2012 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2012 Nissan Pathfinder brings SUV practicality, available four-wheel drive, and substantial towing capability to Larry H. Miller Nissan Mesa in Mesa, Arizona. Shoppers will find model specifications, trim-level pricing context, competitor comparisons, configuration details, and guidance for researching this Nissan through a dealership serving the Phoenix East Valley and Greater Phoenix metro area, including Tempe, Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert, and Phoenix. With a choice of V6 or V8 power, rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, and seating-area cargo capacity behind the rear seats, the Pathfinder can be evaluated for commuting, family transportation, and towing needs. Pricing, efficiency, dimensions, and dealership resources are organized below for a clearer purchase decision.

Starting MSRP

$29,290

Horsepower

266–310 hp

EPA MPG

13–14 city / 18–20 hwy

Max Towing

6,000–7,000 lbs

Drivetrain

Rear Wheel Drive / Four Wheel Drive

Fuel

Premium Unleaded (Recommended)

Body Style

SUV

How the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder Compares With Its Competitors

Pricing depends on trim and powertrain, while towing, fuel economy, drivetrain, and engine output help define how the Pathfinder fits among same-year SUVs. The 2012 Nissan Pathfinder starts at $29,290; MSRP excludes tax, title, registration and dealer fees.

Compared with the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Pathfinder starts at $29,290 versus $29,195, while Pathfinder output ranges from 266 to 310 hp and Grand Cherokee output ranges from 290–470 hp. Pathfinder fuel economy is 13–14 city / 18–20 highway MPG with 6,000–7,000 lbs of towing and rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, while the Jeep lists 12–16 city / 18–23 hwy, 5,000–7,200 lbs, and four-wheel drive / rear-wheel drive; the Pathfinder suits shoppers focused on its configuration, while the Jeep comparison includes a broader power and towing range.

Against the 2012 Dodge Durango, the Pathfinder starts at $29,290 compared with $28,995, and Pathfinder power ranges from 266 to 310 hp versus 290–360 hp for the Durango. The Pathfinder offers 13–14 city / 18–20 highway MPG and 6,000–7,000 lbs of towing, while the Durango lists 16 city / 23 hwy and 5,000 lbs; the Pathfinder may suit buyers prioritizing towing capacity, while the Durango comparison emphasizes its listed fuel economy and seven-seat configuration.

The 2012 Chevrolet Traverse starts at $29,660 compared with the Pathfinder's $29,290, and its horsepower range is 281–288 hp versus 266 to 310 hp for the Pathfinder. The Traverse lists 17 city / 24 hwy and 5,200 lbs of towing with front-wheel drive, while the Pathfinder lists 13–14 city / 18–20 highway MPG, 6,000–7,000 lbs, and rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive; the Traverse may appeal to shoppers focused on its listed economy and front-wheel-drive layout, while the Pathfinder offers the higher listed towing range and available four-wheel drive.

Specifications and Configuration

The 2012 Nissan Pathfinder is an SUV with a V-layout engine, automatic transmission, and five speeds. Across its five trims, engine displacement ranges from 3,954 to 5,552 cc, with engine sizes from 4.0 to 5.6 liters, six to eight cylinders, and 266 to 310 horsepower.

Torque ranges from 288 to 388 lb-ft, with peak power at 5,200 to 5,600 rpm and peak torque at 3,400 to 4,000 rpm. The Pathfinder uses premium unleaded fuel as recommended, and drivetrain configurations include rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive.

Exterior dimensions include a 192.3-inch length, 72.8-inch width, 72.6 to 72.7-inch height, and 112.2-inch wheelbase. Curb weight ranges from 4,795 to 5,051 pounds, fuel capacity is 21.1 gallons, and cargo space behind the rear seats measures 16.5 cubic feet.

Buying a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder in Mesa

Larry H. Miller Nissan Mesa serves Mesa and the surrounding Phoenix East Valley from 2025 W Riverview Auto Dr, Mesa, AZ 85201, just off the Loop 202 and Dobson Road. The dealership supports shoppers researching Nissan vehicles, certified pre-owned models, and used vehicles from various makes.

Vehicle availability changes over time, and the store receives vehicles on a rolling basis. Review current options through the search inventory link, or use the trade-in resource at value your trade when planning a purchase.

What to Weigh Before Buying

Trim selection changes the Pathfinder's engine, drivetrain, efficiency, and towing profile. The S trim uses the 4.0-liter V6 with 266 horsepower, 288 lb-ft of torque, and rear-wheel drive, while the LE V8 uses a 5.6-liter V8 with 310 horsepower, 388 lb-ft, and four-wheel drive.

Fuel economy ranges from 13 to 14 city MPG and 18 to 20 highway MPG across the model's trims. Towing capacity ranges from 6,000 to 7,000 pounds, so shoppers should match the selected trim's capability with their intended trailer and regular driving needs.

A dealership visit can help compare the Pathfinder's dimensions, seating-area cargo space, drivetrain choices, and trim-specific equipment in person. Confirm vehicle condition, pricing, and availability before making a purchase decision.