Nissan is in the midst of a major lineup refresh for the US, updating everything from its Kicks and Murano SUVs to the Leaf EV and the Sentra sedan. Next up is one of its most popular SUVs: The three-row Pathfinder.
At first glance, the 2026 Pathfinder doesn’t look dramatically different from the outgoing model, though it does feature a subtly redesigned front end. Look closer, and you’ll notice more substantial updates inside, including upgraded technology and a refined interior.
Up front, the Pathfinder sports a revamped fascia. The grille loses its silver surround in favor of a wider, sleeker design with smaller inserts—echoing the look of the latest Kicks and Murano. It also extends farther toward the corners of the bumper, dipping just below the headlights for a sleeker look.
New for 2026 is a fresh exterior color called Baltic Teal, paired with satin-finish exterior badges and a new 20-inch wheel design exclusive to the Platinum trim. The SL and Platinum models also swap their silver roof rails for black ones. But the biggest updates are found inside the cabin.
Photo by: Nissan
Every 2026 Pathfinder now comes standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Stepping up to the SL trim or higher adds a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Nissan has also reworked the wireless charging pad with a new cooling system, magnetic phone alignment, and a higher charging output—now up from 5 to 15 watts.
The Rock Creek, SL, and Platinum trims gain a high-definition overhead camera, while the “invisible hood” feature—introduced for 2025—returns. On off-road-oriented models like the Rock Creek, this system lets drivers see “through” the hood and engine bay for better visibility on trails.
Under the hood, the 2026 Pathfinder carries over the 3.5-liter V6 engine from last year, producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive remains available across all trims, with the Rock Creek model offering it as standard along with seven terrain modes: Auto, Eco, Tow, Sport, Sand, Mud, and Rut.
The Pathfinder’s towing capacity stays put at 3,500 pounds for the standard models and 6,000 pounds for the Rock Creek, Platinum, SV, and SL trims when properly equipped.
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder will make its debut later this month at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Pricing has yet to be announced, but with the 2025 model starting at $37,895 (including destination), expect a modest price increase for 2026.
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