Nissan has finally revived the long-dormant Pathfinder. This consistently selling vehicle is especially capable on rougher terrains, which draws the public even though it is not the latest design. The general public praised this vehicle for its dependability when it was most needed. As a result, it should come as no surprise that the exterior of the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder received the least attention. True, Nissan made a point of updating it in a way that says “ready for the next five years,” but the car’s technology and engine are where the truly exciting bits are. The dependable Pathfinder has been nicely upgraded, is slightly more high-class, and is unquestionably ready for the coming years.
Exterior design
Enough has changed on the outside of the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. The most recent redesign occurred in 2013, which is quite recent in the automotive world. Although Nissan once had a Pathfinder model that lasted ten years without any major changes, the last Pathfinder wasn’t enough. So, let’s take a look at how Nissan examined the exterior, beginning with the front.
The new grille and headlights are very visible. They no longer run in a straight line like on the previous Pathfinder. Instead, the grille has retained its relative size, while the headlights have shrunk significantly. Instead of the angular outline of its predecessor, the grille’s chrome outline is now a rounded V-shape. The mesh pattern inside the grille created three dark lanes with air holes running through them. The headlights are shaped differently, with a zigzag bottom line and a new lens design.
The only, but effective, change on the side is the addition of side mirrors. Unlike the predecessor’s round and traditional headlights, these are more oval. They now include the car’s turn signals and are reminiscent of Ferrari side mirrors.
The rear of the car received only minor modifications. The taillights are the same shape as its predecessor’s, but they are now completely red rather than half clear. This actually feels like a step backwards, as all red taillights are considered outdated.
There are eight exterior colors to choose from.
Interior design
The interior hasn’t changed much in terms of functionality, but it still looks like a million bucks. The center console appears to be much less cluttered. This is due to the removal of chrome from the buttons and sides, as well as the use of matte materials. Furthermore, Nissan claims that the center console has been redesigned, but this is not the case. Although some cosmetic changes have been made, the consoles of the 2016 and 2017 Nissan Pathfinder appear to be very similar.
The rest of the interior is simple and clean, and Nissan hit the nail on the head with this automotive design trend. For 2017, new metallic and wooden inserts for the door panels and dashboard are available. These also have a more matte finish, which contributes to the interior’s simplistic and clean tone.
There is also a new infotainment system with an eight-inch screen. Additional driver assistance and infotainment functions have been added to the digital instrument cluster. The Bose Premium Audio System with 13 speakers, which is also found in the Nissan Rogue crossover, is available as an option on higher trim levels.
Engine specs
Now, let’s look at the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder feature that has seen the most changes. Although the 2017 Pathfinder retains the same 3.5 liter V6 engine, direct injection is now used. A variable displacement oil pump is another new and improved engine component. An electronic control module, air intake system, and pistons are also new. All of these changes add up to 284 horsepower, which is 24 more than the Pathfinder from last year.
The engine is paired with an automatic transmission that Nissan modified to allow it to accelerate more naturally. Front-wheel drive is standard, but four-wheel drive is available on all trims.
There is also a reinforced trailer hitch. This allows the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder to tow up to 6000 pounds (2720 kg), a 1000-pound (453-kg) increase over its predecessor. Finally, the suspension and chassis were updated to improve the driving experience on rough terrain.
Tech specs
The infotainment system comes standard with SiriusXM radio, TravelLink, and Bluetooth phone connectivity. A rearview camera is also standard.
The new NissanConnect navigation system is available as an option on the SV and SL trims and as standard on the Platinum. The driver can speak the destination and the navigation system will direct you there. A three-year SiriusXM Traffic subscription automatically updates the navigation maps.
Intelligent Cruise Control is another optional feature that allows you to follow the car in front of you. Other features include Forward Emergency Braking, Moving Object Detection, Blind Spot Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. These are either standard or optional on higher trims.
Price and sale date
The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder‘s price has not risen significantly. The base S trim with FWD starts at $30,290. The highest trim level Platinum FWD starts at $42,070.
The 2017 Pathfinder is not yet available in Europe. Nissan hinted last year that the 2016 Pathfinder would be released, but they didn’t. We believe this is because they intend to bring the 2017 Pathfinder. Earlier Pathfinders were only available with a diesel engine, and if the Pathfinder does make it to Europe, it will have the same engine.