2012 Nissan Pathfinder: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder is that navigation and its touchscreen became standard on LE V6 models. Otherwise, this was a quiet final year for the third-generation Pathfinder before the 2013 redesign.
About the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder
3rd generation (2005-2012), final year before the 2013 redesign
For 2012, Nissan positioned the Pathfinder as a rugged three-row SUV for buyers who still wanted real towing strength and off-road credibility, but with a more comfortable cabin than a basic truck. Nissan’s brochure mixes adventure language with comfort cues like available leather, navigation, and flexible seating. Compared with family crossovers, the Pathfinder’s main draw was its tougher body-on-frame design, standard three-row layout, and stronger towing focus.
The 2012 Pathfinder is a truck-based, three-row SUV focused on towing, utility, and four-wheel-drive capability. The S is the straightforward workhorse, the SV adds conveniences such as a power driver’s seat and backup camera, and the Silver Edition brings leather, heated front seats, and Bose audio. LE is the most fully equipped version, with navigation and luxury features, while the LE V8 adds a 310-hp 5.6-liter engine.
What changed, by category
2012 Nissan Pathfinder specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter / V8, 5.6 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd | Auto, 5-Spd w/Manual Mode | Auto, 5-Spd w/Manual Mode | Auto, 5-Spd w/Manual Mode |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 15 mpg | 13–14 mpg | 15 mpg | 15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22 mpg | 18–20 mpg | 22 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 266 hp | 266–310 hp | 266 hp | 266 hp |
| Torque | 288 lb-ft | 288–388 lb-ft | 288 lb-ft | 288 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6000 lb | 6000 lb | 6000 lb | 6000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 79.2 cu-ft | 79.2 cu-ft | 79.2 cu-ft | 79.2 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 28.1 in | 28.1 in | 28.1 in | 28.1 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Headlights | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Side Steps | ||||
| Tow Hooks | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Built-In Hard Drive | ||||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Rear Air Conditioning | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Memory Pedals | ||||
| Power Adjustable Pedals | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder compared with the 2011 model?
The main change is that LE V6 models received standard navigation and a touchscreen. The engines, transmission, safety equipment, styling, and truck-based structure otherwise carried over.
Was the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder redesigned?
No. The 2012 Pathfinder remained part of the third generation introduced for 2005, with the same truck-based construction. The full redesign arrived for 2013.
Did the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder get a new engine or transmission?
No. Most 2012 Pathfinders kept the 266-hp 4.0-liter V6, while the LE also had a 310-hp 5.6-liter V8 version. Both used a 5-speed automatic transmission.
Does every 2012 Nissan Pathfinder have navigation?
No. Navigation and its touchscreen were standard on the LE trim for 2012, but they were not standard on the S, SV, or Silver Edition.
Is the 2012 Pathfinder substantially different from the 2011 model?
No. Aside from standard navigation and a touchscreen on LE V6 models, the 2012 Pathfinder is largely a carryover from 2011.