“Hate 2wd, had fan assembly and battery/alternator problems, a/c doesn't adjust only cold or hot.”
2015 Nissan Pathfinder: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2015 Nissan Pathfinder is revised CVT programming that makes acceleration feel more like a traditional automatic transmission. This is otherwise a light-update year, although the hybrid is dropped and several trims gain equipment.
About the 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
4th generation Pathfinder (R52), introduced for 2013; 2015 is the third model year of the pre-refresh version, two years before the 2017 facelift and powertrain update.
Nissan positions the Pathfinder as a family-focused three-row crossover that blends road-trip comfort, easy cabin access, and everyday utility with light-duty adventure ability. The marketing centers on room for seven, the EZ Flex second row for easier third-row access, available 4WD, and a smoother, more efficient crossover design than the old truck-based Pathfinder. For most buyers, it is the practical, comfort-first Pathfinder rather than a hard-core off-road SUV.
The 2015 Pathfinder remains a three-row, seven-seat family SUV with a 3.5-liter V6. The S covers the basics, while the SV adds everyday conveniences such as a power driver’s seat, rearview camera, and parking sensors. The leather-trimmed SL adds heated front and rear seats, and the Platinum tops the range with a surround-view camera, Bose audio, heated and cooled front seats, and a standard dual panorama moonroof.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The CVT receives revised programming that imitates conventional gear changes more closely. The hybrid powertrain is dropped from the SV, SL, and Platinum, leaving the 3.5-liter V6 as the lineup’s engine. AWD models also gain hill descent control for maintaining a controlled speed on steep downhill grades.
Safety
Blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert become standard on the SL and Platinum.
Tech and equipment
The Platinum’s dual panorama moonroof changes from optional to standard equipment.
2015 Nissan Pathfinder specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.5 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, CVT |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 20 mpg | 20 mpg | 20 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 27 mpg | 27 mpg | 27 mpg | 27 mpg |
| Horsepower | 260 hp | 260 hp | 260 hp | 260 hp |
| Torque | 240 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 5000 lb | 5000 lb | 5000 lb | 5000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 79.8 cu-ft | 79.8 cu-ft | 79.8 cu-ft | 79.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 30.7 in | 30.7 in | 30.7 in | 30.7 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Headlights | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Hill Descent Control | ||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Tow Hooks | ||||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Cooled Seats | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Memory Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2015 Nissan Pathfinder?
The biggest change is revised CVT programming. It makes the transmission behave more like a traditional automatic by creating the sensation of distinct gear changes, reducing the steady droning feel commonly associated with a CVT.
Does the 2015 Nissan Pathfinder still have a hybrid version?
No. The hybrid powertrain offered on the 2014 SV, SL, and Platinum is dropped for 2015. The 2015 lineup uses a 3.5-liter V6 paired with a CVT.
What changed on AWD versions of the 2015 Pathfinder?
AWD versions gain hill descent control for 2015. This system helps the Pathfinder maintain a controlled speed when traveling down a steep grade.
Which 2015 Pathfinder trims added blind-spot warning?
The SL and Platinum add standard blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert for 2015. These systems warn the driver about vehicles alongside the SUV or crossing behind it while reversing.
Is the 2015 Pathfinder a major update over the 2014 model?
No. The 2015 Pathfinder is a light update rather than a redesign. Its main advantages over the 2014 model are more natural-feeling CVT programming, hill descent control on AWD versions, added safety equipment on the SL and Platinum, and a standard dual panorama moonroof on the Platinum; however, the hybrid is no longer offered.
2015 Nissan Pathfinder Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2015 Nissan Pathfinder.
4.1
2015 Nissan Pathfinder
(759 reviews)
“The 2015 Nissan Pathfinder is a practical vehicle for us. It serves a purpose for needs at this time.”
“I very much enjoy my new Pathfinder! It meets my everyday needs and has exceeded my expectations!”