In its first four iterations, Nissan’s Pathfinder has changed identities more often than most people change their minds.

The Pathfinder began life in 1985 as an old-school, truck-based, body-on-frame SUV. In 1995, it morphed into a car-based crossover, a “soft-ute” better suited to the daily commute than the great outdoors.

Someone at Nissan must once again have heard the call of the wild because in 2004 the Pathfinder reverted to its SUV roots.

Now, a 2012 makeover finds the Pathfinder back in the crossover fold, where it has established itself as a fuel-efficient, seven-passenger people-hauler.

In its first four iterations, Nissan’s Pathfinder has changed identities more often than most people change their minds.

The Pathfinder began life in 1985 as an old-school, truck-based, body-on-frame SUV. In 1995, it morphed into a car-based crossover, a “soft-ute” better suited to the daily commute than the great outdoors.

Someone at Nissan must once again have heard the call of the wild because in 2004 the Pathfinder reverted to its SUV roots.

Now, a 2012 makeover finds the Pathfinder back in the crossover fold, where it has established itself as a fuel-efficient, seven-passenger people-hauler.

The Pathfinder ($30,070, including transportation) follows crossover convention; it’s built on a front-wheel-drive sedan platform, with available all-wheel-drive. Under the hood, a 260-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 pairs with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

In the process of returning to crossover status, the Pathfinder lost 500 pounds, helping improve both performance and efficiency. Front-wheel-drive trims earn an EPA rating of 22 mpg combined (20 city/26 highway), and AWD trims follow closely, at 21/19/25.

For 2014, doubles down on the efficiency initiative, adding a new hybrid trim ($37,760) to the mix. The A 15 kW electric motor supplements a supercharged 2.5-liter gasoline engine to produce a combined 250 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque, which is channeled through the same CVT.

In FWD trim, the hybrid is rated at 26 mpg combined (25/28), with AWD at 26/25/27. 

The hybrid is quicker than gasoline models, but tows less. Properly equipped, a conventional Pathfinder can tow up to 5,000 pounds, while the hybrid maxes out at 3,500 lb.

The various hybrid components are packaged to compromise neither passenger nor cargo space. Front- and second-row passengers enjoy abundant leg, hip and headroom. Second-row seats slide fore and aft to accommodate third-row passengers. 

Both the second- and third-row seats fold flat for maximum cargo capacity. Additional storage hides beneath the cargo-area floor.

Standard gear includes rear privacy glass, keyless entry, tri-zone automatic climate control, 60/40-split-folding, sliding and reclining second-row seats, a 50/50-split third-row seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, cruise control and a six-speaker sound system with a six-CD changer.

Key options include leather, heated and cooled front seats, heated second-row seats, heated steering wheel, keyless entry and ignition, multiple-user memory settings and a 13-speaker Bose audio system.

Available tech includes Nissan's Around View Monitor which produces a virtual 360-degree image of the area surrounding the vehicle.

We tested a Pathfinder in the top Platinum trim ($42,410). Other trims are less lavishly outfitted, but all boast excellent materials quality and top-notch fit-and-finish. The touch-screen interface is simplicity personified.
 
Either power train will get the job done, though the CVT dilutes the driving experience. Our tester’s 20-inch wheels produced a firm, stiff-legged ride. Steering is over-boosted, with vague on-center feel. Handling is adequate, no more and no less. 

After experimenting with its identity during its formative years, the Pathfinder has settled into a comfortable and efficient groove. It’s a mindset that’s likely to last.

Don Adair is a Spokane-based freelance writer. Contact him at don@dadair.com.

2014 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum AWD
Vehicle base price: $29,210
Trim level base price: $41,550
As tested: $44,920
Optional equipment: premium entertainment package, dual panorama sunroof, carpeted floor mats.
Tow capacity: 5,000 lb
EPA rating: 21 combined (19 city/25 highway)
Regular unleaded fuel specified

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