Originally a traditional truck-based SUV, Nissan’s Pathfinder turned into a pavement-friendly midsize crossover SUV a few years back. Set up with space for seven passengers on three rows of seats, the Pathfinder yields respectable fuel economy for its category, while providing a relaxing, almost sedan-like ride.
What's New for 2017
Freshening of the exterior is accompanied by technical modifications. Revised front sheetmetal includes a V-Motion grille, revised hood, and fresh bumper. The bold new front end features Nissan's signature LED boomerang headlights and LED daytime running lights. A revised front chin spoiler aims to improve aerodynamics. Engine re-engineering has raised horsepower and torque ratings. A new direct-ignition system, also used on the larger Armada; promises better full-throttle performance and emissions. Towing capacity has increased by half a ton. Stiffer springs promise improved roll and pitch/bounce control. Inside, all Pathfinders have an 8-inch color touchscreen.
Choosing Your Nissan Pathfinder
All Pathfinders hold a 3.5-liter V6 engine that now produces 284 horsepower (up 24) and 259 pound-feet of torque (up 19). The V6 mates with a third-generation continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that incorporates D-Step shift logic, which simulates operation of a conventional gear-type transmission. Nissan has been a leader in the use of CVTs, even for relatively large vehicles.
Fuel economy is estimated at 20 mpg in city driving and 27 mpg on the highway (23 mpg combined), dipping to 19/26 mpg (city/highway) with all-wheel drive.
Like most crossover SUVs, the Pathfinder has standard front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available on each trim level. The "intuitive" all-wheel drive system has three modes: 2WD, Auto, and 4WD Lock. Although the all-wheel drive setup is hardly suitable for heavy-duty off-road treks, a Pathfinder is more capable in off-pavement driving than many competitors. When properly equipped, towing capacity now reaches as high as 6,000 pounds.
Notable Pathfinder features include a tilt/glide second-row seat, which eases access to the third row even if a child safety seat is installed. A Drive-Assist display ahead of the driver has a 4-inch color screen. An 8-inch touchscreen now is standard, usable with optional navigation. An available 360-degree Around View Monitor can ease backing out of a driveway or parking-lot space.
As before, four trim levels are offered:
Pathfinder prices stretch from $30,890 to $44,460 (for the Platinum AWD). So, it’s refreshing that all-wheel drive is optional on all trim levels, not just on the most costly versions. You can decide whether to pay more for all-weather capability or for creature comforts; or, if your pocketbook permits, perhaps both. As always, all-wheel drive is most useful in snowbelt states.