“The 2016 Nissan Pathfinder is a sporty, versatile, multi-use vehicle, third row that seats up to 7 and has multiple seat configurations for lots of different loads, is comfy, handles well and is perfect for long distance or in town.”
2016 Nissan Pathfinder: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2016 Nissan Pathfinder is mostly a carryover, with the SL’s newly standard heated steering wheel as the headline change. A few other features became standard on select trims, but the engine, styling, seating layout and four-trim lineup stayed the same.
About the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder
4th generation (2013-2020), fourth model year and last year before the 2017 mid-cycle refresh
Nissan framed the Pathfinder as a family adventure SUV centered on seven-passenger seating, easy access to all three rows and a smooth, road-focused driving experience. Its main distinction was the second-row LATCH AND GLIDE system, which could open a path to the third row while a child seat was installed. A V6, practical cabin flexibility, three-zone climate control and FWD or traction-focused 4WD configurations supported everyday family travel and recreation.
The 2016 Pathfinder is a seven-seat family SUV offered in S, SV, SL and Platinum trims, all with a 260-hp V6 and a continuously variable automatic transmission. The SV adds everyday conveniences such as remote start and a rearview camera, while the SL focuses on leather, heated seating and driver-assistance features. Platinum tops the range with navigation, surround-view parking cameras, Bose audio, heated and cooled front seats, a panoramic roof and towing hardware.
What changed, by category
Safety
Blind-spot monitoring became standard on the Platinum trim instead of optional.
Tech and comfort
The SL gained a standard heated steering wheel, while remote start became standard on the SV instead of optional.
2016 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 | ||||
| 360 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 | ||||
| Built-In Hard Drive | ||||
| 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
Did the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder receive major changes?
No. The 2016 Pathfinder is mostly a carryover from 2015, with only a few standard-equipment changes on the SV, SL and Platinum trims.
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder?
The main change is a heated steering wheel becoming standard on the SL trim. The SV and Platinum also gained previously optional equipment as standard.
Did the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder get a new engine or transmission?
No. Every 2016 Pathfinder retained the 260-hp 3.5-liter V6 and continuously variable automatic transmission used for 2015.
Which features became standard on the 2016 Pathfinder?
The SL gained a standard heated steering wheel, remote start became standard on the SV, and blind-spot monitoring became standard on the Platinum.
Was the 2016 Pathfinder redesigned?
No. The 2016 Pathfinder kept the same body, styling, cabin layout and basic structure as 2015; it was the final model year before the broader 2017 refresh.
2016 Nissan Pathfinder Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder.
4.1
2016 Nissan Pathfinder
(394 reviews)
“Overall I love the Nissan Pathfinder. It's very spacious and it's a comfortable ride. I have some issues with the backup camera. The other features so far is satisfactory.”
“Not good on gas mileage, but very roomy inside, has 3rd row, rides comfortably. No back up camera or Bluetooth. Basic model, no extras”