“Overall, we are satisfied with our new vehicle. We would like to have better gas mileage. We have seen some improvement, but we were hoping for a little better.”
Nissan Pathfinder: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Nissan Pathfinder is a three-row midsize SUV known for family-friendly space, V6 power, useful towing strength, and a more rugged feel than many everyday crossovers. It combines road-trip comfort with available four-wheel drive and light-adventure ability.
The Pathfinder began as a truck-based SUV with real off-road and towing ability. It shifted toward family-friendly crossover design in 2013, gaining easier access and a more road-focused character without giving up its capable image. Since the 2022 redesign, it has blended a boxier, traditional SUV look with a modern cabin, three-row practicality, and a conventional automatic transmission.
Strengths
- Its three-row cabin handles everyday family duty, with seating for up to eight in 2026.
- The V6 delivers straightforward power without relying on a turbocharger.
- The 2026 lineup can tow up to 6,000 pounds in the right configuration.
- Available four-wheel drive and the Rock Creek trim give it more light-adventure ability than a purely city-focused crossover.
- The fifth-generation cabin combines easy passenger access with modern, simple-to-use technology.
- With the seats folded, the 2026 Pathfinder provides as much as 80.5 cubic feet of cargo room.
Who it's for
The Pathfinder suits families that need three rows for school runs, carpools, and road trips but also want an SUV that feels ready for towing or occasional outdoor travel. It is especially relevant to shoppers who prefer straightforward V6 power and the added traction of four-wheel drive.
Nissan Pathfinder lineup
S and SV form the more straightforward side of the lineup, while SL adds a more upscale cabin and extra convenience. Platinum is the top luxury-focused version, with the most interior polish and technology. Since 2023, Rock Creek has been the distinct adventure-focused choice, pairing standard four-wheel drive with off-road suspension tuning, a tow hitch, and a stronger engine tune on premium fuel. Pick Rock Creek for rougher-road character, SL for a balance of comfort and features, or Platinum for the richest Pathfinder experience.
Nissan Pathfinder generations
From 2009 to 2026, the Pathfinder spans three generations. The current 5th Generation — R53 arrived for 2022, following the 4th Generation — R52 (2013–2020).
5th Generation — R53 (2022–Present)
This generation returned to a boxier SUV shape and replaced the previous CVT with a 9-speed automatic. It also brought a more modern three-row cabin and a standard safety suite.
474 In Stock
2026Mid-cycle update
Refreshed front styling and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2025
Minor trim-equipment adjustments only; the powertrain and five-trim lineup carry over.
2024
The five-trim lineup, V6, 9-speed automatic, and standard safety suite carry over.
2023Trim changes
The Rock Creek trim joins with standard 4WD, off-road-tuned suspension, a tow hitch, and a stronger engine tune on premium fuel.
2022New generation
Full redesign with boxier styling, a 9-speed automatic replacing the CVT, and a standard safety suite.
4th Generation — R52 (2013–2020)
The Pathfinder changed from a truck-based SUV to a lighter family-focused crossover with seven seats. It used a 3.5-liter V6 and CVT, then received stronger performance, updated styling, and more technology for 2017.
90 In Stock
2020
Final year of the generation, with no significant lineup-wide updates.
2019
Rear parking sensors and six USB ports became standard, while SV and SL gained added safety or lighting equipment.
2018
Automatic emergency braking and Rear Door Alert became standard across the lineup.
2017Mid-cycle update
Updated styling, a new 8-inch touchscreen, revised steering and suspension, and a stronger 284-hp V6 with a 6,000-pound tow rating.
2016
The lineup carried over; SL added a heated steering wheel.
2015
Revised CVT programming made acceleration feel more like a traditional automatic; AWD models added hill descent control.
2014
The first Pathfinder Hybrid arrived on SV, SL, and Platinum trims, while the V6 models remained largely unchanged.
2013New generation
Full redesign on a lighter crossover platform with seven seats, a 3.5-liter V6, and a CVT.
3rd Generation (2005–2012)
This was a truck-based, three-row Pathfinder built with towing and off-road use in mind. Most versions used a 4.0-liter V6, while later LE models also offered a V8.
1 In Stock
2012
Final year of the generation, with no significant lineup-wide updates.
2011Trim changes
The 25th-anniversary Silver Edition joined, and the SV replaced the former SE trim.
2010Trim changes
The SE Off Road model left the lineup as Nissan reduced configurations and reorganized option packages.
2009
Side-impact and side-curtain airbags became standard on every trim.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Nissan Pathfinder.
2026 Nissan Pathfinder2025 Nissan Pathfinder2024 Nissan Pathfinder2023 Nissan Pathfinder2022 Nissan Pathfinder2020 Nissan Pathfinder2019 Nissan Pathfinder2018 Nissan Pathfinder2017 Nissan Pathfinder2016 Nissan Pathfinder2015 Nissan Pathfinder2014 Nissan Pathfinder2013 Nissan Pathfinder2012 Nissan Pathfinder2011 Nissan Pathfinder2010 Nissan Pathfinder2009 Nissan Pathfinder
Frequently asked questions
Is the Nissan Pathfinder a three-row SUV?
Yes. The Pathfinder is a four-door, three-row SUV built around family space, road-trip usefulness, V6 power, and stronger towing and light-adventure ability than a typical city-focused crossover.
How many people does a Nissan Pathfinder seat?
It seats up to eight in newer models. Some versions use second-row captain’s chairs instead of a bench, reducing capacity while making the third row easier to reach. Earlier fourth-generation Pathfinders generally used a seven-seat layout.
Does the Nissan Pathfinder come as a hybrid?
Yes, but only for 2014 in this history. The Pathfinder Hybrid paired a supercharged 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor and was sold as SV Hybrid, SL Hybrid, and Platinum Hybrid. Newer Pathfinders use a gas V6 rather than a hybrid system.
Does the Nissan Pathfinder have 4WD?
Yes. Pathfinder lineups have included both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive versions. Rock Creek models use standard 4WD, while drivetrain availability on other trims depends on the year and configuration.
How much can a Nissan Pathfinder tow?
Newer Pathfinders are rated from 3,500 to 6,000 pounds, depending on equipment. The 6,000-pound maximum first arrived with the 2017 V6 update. Check the exact vehicle’s drivetrain and towing equipment before matching it to a trailer.
Does the Nissan Pathfinder use a CVT or a regular automatic transmission?
It depends on the generation. Fourth-generation models from 2013 through 2020 use a CVT, which has no fixed gear steps. Since the 2022 redesign, the Pathfinder has used a conventional 9-speed automatic.
How did the Pathfinder change from an older truck-based SUV to a family crossover?
Models through 2012 used a truck-style frame and emphasized towing and off-road use. The 2013 redesign moved to a lighter, more family-focused crossover structure. The 2022 redesign kept that layout but added a boxier look, a 9-speed automatic, and more modern safety tech.
Nissan Pathfinder Reviews
What owners are saying about the Nissan Pathfinder.
4.1
Nissan Pathfinder
(5,612 reviews)
“This vehicle is overall much better than how Car and Driver and Motor Trend describe in all categories! This is the best new vehicle I've ever purchased. I drove several SUV's that are supposedly higher rated, but the Pathfinder drove better and met all of my needs at a much better price point.”
“Pathfinder is comfortable, practical, good looking, spacious car that is fairly priced in todays SUV market”
“I love my Nissan Pathfinder..Also love that I can tow a flat bed trailer with my toys on it..This is my 2nd owned Nissan and I loved them both..”
“Should have button to shut off controls in back (to stop kids from adjusting). Navigation system should be fully functional while car is operating (for passenger). Default button on heater should not be "recirculation". Voice control etc. is not intuitive or easy to figure out.”
“The 2015 Nissan Pathfinder is a practical vehicle for us. It serves a purpose for needs at this time.”
Sources
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2025 / 2025 Nissan Pathfinder Brochure En
- nissanusa.com — Vehicles / Crossovers Suvs / 2025 Pathfinder
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2024 / 2024 Nissan Pathfinder Brochure En
- nissanusa.com — Vehicles / Future Concept / 2026 Pathfinder
- nissanusa.com — Crossovers Suvs / 2025 Pathfinder / Features
- nissanusa.com — Crossovers Suvs / 2025 Pathfinder / Rock Creek Edition
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2023 / 2023 Nissan Pathfinder Brochure En
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2022 / 2022 Nissan Pathfinder Brochure En
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2020 / 2020 Nissan Pathfinder Brochure En
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2019 / 2019 Nissan Pathfinder En
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2019 / 2019 Nissan Pathfinder Brochure En
- owners.nissanusa.com — Pathfinder / 2018 / 2018 Pathfinder quick reference guide