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1990 - 1995 Nissan Pathfinder Pre-Owned

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Khatir Soltani

Reliability Makes For Good Used SUV

With the current generation Nissan Pathfinder performing its final model year swan song before being replaced by something altogether new, it seemed fitting to pay tribute to the one that started it all off.

No doubt the Japanese automaker will dub the new improved version Pathfinder as well, but there will be little else to tie it to the outgoing model when it comes to interior and exterior design.

In 1990 the Nissan Pathfinder gained two extra doors, and became even more popular. (Photo: Nissan)

The first Pathfinder took North America like a whirlwind when it entered the scene in 1986, despite hardly being first in the SUV race. Competitive models such as the Jeep Cherokee and Toyota 4Runner had been on sale for years before Nissan entered the picture, while such stalwarts as the Ford Bronco and Chevy Blazer could trace their roots back decades.

I experienced the Pathfinder initially the year it debuted. Its aggressive 2-door styling that immediately won over fans had me doing cartwheels as well. It was like nothing that I'd ever seen previously, highlighted by triangular rear quarter windows, chiseled 'hardbody' fender swells, transformer-style wheels, and a radically blunt nose. I thought it looked best with the optional dealer installed front brush guard, complete with rectangular fog lamps.

The 2-door and 4-door Pathfinders were basically identical inside and out. (Photo: Nissan)

As popular as the Pathfinder was it soon became apparent to Nissan that two additional doors were needed to make it more functional, a move made in 1990 that would prove so popular the 2-door model would be phased out a year later in 1991. While the cool rear triangular side windows were dropped to make way for the rear doors, Nissan once again broke from tradition by mounting the rear door handles sideways on the C-pillars at window height.

Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
As a car enthusiast, he tests and compares vehicles from different categories through the eyes of the consumer, ensuring relevant and objective reviews.
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada