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History of the Nissan Pathfinder

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2022 Nissan Pathfinder
Photo: Nissan

First introduced in 1986, the Nissan Pathfinder was created so the Japanese automaker could introduce a small SUV to the U.S. market. Over 30 years later, the Pathfinder is not only longer than it was when it was first introduced, but it’s also significantly more popular and has helped Nissan continue making a name for itself in the American market.


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Early history and updates

Based on the body of the Nissan Hardbody Truck, the first Pathfinder began production in 1985 at Nissan’s Kyushu, Japan, plant. As the first SUV offered by Nissan to the American market, the Pathfinder joined the ranks of other SUVs like the Chevrolet Blazer and Jeep Cherokee. When the Nissan Pathfinder was introduced, it had a two-door body and an extremely rugged, angular look. It was equipped with a standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine but certain countries allowed an upgrade to a diesel 2.7-liter with a turbocharger option.

The Pathfinder went through many facelifts over the years and entered its second generation in 1995 with a more modern look. It also arrived with new engine selections and a unibody construction, rather than its original body-on-frame style. The Pathfinder’s third generation came in 2004, where its body became even boxier and larger than before. Then, in 2012, the large SUV entered its fourth generation. During this time, the Pathfinder Hybrid became available, followed by additional facelifts in 2017 and 2019.

A red 1989 Nissan Pathfinder parked at a convenience store
1989 Nissan Pathfinder
Photo: RLGNZLZ via CC

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Recent generation

Nissan skipped the 2021 model year for the Pathfinder and had it enter its fifth generation as a 2022 model. The debut brought along a whole new look for the iconic Nissan SUV, drawing design cues from the Armada and Rogue. The interior was also upgraded, featuring a larger touch-screen display, second-row bucket seats, and wireless Apple CarPlay capability.