Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot

[South FLA]

Forum members, does anyone own a late model (2005-Current) Nissan Pathfinder S/SE/LE 2x4, Toyota Highlander 4x4, Honda Pilot 4x4?

If so, what are your likes and dislikes, and any known factory issues.

I am in the market for a late model used SUV.  My wife likes the Pilot, better than the Highlander and says its a toss up between the Pathfinder and Pilot.  I like the Pathfinder a bit better for its increased towing capacity, may tow boat on family trips to Jacksonville from South FL.

[Eddie Munster]

First and foremost, get a membership to Consumer Reports and research those vehicles. That should weed out some.

Next, I would try Googling for all those vehicles and try to find which one has the most complaints and/or technical issues.

Whatever vehicle survives, then it's a matter of personal preference and what deal you get.

[SirSnookalot]

Buy off lease, if not buy new.

Many auto's have forums that you can join and get some info, I joined the forum of my new car.

[BrianinMD]

Well its not exactly what you are looking at but close enough for some thoughts. I have a 2007 Xterra, same engine, transmission, frame as the Pathfinder only a little shorter. I beat that thing up and have never had a problem with it. The engine is the VQ-V6 4 liter version, this setup has been on the May's (engine manufacturer's group) top 10 list for 12 years, most engine's don't last that long let alone be top 10.  The frame is the one developed for the Titan, its very strong. The Pathfinder adds some length so it has some added space, and if you want even more power then the 260HP/280lb-ft V6 on new Pathfinder models you can choose the 5.6l V8 from the Titan. The Pathfinder is a choice you would not regret.

[KU_Bassmaster.]

Well this is kind of crazy ....

I am in the market for an '06 or newer Pathfinder, 05 or newer 4runner, or an 06 or newer Pilot.

I personally am ranking them in that order.  If you plan on towing a boat with any size then I would definitely stay away from a Pilot.  There are tons of horror stories on the net about transmission issues on the Pilots while towing.  After all, it is NOT A TRUCK.  It's basically an Accord with an SUV body.  I am assuming the same could be said about the Highlander .... I am not sure about that.  Just guessing

[aceman387]

you could also go to a library and look at back issues of consumer reports or car and driver  and other magazines for free.

[TopDog]

My wife has a 2005 Honda Pilot. I drive it all the time. I am so impressed with how smooth and nice it is, I really am considering getting a Honda Ridgline for my next vehicle.

The pilot is quiet, solid, has plenty or room and you can find a 1-2 year old one with under 30k miles for below 20. I took it out in the snow to play and I had fun. The 4wd system is very nice.

[BadKarma42]

Two good suggestions already presented:

Consumer Reports

Buy one coming off of a lease

I'll add, keeping the wife happy.

[Little Luey]

I am very partial to Toyotas, I tried selling them for a living a few years back when I lost the job I had and was impressed with the quality that goes in to making a Toyota. I don't know much about the Honda & Nissan production plants but I know they are also reputable.

As someone mentioned already the Pilot is an Accord dressed up as an SUV (uniframe), but then again the Highlander is from a Camry base, probably not the best towing vehicle. Not sure about the Pathfinder.

Back when I was at the dealership, all Highlanders were built in Japan, not sure if it is different now.

good luck with your decision.