $1,000
Earlier Price: $22,995 (28 Sep 2024)
Mileage 33,451 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
564 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Merlex Auto Group
Arlington, VA
3.0
(Based 1648 Review)
(703) 68*****
Check Availability
7 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$9,995
Est. $135/mo
$1,722 Below market
RMV: $11,717
Mileage 128,158 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 2 Owner
21 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Global Pre-Owned Auto Sales
Martinsburg, WV
4.0
(Based 72 Review)
(681) 24*****
Check Availability
6 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$9,375
Est. $127/mo
$1,584 Below market
RMV: $10,959
Mileage 135,751 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 2 Owner
8 Days in market
BLACK
SUV
V6
Automatic
Auto Budget LLC
Baltimore, MD
4.0
(Based 63 Review)
(443) 74*****
Check Availability
2 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$12,450
Est. $169/mo
$2,355 Below market
RMV: $14,805
Mileage 76,090 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 2 Owner
642 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
Premier Automotive
Dumfries, VA
4.0
(Based 1388 Review)
(888) 71*****
Check Availability
38 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$12,700
Est. $172/mo
$1,512 Below market
RMV: $14,212
Price Drop, $200
Earlier Price: $12,900 (16 Nov 2024)
Mileage 110,000 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
22 Days in market
SUV
V6
Automatic
Brothers Auto Group
Pflugerville, TX
5.0
(Based 20 Review)
(888) 926*****
Check Availability
35 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$13,997
Est. $190/mo
$2,397 Below market
RMV: $16,394
Mileage 85,000 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
61 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Fred's Executive Auto
Woodbridge, VA
4.0
(Based 757 Review)
(703) 49*****
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About 2018 Nissan Pathfinder


3.8

Overall Rating

For a starting price tag of about $30,790, the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder is a midsize SUV that comes with a 3.5L V6 engine mated to a CVT automatic transmission producing 284hp power and 259lb-ft torque. With plush interior available in higher trims and an available all-wheel-drive system, the Pathfinder is quite an all-rounder.

The mid-size SUV segment is filled with old tuff mountain goats softened to become modern city runabouts, and the Nissan Pathfinder is one of them. The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder is fully adapted to its modern role as a daily workhorse with a spacious cabin that can accommodate seven people. Unlike many of its competitors, its third row can accommodate adults in relative comfort. With a standard V-6 engine and available all-wheel drive, it offers features like automated emergency braking and a rear door alert system as standard.

The cabin packs plenty of gadgets and a suite of advanced driver assistance systems that makes it feel more premium than it actually is. Although in 2017, Nissan stiffened the spring rate for better body control, the suspension still continues to pamper the occupants and does not compromise on the comfort levels. The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder is available at sale with a base price of $32,085. It is priced competitively and can be specced according to the buyer to match different budgets and requirements. It goes up against its rivals such as the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, and the Mazda CX-9.

The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder SL trim provides a delightful package with features like power passenger seats, heated front and second-row seats, blind-spot monitoring, and a power liftgate. Available at a price of $37,500, the S trim would offer the most value for money.

27 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$18,990
Est. $257/mo
$2,087 Below market
RMV: $21,077
Price Drop, $3,000
Earlier Price: $21,990 (14 Nov 2024)
Mileage 58,685 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
31 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Lexus of Memphis
Memphis, TN
4.0
(Based 1689 Review)
(901) 36*****
Check Availability
35 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$14,991
Est. $203/mo
$1,955 Below market
RMV: $16,946
Mileage 82,290 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
3 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
Keystone Auto Group Inc
Delran, NJ
4.0
(Based 476 Review)
(856) 54*****
Check Availability
26 Photos

2018 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$18,121
Est. $246/mo
$2,409 Below market
RMV: $20,530
Price Drop, $442
Earlier Price: $18,563 (14 Nov 2024)
Mileage 70,088 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
18 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Joe Cooper Used Cars & Trucks South Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City, OK
3.0
(Based 198 Review)
(405) 583*****
Check Availability
6 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$13,989
Est. $189/mo
$1,641 Below market
RMV: $15,630
Mileage 103,734 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
47 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Quality Cars
Longs, SC
4.0
(Based 145 Review)
(843) 39*****
Check Availability
59 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$14,048
Est. $190/mo
$1,385 Below market
RMV: $15,433
Mileage 106,198 mi.
Home Delivery
3 Owner
11 Days in market
BLUE
SUV
V6
Automatic
JRR Motor Sales
Campbellsville, KY
4.0
(Based 518 Review)
(270) 46*****
Check Availability
48 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

Platinum 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$11,995
Est. $162/mo
$1,550 Below market
RMV: $13,545
Mileage 129,765 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
48 Days in market
GREEN
SUV
V6
Automatic
C&D MotorSports
Lancaster, PA
4.0
(Based 321 Review)
(717) 28*****
Check Availability

2018 Nissan Pathfinder Review


Pros

  • Spacious interior
  • Automatic Emergency Braking is standard
  • Highest in class tow rating

Cons

  • Less cargo capacity than competition
  • Limited in-cabin Small item storage
  • Top end trim rides stiff

For a starting price tag of about $30,790, the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder is a midsize SUV that comes with a 3.5L V6 engine mated to a CVT automatic transmission producing 284hp power and 259lb-ft torque. With plush interior available in higher trims and an available all-wheel-drive system, the Pathfinder is quite an all-rounder.

Overview


The mid-size SUV segment is filled with old tuff mountain goats softened to become modern city runabouts, and the Nissan Pathfinder is one of them. The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder is fully adapted to its modern role as a daily workhorse with a spacious cabin that can accommodate seven people. Unlike many of its competitors, its third row can accommodate adults in relative comfort. With a standard V-6 engine and available all-wheel drive, it offers features like automated emergency braking and a rear door alert system as standard.

The cabin packs plenty of gadgets and a suite of advanced driver assistance systems that makes it feel more premium than it actually is. Although in 2017, Nissan stiffened the spring rate for better body control, the suspension still continues to pamper the occupants and does not compromise on the comfort levels. The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder is available at sale with a base price of $32,085. It is priced competitively and can be specced according to the buyer to match different budgets and requirements. It goes up against its rivals such as the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, and the Mazda CX-9.

Pricing and Features
6.0/10


The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder prices range from $30,790 for the base trim, while the top-end Platinum trim retails at $42,320. The powertrain remains the same throughout the range with an optional 4-wheel drive ($1600) available on all trims. What you pay decides the interior appointments and exterior cosmetics. As standard, every Pathfinder comes with an 8-inch touch screen, a rearview camera, a rear-seat reminder, keyless entry, push-button start, cruise control, six speakers, tri-zone climate control, cloth seats, forward collision warning, and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Trims

S

SV

SL

Platinum

MSRP

$32,085

$33,480

$37,500

$42,320

Key Features

3.5-liter Direct Injection Gasoline

Includes S features plus:

Includes SV features plus:

Includes SL features plus:

 

Automatic Emergency Braking

Fog lights

Motion Activated Liftgate

20-inch Aluminum alloy wheels

 

Tri-Zone Automatic Temperature Control System

Nissan Intelligent Key

Leather-appointed seats and door trim

LED low-beam projector headlights

 

EZ FLEX Seating System featuring latch and glide

Remote Engine Start System

Intelligent Cruise Control

13 Speakers Bose Premium Audio System

 

SiriusXM Travel Link with 3-year complimentary trial access

Rear Sonar System

 

Climate-controlled front seats (heated and cooled)

What we recommend

The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder SL trim provides a delightful package with features like power passenger seats, heated front and second-row seats, blind-spot monitoring, and a power liftgate. Available at a price of $37,500, the S trim would offer the most value for money.


Also Read:

  • Redesigned 2022 Nissan Pathfinder Rolls-Off Assembly Line
  • 2022 Frontier, Pathfinder Official Teaser Videos Released By Nissan

Engine and Performance
7.7/10


The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder gets only one engine and transmission option, a 3.5-liter V6 engine that is mated to a CVT, which develops 284 horsepower and 259 pounds-feet of torque. Although some of its competitors might be downsizing in terms of engine capacities, the Pathfinder hasn’t followed the suit yet. The engine comes with no oomph factor and is meant to get the job done. The workhorse nature of the engine is evident as soon as you tap the throttle pedal.

While the Nissan Pathfinder remains quite silent at low rpm, as the revs increase, so does the harshness and noise. The CVT unit offers adequate shifting prowess but feels lethargic as soon as more than expected is asked from it. Therefore the combination of a large naturally aspirated engine and a CVT gearbox provides sufficient power for day-to-day driving, which includes merging with freeway traffic and overtaking.

Models

Nissan Pathfinder

Ford Explorer

Honda Pilot

Mazda CX-9

MSRP

$32,085

$32,140

$30,900

$32,130

Engine

3.5L, Naturally Aspirated V6

3.5L, Naturally Aspirated V6

3.5L, Naturally Aspirated V6

2.5L, Turbocharged Inline-4

Transmission

CVT Automatic

6-Speed Automatic

9-Speed Automatic

6-Speed Automatic

Power

284 hp @ 6,400 rpm

290 hp @ 6,500 rpm

280 hp @ 6,000 rpm

227 hp @ 5000 rpm

Torque

259 ft-lb @ 4,800 rpm

255 ft-lb @ 4,000 rpm

262 ft-lb @ 4,700 rpm

310 ft-lb @ 2000 rpm

The 2018 Honda Pilot is the least expensive SUV in this comparison, while the rest have similar pricing. The Ford Explorer is the most powerful with 290 hp, while the Mazda CX-9 has the maximum torque owing to its turbocharged engine. But the Mazda lacks in terms of power output.

What is the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder's 0-60 mph Acceleration Performance?

The Nissan Pathfinder's engine is pretty smooth and refined and does perform well if not pushed really hard as the CVT gearbox then starts to show its rubberband effect. Going full house also slows down its performance and it is simply not meant to burn rubber. While it can munch miles all day long, going fast is not its thing.

The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder reaches 0-60 mph in 7.6 seconds, while the quarter-mile distance is covered in 15.9 seconds. This is not the quickest in this comparison, but the highlight of this engine would be the top speed of 141 mph, which is one of the best in the segment.

Models

Nissan Pathfinder

Ford Explorer

Honda Pilot

Mazda CX 9

0-60 mph

7.6 seconds

7.7 sec

7.0 sec

7.4 sec

Quarter mile

15.9 sec

16.0 sec

15.4 sec

15.9 sec

Engine

3.5L, Naturally Aspirated V6

3.5L, Naturally Aspirated V6

3.5L, Naturally Aspirated V6

2.5L, Turbocharged Inline-4

Top Speed

141

134

130

113

The Nissan Pathfinder is one of the slowest among the competitors we compared, while the Ford Explorer is the slowest form 0-60 mph acceleration. The Honda Pilot is the fastest with 0-60 mph reached in 7.0 seconds, while the Mazda CX-9 takes 7.4 seconds to reach the 60 mph mark from a standstill.

How is the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder's Braking Performance?

The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder Pathfinder does not have an exceptionally large set of brakes nor are they too small as such. The 12.6-inch front disc brakes and 12.1-inch rear brake rotors do well to halt the 4,300 lbs SUV from 60 mph in a solid 125 feet.

The braking performance of the Nissan Pathfinder is not the best in this comparison, as most of the rivals take less distance to decelerate from 60-0 mph. But the 125 feet braking distance is quite respectable considering the size and weight of this SUV. 

Model

Nissan Pathfinder

Ford Explorer

Honda Pilot

Mazda CX 9

Brakes Front (in)

12.6

12.8

12.6

12.6

Brakes Rear (in)

12.1

12.8

13.0

12.8

Curb weight (lbs)

4,293

4,453

4,284

4,361

60-0 mph (ft)

125

127

120

123

The Honda Pilot is again the car that shines the most in the comparison as it is not only the lightest SUV here but also has the shortest stopping distance of 120 feet. The Mazda CX-9 takes 3 feet more than the Pilot, which is followed by the Pathfinder while the Ford Explorer again performs poorly in this aspect as well.

Has the Ride and Handling of the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder improved?

The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder SUV rides with composure and it absorbs most bumps and road undulations quite well. However, in 2017, Nissan stiffened the springs for increased body control and that has compromised the ride quality a bit. This shortcoming is especially pronounced in the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum with 20-inch wheels, and it is better to stick with the standard rim size for optimum comfort. The steering also remains quite light and does not offer a lot of confidence at high speeds. It offers little to no feedback.

Also, don’t have high expectations of being able to take this SUV off-road as it isn’t as capable as its forebears. The Pathfinder can trail through muddy trails, backroads, and gravel with ease, but in case you want a bit more adventure from your family SUV, it is better to look otherways as this is not meant for it even with the optional all-wheel-drive setup.

What is the Payload and Towing Capacity of the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder?

With its naturally aspirated V6 motor shows its grunt in this aspect as the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder towing capacity is roughly 6,000 lbs even with the front-wheel-drive powertrain. Owing to the same powertrain across the lineup, even the base Pathfinder S can tow the same. 

Model

Nissan Pathfinder

Ford Explorer

Honda Pilot

Mazda CX 9

Engine

3.5L, Naturally Aspirated V6

3.5L, Naturally Aspirated V6

3.5L, Naturally Aspirated V6

2.5L, Turbocharged Inline-4

Powertrain

FWD

FWD

FWD

FWD

Towing Capacity (lbs)

6,000

5,000

5,000

3,500

At 6,000 pounds, the Nissan Pathfinder's towing capacity is the highest among competitors here. Most of the other competitors can tow 5,000 pounds with the 2018 Mazda CX-9 towing capacity of 3,500 lbs.

Fuel Economy
7.1/10


The Nissan Pathfinder more than makes up for its lackluster acceleration with its stellar fuel economy. It is rated by the EPA for 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway for a combined EPA rating of 21 mpg. With a large 19.5-gallon gas tank available with the Pathfinder, the driving range is great with over 5,00 miles of highway cruising before the Pathfinder needs a pit stop. 

Model

Nissan Pathfinder

Ford Explorer

Honda Pilot

Mazda CX 9

MPG (City)

19

17

19

20

MPG (Highway)

26

24

26

26

MPG (Combined)

21

20

22

23

Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)

19.5

18.6

19.5

19.5

Range (City / Highway / Combined) (miles)

371 / 507 / 410

316 / 446 / 372

371 / 507 / 429

390 / 507 / 449

The 2018 Ford Explorer provides the least economy here, however, its 2.3L EcoBoost is more efficient. We think for this class of vehicles, an ideal engine is the one that delivers excellent fuel economy while delivering effortless performance. The 2018 Mazda CX-9 provides the best-combined mpg of 23, thanks to its turbocharged unit under the hood, while the Pilot lacks marginally in this aspect. 

Interior
7.8/10


The Nissan Pathfinder interior is spacious and the cabin is well built with good quality materials. It can accommodate up to seven people and the seats provide good support while the driving position is natural. It's not exactly commanding as the SUV gets a car-like unibody construction, but the outward visibility is great. The front seats offer one of the best legroom, but the hip and shoulder room is average among the competition. Its second row is also spacious and offers great comfort for those long journeys.

However, the third row really impressed us as it turns out to be useful even for adults. Although the overall design feels a bit aged compared to the competitors, the material quality is top-notch. Except for the fake wood accents, everything is well put together. Amenities like a heated steering wheel and heated and cooled front seats add to the "feel-good" factor. A Tri-zone climate control system is also available with the Pathfinder. 

Model

Nissan Pathfinder

Ford Explorer

Honda Pilot

Mazda CX-9

Passenger capacity

7

7

8

7

Front row (Head / Shoulder / Leg) (in)

41.1 / 60.9 / 42.2

41.4 / 61.5 / 42.9

39.5 / 62.0 / 40.9

39.3 / 57.9 / 41.0

Second row (Head / Shoulder / Leg) (in)

38.5 / 60.4 / 41.7

40.6 / 61.0 / 39.5

39.9 / 62.0 / 38.4

38.5 / 58.1 / 39.4

Third row (Head / Shoulder / Leg) (in)

36.5 / 57.1 / 30.7

37.8 / 50.8 / 32.0

38.9 / 57.6 / 31.9

35.4 / 53.1 / 29.7

The Honda Pilot is the only one that is rated to seat 8 passengers, while all others can seat a maximum of up to 7 passengers. The Honda Pilot interior still has the best third row of seats while Nissan has the best front and middle row of seats in terms of space. The 2018 Mazda CX-9 interior design is one of the best in this comparison. Some important features include-

  • 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat
  • 4-way power-adjustable front passenger seat
  • Front Heated & Cooled Bucket Leather Seats
  • 60-40 Folding EZ Flex Split-Bench Rear Seat 
  • Heated Manual Reclining rear seats
  • Power adjustable Tilt/Telescoping Steering Column
  • Heated Leather Steering Wheel with Auto Tilt-Away

What is the Cargo Capacity of the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder?

The Pathfinder offers a generous amount of cargo space in all seat configurations. In fact, even with all seats upright, you get 16 cu-ft of cargo space. This is almost as much as a midsize sedan’s trunk which stands high on the practicality factor. Fold the third row of seats, and we have up to 47 cu-ft. of cargo capacity.

If we need even more space, folding down the middle row of seats offers us a massive 78.9 cu-ft of cargo space. Just behind the third row, the Ford Explorer offers the best cargo capacity of 21 cu.ft. The Mazda CX 9 is the most compact SUV on the inside and hence has the least luggage carrying capacity in this comparison.

Model

Nissan Pathfinder

Ford Explorer

Honda Pilot

Mazda CX 9

With all seats upright (cu-ft)

 

Exterior
6.9/10


The Nissan Pathfinder exterior design had lost almost all its previous ruggedness in its third generation. Nissan realized this and now the latest generation Nissan Pathfinder gets a bit more muscle. No, it's not intimidating - lots of subtle curves, calm-looking headlights, and friendly-looking front grille will not scare away your kids.

The low ground clearance with aerodynamic extensions behind the wheels makes its family intentions clear. Thus it fails to stand out in the ocean of crossovers available in the market today. It gets a respectable ground clearance of 7 inches, but the Nissan Pathfinder is not the best off-road performer.

Model

Nissan Pathfinder

Ford Explorer

Honda Pilot

Mazda CX-9

Curb Weight (lbs)

4,293

4,453

4,284

4,361

Length (in)

198.5

198.3

194.5

199.4

Width (in)

77.3

78.9

66.3

77.5

Height (in)

69.5

70.0

69.8

69.0

Ground Clearance (in)

7.0

8.3

7.3

8.8

Wheelbase (in)

114.2

112.8

111

115.3

Track Width (in) F/R

65.7 / 65.7

67.0 / 67.0

66.3 / 66.3

65.3 / 65.2

The Nissan Pathfinder is has a curb weight of 4293 pounds, while the Honda Pilot is the lightest one at 4284 pounds. The Honda Pilot exterior dimensions are the smallest while the Mazda with its cramped cabin is the longest car here. The Mazda CX-9 also offers a maximum ground clearance of 8.8 inches and thus performs better off-road. Following Mazda in ground clearance is Ford with 8.3 inches. 

Safety
9.3/10


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The highlight of the active safety features in the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder is the fact that Automatic Emergency Braking is standard across all trims. With that, higher trims get things like blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert. The SUV has a whole host of passive safety features including dual-stage airbags and side-impact beams. The NHTSA has given it a 5-star crash test rating that speaks volumes about its crash safety credibility. The standard safety features list is pretty decent, and some of them are listed below. 

  • Side Impact Beams
  • Driveline Traction Control and Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
  • Low Tire Pressure Warning
  • Rear Parking Aid
  • Automatic Emergency Braking Forward Collision
  • A host of Airbags for almost all passengers with Airbag Occupancy Sensor
  • Blind Spot Monitor with Cross-Traffic Alert
  • RearView Monitor Back-Up Camera

Competition
7.0/10


Nissan Pathfinder vs Ford Explorer

The 2018 Ford Explorer has a range of engine options - from a small Inline-4 EcoBoost to the most powerful in segment 3.5L EcoBoost. It gets handsome styling and a spacious, comfortable interior to go with it.

The cabin is loaded with modern tech features. However, the Ford Explorer costs more than the Pathfinder for similarly equipped trim, and it doesn’t even match up with the Pathfinder’s performance.

Nissan Pathfinder vs Honda Pilot

The 2018 Honda Pilot is one of the most well-rounded midsize SUVs with well-equipped, spacious seats (even the third row) and high-quality materials. An efficient and powerful engine pulls the Pilot briskly along the road.

On top of that, the Pilot comes with Honda's reputation for reliability, is slightly cheaper, and has great resale value too. However, the Nissan Pathfinder is every bit as practical and has an air of toughness.

Nissan Pathfinder vs Mazda CX-9

The 2018 Mazda CX-9 continues Mazda's reputation for offering engaging and entertaining driving characteristics. The handsome exterior will blow you to pieces. The gorgeous interior will blow the pieces left of you into smaller pieces and the fuel economy is exceptional too.

However, it rides a bit on the harsher side, while the Nissan Pathfinder is a more practical choice with its roomy interiors, superior performance, and great ride quality.

Final Verdict


The Nissan Pathfinder has long moved away from its off-roader roots and has embraced civil life rather well. The interior is spacious and comfortable, has most of the modern electrical assistance, and nice to have features, while the infotainment is crisp. However, millennials will be disappointed as Pathfinder lacks Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

The Nissan comes with a powertrain option that's effective in doing what it's ought to do, that is transport your family and luggage effortlessly and efficiently. The Honda Pilot offers the toughest competition and is also slightly cheaper. All-in-all, if you want a well-rounded family SUV with Japanese reliability, the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder should definitely be on your shortlist.