Based on the platform that debuted for 2013, the wheelbase for the 2023 model is the same and exterior dimensions are very close to those of the 2020 model. The 3.5L-V6 that powers the Pathfinder is an increasing rarity in this segment. Nissan has retired its CVT transmission from the Pathfinder and replaced it with a conventional nine-speed hydraulic automatic. All-wheel drive is standard. The Drive and Terrain Mode Selector permits the drive to pick Standard, Sport, Eco, Snow, Sand, Mud-Rut and Tow modes. Nissan claims a 6000 pound towing capacity for the new Pathfinder when equipped with a towing package. Nissan, long in a design funk, has, since the release of the Kicks, undergone a Phoenix-like design resurrection. Following themes first seen on the 2021 Rogue, the new Pathfinder looks, clean, purposeful and elegant. Though its underpinnings are old, the outer shell of the Pathfinder is very fresh. The inside is also all new. Pathfinder drivers will face the same gauge package as Rogue drivers do, with clear analogue gauges on most models, with a very a upscale looking, configurable TFT readout on premium trims. A standalone screen dominates the centre of the dashboard, under which the logical climate controls are easily found. New to the Pathfinder is a head-up display unit that will be featured on premium trims. The iOS-Android cellphone interface is standard, with a wireless version of the same, augmented by wireless cellphone charging, offered on premium models. WiFi is standard on the 2022 Pathfinder. The non-mechanical gear selector rests on a “flying bridge”, which rests over a substantial open storage space. The rest of the cabin is visually calm and cabin materials look more attractive than previously. Cabin space was never an issue with the previous Pathfinder and a low-mounted, uncomfortable centre-row seat has been replaced by a comfortable one. The Pathfinder can seat up to eight when equipped with a centre-row bench seat, or seven, with the available centre-row captain chairs. Nissan Safety Shield 360, including a forward collision warning, including for pedestrians, autonomous emergency braking, including in reverse, blind spot, rear cross traffic, lane departure and a driver awareness warning, Pro-Pilot Assist, which combines active cruise control with stop and go and a lane-centering device.

With the Nissan 360 safety suite, a power driver’s seat and deep-tint glass, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, rear parking sonar, active cruise control and L.E.D. headlamps, the base S trim is nicely equipped. The SV upgrade adds a dual-panel sunroof, a 360 degree camera system, remote starting, fog lights and a tow package that increases tow capacity from 3500 to 6000 pounds, foot-gesture tailgate opening and rear seat climate controls, as a bargain price. The Rock Creek trim is significantly overpriced. With leather seating, a power passenger seat, heated middle-row seat and navigation, the SL is priced that reflects the value of the content. The SL Premium trim, with a Bose-branded audio system and a head-up display system, is overpriced. The Platinum, with Aniline-processed leather, a TFT gauge package and a power adjustable steering wheel, is good value. All models are available but few S or SVs trim will be available. About 40 percent of buyers finance, 40 percent lease, with the balance paying cash. Delivery times were one month in early 2024.

Not rated. Predicted reliability is average at best. The new conventional automatic transmission may prove more durable than the CVT it replaced. Premature suspension component wear, especially ball joints, was a real problem on the previous Pathfinder and will likely continue to be so as the platform is carried over.