Squaring off against some of the industry’s most popular three-row SUVs, the Nissan Pathfinder gets a number of updates for the 2026 model year that includes upgraded technology and a more rugged look, backed by an upgraded Rock Creek package for those who want improved off-road capabilities. Headlight.News offers this first look at the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder.
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder.
It’s been a tough few years for Nissan, the second-largest Japanese automaker struggling to revers sliding sales, mounting deficits and growing competition. With a new management team in place Nissan has rolled out a number of critical new and updated products for the 2026 model year, including a complete makeover for the Sentra, it’s second best-selling product line, as well as the Leaf battery-electric vehicle.
Now comes the three-row Pathfinder SUV. First launched in 1985, and assembled in the U.S. since 2004, the updated Pathfinder will go up against some tough players, including the Honda Pilot, as well as newly updated versions of both the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride – the latter debuting early next year as a 2027 model. .
What’s new for 2026
The fifth-generation Pathfinder made its global debut in 2021. It’s undergone some modest upgrades since then, the 2026 model bringing a number welcome new tech features. These include larger digital displays, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now standard.
As a mid-cycle update, design changes include restyled front and rear fascia and a new instrument panel.
Much of what you’ll find, however, is carryover, including Pathfinder’s familiar 3.5-liter V-6 engine. While well reviewed, it means we’ll have to wait for the next-generation SUV to get a hybrid powertrain to match what key competitors, like Honda, Hyundai and Kia now offer.
Design updates
In typical mid-cycle fashion, most of the design changes focus on soft materials, rather than sheet metal, including revised front and rear fascia.
Some of the biggest changes can be found in the cabin where the instrument panel is all-new and now features a new 12.3-inch infotainment screen. SL grades and above also get a 12.3-inch gauge cluster.
All versions feature the Nissan Latch and Glide system making it easy to access the third row – even if there’s a child safety seat mounted in the second row.
More Nissan News
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On-road and off
All versions of the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder feature a 3.5-liter V-6 rated at 284 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque. The engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic and buyers can choose between front or all-wheel-drive. Towing capacity is 3,500 pounds – though most trims can be upgraded to 6,000.
That includes Pathfinder Rock Creek, the trim package for those looking to go off-road. It features unique suspension tuning, a higher ride height and all-terrain tires, as well as unique exterior features including integrated fog lights and a tubular roof rack.
For 2026, Rock Creek offers upgrades including a panoramic moonroof, wireless phone charging, a 12-voltpower outlet in the cargo area and a heated steering wheel.
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