Used 2018 Nissan Pathfinder SL for sale 

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2018 Nissan Pathfinder SL
28 Photos

2018 Nissan Pathfinder SL

SL 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$10,499
Est. $142/mo
$4,871 Below market
RMV: $15,370
Mileage 109,827 mi.
Home Delivery
3 Owner
7 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
All Cylinders Auto LLC
Tucson, AZ
4.0
(Based 109 Review)
(520) 37*****
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2019 Nissan Pathfinder SL
6 Photos

2019 Nissan Pathfinder SL

SL 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$17,500
Est. $237/mo
$3,726 Below market
RMV: $21,226
Price Drop, $500
Earlier Price: $18,000 (4 Nov 2024)
Mileage 64,722 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 2 Owner
103 Days in market
BLUE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Davenport Used Car Superstore
Davenport, IA
4.0
(Based 698 Review)
(563) 20*****
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2019 Nissan Pathfinder SL
32 Photos

2019 Nissan Pathfinder SL

SL 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$14,535
Est. $197/mo
$3,698 Below market
RMV: $18,233
Price Drop, $1,154
Earlier Price: $15,689 (7 Nov 2024)
Mileage 75,720 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 3 Owner
100 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
CARite of Cocoa LLC
Cocoa, FL
4.0
(Based 333 Review)
(321) 87*****
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11 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL

SL 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$11,500
Est. $156/mo
$3,492 Below market
RMV: $14,992
Price Rise, $1,000
Earlier Price: $10,500 (10 Nov 2024)
Mileage 78,400 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 2 Owner
14 Days in market
BLACK
SUV
V6
Automatic
HFA MOTORS
Houston, TX
5.0
(Based 6 Review)
(346) 639*****
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6 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL

SL 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$10,500
Est. $142/mo
$2,401 Below market
RMV: $12,901
Mileage 101,743 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
131 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Usa 1 Of Dalton LLC
Dalton, GA
4.0
(Based 69 Review)
(706) 52*****
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6 Photos

2019 Nissan Pathfinder SL

SL 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$9,053
Est. $122/mo
$2,820 Below market
RMV: $11,873
Price Drop, $445
Earlier Price: $9,498 (13 Nov 2024)
Mileage 153,770 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 2 Owner
85 Days in market
SUV
V6
Automatic
Eckert Hyundai Inc
Denton, TX
4.0
(Based 771 Review)
(940) 24*****
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30 Photos

2019 Nissan Pathfinder SL

SL 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$15,086
Est. $204/mo
$2,521 Below market
RMV: $17,607
Price Drop, $1,909
Earlier Price: $16,995 (9 Nov 2024)
Mileage 82,137 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 3 Owner
12 Days in market
SILVER
SUV
V6
Automatic
Latinos Motor of Orlando
Orlando, FL
4.0
(Based 453 Review)
(855) 458*****
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25 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL

SL 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$9,999
Est. $135/mo
$2,398 Below market
RMV: $12,397
Mileage 105,763 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 1 Owner
21 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Automania LLC
Dallas, TX
4.0
(Based 340 Review)
(214) 90*****
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34 Photos

2019 Nissan Pathfinder SL

SL 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$14,609
Est. $198/mo
$2,179 Below market
RMV: $16,788
Price Drop, $380
Earlier Price: $14,989 (14 Nov 2024)
Mileage 93,691 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 2 Owner
14 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
EchoPark Automotive - Nashville
Nashville, TN
4.0
(Based 1750 Review)
(615) 80*****
Check Availability
16 Photos

2019 Nissan Pathfinder SL

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

$12,490
Est. $169/mo
$2,188 Below market
RMV: $14,678
Price Drop, $1
Earlier Price: $12,491 (28 Oct 2024)
Mileage 131,785 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 3 Owner
131 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
Cars Select
Jackson, TN
4.0
(Based 23 Review)
(731) 540*****
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31 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL

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

$13,888
Est. $188/mo
$2,001 Below market
RMV: $15,889
Price Drop, $1,000
Earlier Price: $14,888 (25 Oct 2024)
Mileage 49,641 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
72 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Regency Auto of West Babylon
Goshen, NY
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1 Photo

2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL

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

$11,495
Est. $156/mo
$2,039 Below market
RMV: $13,534
Mileage 97,917 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
2 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
Stone's Kia
Idaho Falls, ID
4.0
(Based 839 Review)
(208) 52*****
Check Availability
10 Photos

2019 Nissan Pathfinder SL

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

$20,474
Est. $277/mo
$1,727 Below market
RMV: $22,201
Price Rise, $594
Earlier Price: $19,880 (11 Nov 2024)
Mileage 40,256 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
10 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
Riverview Chevrolet Buick GMC
Irwin, PA
4.0
(Based 188 Review)
(412) 27*****
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31 Photos

2019 Nissan Pathfinder SL

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

$18,000
Est. $244/mo
$2,084 Below market
RMV: $20,084
Price Rise, $300
Earlier Price: $17,700 (15 Nov 2024)
Mileage 60,854 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
41 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Beyond Motors
Manassas, VA
4.0
(Based 249 Review)
(703) 99*****
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39 Photos

2018 Nissan Pathfinder SL

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

$11,999
Est. $162/mo
$2,949 Below market
RMV: $14,948
Price Drop, $500
Earlier Price: $12,499 (19 Nov 2024)
Mileage 107,172 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
91 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Ally Motors
Whitman, MA
4.0
(Based 275 Review)
(774) 44*****
Check Availability
6 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL

$8,450
Est. $114/mo
$2,122 Below market
RMV: $10,572
Mileage 133,274 mi.
Home Delivery
3 Owner
6 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
Crown Auto Sales
Orange, VA
4.0
(Based 21 Review)
(540) 67*****
Check Availability
16 Photos

2018 Nissan Pathfinder SL

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

$10,995
Est. $149/mo
$2,734 Below market
RMV: $13,729
Price Drop, $1,000
Earlier Price: $11,995 (12 Nov 2024)
Mileage 104,491 mi.
Home Delivery
3 Owner
25 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
Cherokee Auto Sales
Acworth, GA
3.0
(Based 956 Review)
(770) 92*****
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Certified Pre-Owned
6 Photos

Certified 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL

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

$16,400
Est. $222/mo
$2,521 Below market
RMV: $18,921
Mileage 65,685 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
5 Days in market
RED
SUV
V6
Automatic
Nissan North
Columbus, OH
4.0
(Based 2081 Review)
(614) 84*****
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47 Photos

2019 Nissan Pathfinder SL

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

$15,419
Est. $209/mo
$2,170 Below market
RMV: $17,589
Price Drop, $568
Earlier Price: $15,987 (13 Nov 2024)
Mileage 101,927 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
152 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
21st Century Auto Sales LLC
Blackfoot, ID
4.0
(Based 183 Review)

Vehicle History

  • No accident or damage reported to Carindigo
  • 1st owner drove an estimated 29,425 miles/year
  • 1st owner purchased on 04/25/19 and owned in CA until 07/06/20
  • Last serviced at 101,925 miles in Los Angles, CA on 05/16/24
More
(877) 75*****
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9 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL

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

$12,695
Est. $172/mo
$1,322 Below market
RMV: $14,017
Earlier Price: $12,695 (19 Nov 2024)
Mileage 96,425 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Accident, 3 Owner
6 Days in market
SUV
V6
Automatic
Mackey Automotive
Round Lake, NY
3.0
(Based 210 Review)
(518) 87*****
Check Availability
36 Photos

2018 Nissan Pathfinder SL

SL 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$10,499
Est. $142/mo
$2,119 Below market
RMV: $12,618
Price Drop, $200
Earlier Price: $10,699 (18 Nov 2024)
Mileage 120,510 mi.
Home Delivery
3 Owner
18 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
EchoPark Automotive - Houston
Houston, TX
4.0
(Based 4399 Review)
(281) 37*****
Check Availability
57 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL

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

$13,995
Est. $190/mo
$2,449 Below market
RMV: $16,444
Price Drop, $86,004
Earlier Price: $99,999 (8 Oct 2024)
Mileage 71,622 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Accident, 2 Owner
49 Days in market
BLACK
SUV
V6
Automatic
Lehigh Valley Truck & Auto
Schnecksville, PA
3.0
(Based 71 Review)
(610) 76*****
Check Availability
33 Photos

2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL

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

$9,963
Est. $135/mo
$1,930 Below market
RMV: $11,893
Mileage 131,203 mi.
Home Delivery
5 Owner
2 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
Dewey Ford
Ankeny, IA
4.0
(Based 2395 Review)
(515) 52*****
Check Availability
36 Photos

2019 Nissan Pathfinder SL

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

$13,706
Est. $186/mo
$2,222 Below market
RMV: $15,928
Price Drop, $116
Earlier Price: $13,822 (6 Nov 2024)
Mileage 114,222 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
75 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Gary-Jackson Motors
Charlton, MA
4.0
(Based 248 Review)
(508) 43*****
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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.

35 Photos

2018 Nissan Pathfinder SL

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

$14,995
Est. $203/mo
$1,687 Below market
RMV: $16,682
Mileage 79,046 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
30 Days in market
BLACK
SUV
V6
Automatic
Eugens Auto Sale & Repair
Philadelphia, PA
4.0
(Based 354 Review)
(215) 54*****
Check Availability
31 Photos

2019 Nissan Pathfinder SL

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

$12,998
Est. $176/mo
$2,155 Below market
RMV: $15,153
Price Drop, $2,000
Earlier Price: $14,998 (7 Nov 2024)
Mileage 128,032 mi.
Home Delivery
4 Accident, 2 Owner
18 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
Dave Smith Motors
Kellogg, ID
4.0
(Based 1884 Review)
(800) 63*****
Check Availability
37 Photos

2018 Nissan Pathfinder SL

SL 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$13,995
Est. $190/mo
$2,190 Below market
RMV: $16,185
Earlier Price: $13,995 (13 Nov 2024)
Mileage 84,035 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
206 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Baton Rouge Autoplex
Baton Rouge, LA
Check Availability
35 Photos

2019 Nissan Pathfinder SL

SL 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$16,299
Est. $221/mo
$1,578 Below market
RMV: $17,877
Price Drop, $100
Earlier Price: $16,399 (12 Nov 2024)
Mileage 82,173 mi.
Home Delivery
2 Owner
17 Days in market
BLACK
SUV
V6
Automatic
EchoPark Automotive - Nashville
Nashville, TN
4.0
(Based 1750 Review)
(615) 80*****
Check Availability
12 Photos

2018 Nissan Pathfinder SL

SL 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

$8,990
Est. $122/mo
$1,402 Below market
RMV: $10,392
Mileage 138,040 mi.
Home Delivery
3 Accident, 4 Owner
65 Days in market
WHITE
SUV
V6
Automatic
Auto Export Pro Inc.
Orlando, FL
3.0
(Based 60 Review)
(407) 67*****
Check Availability
35 Photos

2019 Nissan Pathfinder SL

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

$17,602
Est. $238/mo
$2,509 Below market
RMV: $20,111
Mileage 81,384 mi.
Home Delivery
1 Owner
8 Days in market
GRAY
SUV
V6
Automatic
Irwin Automotive Group
Laconia, NH
4.0
(Based 2040 Review)
(800) 63*****
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.