Comfortably Versatile: 2016 Nissan Pathfinder SUV
Last updated in 2014, the Nissan Pathfinder SUV offers exceptional levels of versatility, fuel efficiency and full-size comfort for seven passengers. The Pathfinder starts with an upscale exterior, which presents a smart fusion of signature Nissan styling cues and dynamic strength. The look is adventure-ready with wheel-oriented muscular fenders and a strong, stable stance. The upper body features an open cabin with a low beltline and thin A- and D-pillars, which flow smoothly into the rugged, durable-looking lower body. And, through the use of front and rear spoilers, rear tire deflectors and rear suspension fairings, Pathfinder achieves one of the best aerodynamic performances in the segment – a 0.34 coefficient of drag.
Other exterior details include a wide chrome grille and large aerodynamic headlights, recessed front windshield wipers, roof rails, chrome door handles and large rear combination lights. An available Dual Panorama Moonroof (standard on Platinum) with sliding opening front panel and fixed rear glass panel, which extends over the 2nd and 3rd rows, combines with the large windows to create an open, airy interior environment.
Offered in S, SV, SL and Platinum trim levels, enhancements for 2016 include a revised Almond interior with contrasting black and beige materials and a new Cold Package for the SV trim level – with heated cloth front seats, heated steering wheel and heated outside rearview mirrors. In addition, SL trim level now includes a heated steering wheel (also standard on Platinum).
Power for the Nissan SUV is generated by a 3.5L V6 engine. Torque is transferred to the rear wheel wheels through an advanced Xtronic transmission with D-Step shift logic. Four-wheel drive is an available option.
With the available intuitive four-wheel drive, Pathfinder is the only vehicle in class with selectable 2WD, Auto or 4WD Lock modes for its available intuitive ALL-MODE 4x4-i system. The system lets the driver choose full-time 2WD for maximum fuel economy, Auto mode to automatically monitor conditions and adjust the balance of power between front and rear wheels for best traction, or 4WD Lock mode when the confidence of full-time 4WD is desired.
Pathfinder rides on a unibody platform that weighs almost 500 pounds less than the previous generation’s body-on-frame design, which helps contribute to the enhanced fuel economy performance. Along with reduced weight, the unibody platform provided the designers an opportunity to create the more aerodynamic exterior without compromising headroom or cargo capacity.
Inside the passenger cabin, the 3-row/7-passenger Pathfinder combines comfortable seating with the cargo capacity that families need everyday, offering the benefits of a modern crossover with the comfort of a larger SUV. Use of a unibody platform provides numerous benefits, including a flat floor for enhanced interior packaging flexibility and ample space.
Thoughtful technology is found throughout the interior, starting with the instrument panel, which includes the Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display in the center of the instrument cluster right in front of the driver. The instrument panel also includes a large multifunction center IT display, available Nissan Navigation System with NavTraffic® real-time traffic and NavWeather® weather information (SiriusXM® subscription required, sold separately), Streaming Audio via Bluetooth® and RearView Monitor.
The Nissan SUV’s roominess and unique versatility comes to life in the design of the 2nd and 3rd rows – with exceptional 3rd row access provided by the large rear door openings and the EZ Flex™ Seating System with 5.5 inches of 2nd row seat travel for ease of entry and exit to the 3rd row. The 60/40-split 2nd row features innovative LATCH AND GLIDE™ technology that allows forward movement and access to the 3rdrow with a child safety seat remaining securely in place (on the passenger curb side). The 3rd row seat is a 50/50 split-folding design, offering added cargo flexibility, and it also reclines for greater passenger comfort. Both the 2nd and 3rd row seats fold flat for optimal cargo capacity and there is additional under floor storage in the rear cargo area.
Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 114.2; overall length: 197.2; width: 77.2; height: 69.6
All vehicle measurements are in inches.
Engine: 3.5L V6 – 260 hp at 6400 rpm and 240 lbs-ft of torque at 4400 rpm
Transmission: Xtronic automatic with D-Step Logic Control
EPA Fuel Economy: 20 city27 hwy. (2WD); 19 city/26 hwy. (4WD)
Cargo capacity: 79.8 cubic feet
Towing capacity: 5,000 pounds
Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, traction control, electronic stability control, automatic power door locks, remote keyless entry, side-door guard beams, engine immobilizer, alarm system, and tire pressure monitoring system with easy fill tire alert. SV adds automatic headlamps, front fog lights, Bluetooth hands free phone system, HomeLink universal transceiver, rear view monitor, Nissan Intelligent Key, and rear sonar system, remote engine start. SL adds blind spot warning and rear cross traffic alert. Platinum adds navigation system and Around View monitor.
Warranty
Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile
Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile
Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder starts from $29,780 for the S 2WD upto $43,250 for the Platinum 4WD. Destination charges add $900.
