Overview
Praised for its towing capabilities, interior comfort, and safety features, the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder emerges as a strong contender in the realm of 3-row SUVs. Sporting a rugged yet stylish exterior, it distinguishes itself from its competitors with a touch of outdoorsy flair. Starting at $35,810, the Pathfinder is engineered with a focus on family comfort and safety, boasting an available sophisticated 4-wheel-drive system that instills a sense of adventure for any terrain. Notably, the Rock Creek trim level amplifies the Pathfinder’s off-road persona, while its segment-leading towing capacity of 6,000 pounds, when properly equipped, further enhances its appeal. Nevertheless, it’s the well-appointed cabin, family-friendly amenities, and advanced technologies that continue to draw buyers to the Pathfinder year after year.
What’s New for 2024?
Considering the Pathfinder’s comprehensive redesign in 2022 and the recent addition of the Rock Creek trim in 2023, minimal changes are anticipated for the 2024 model year. Typically, manufacturers might introduce a few updates such as new wheel designs and exterior color options, while retaining the core features and attributes that have contributed to the Pathfinder’s appeal.
2024 Nissan Pathfinder Models and Pricing
In the Nissan lineup, alongside the 2024 Pathfinder priced at $35,810, there’s the 5-passenger Murano available at $33,860 and the smaller Rogue starting from $27,760. For those seeking greater towing capabilities within the 3-row SUV category, Nissan offers the Armada, priced around $51,000, boasting a towing capacity of up to 8,500 pounds.
Nissan offers the Pathfinder with an all-wheel-drive option, referred to as 4-wheel drive (4WD), at an additional cost of $1,900. Notably, the new Rock Creek trim level comes equipped with 4WD as standard. Among the five available trim levels for the Pathfinder, the SL trim stands out as offering the most value, providing a balanced blend of features and affordability.
| 2024 Nissan Pathfinder | MSRP |
| Pathfinder S | $35,810 |
| Pathfinder SV | $38,630 |
| Pathfinder SL | $42,230 |
| Pathfinder Rock Creek | $43,630 |
| Pathfinder Platinum | $48,780 |
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
While maintaining the 3.5-liter V-6 engine carried over from the previous generation, the Pathfinder undergoes a transmission upgrade, swapping the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) for a new nine-speed automatic gearbox. Typically producing 284 horsepower across most models, the V-6 engine receives a boost to 295 horsepower in the Rock Creek trim. While front-wheel drive comes standard, all trim levels offer the option of upgrading to all-wheel drive. Opting for the all-wheel-drive configuration also unlocks a set of seven drive modes, including specialized off-road modes like Sand and Mud/Rut. During testing, our front-wheel-drive Pathfinder SL test model achieved a 0-60 mph time of 6.7 seconds, while the all-wheel-drive variant accomplished it in 6.6 seconds. These results position the all-wheel-drive Pathfinder as faster than both the Kia Telluride and the Toyota Highlander. Although the Pathfinder’s handling lacks excitement and is rather forgettable, its ride quality is smooth, and Nissan’s incorporation of sound-deadening materials ensures a quiet cabin ambiance during cruising.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
As per the EPA, the most fuel-efficient version of the Pathfinder is the variant equipped with optional all-wheel drive, boasting ratings of 21 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined. Meanwhile, the front-wheel-drive model matches these city and combined ratings but slightly lags behind on the highway, achieving 26 mpg. During our own 75-mph highway fuel economy assessment, our all-wheel-drive test model surpassed its EPA rating, delivering an impressive 28 mpg.
Driving The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder
The latest Pathfinder has undergone extensive testing both on and off the road, enduring different terrains such as mud, snow, and regular paved roads where most Pathfinders are typically driven. Throughout these assessments, the Pathfinder has consistently provided a smooth and comfortable ride, showcasing its suitability as a family SUV.
Powered by the standard V6 engine, the Pathfinder delivers responsive performance, while the 9-speed automatic transmission ensures seamless and well-timed shifts precisely when required. Opting for the 4-wheel drive (4WD) option offers access to seven selectable drive modes including Standard, Sport, Eco, Snow, Sand, Mud/Rut, and Tow, enabling drivers to customize their driving experience as needed.
With 4WD equipped, the Pathfinder demonstrates more than adequate off-road capabilities for most drivers seeking a practical 3-row SUV, particularly with the introduction of the new Rock Creek model. Although the modern Pathfinder may not match the off-road prowess of its predecessors, it still possesses admirable skills. It navigates mountainous roads, maneuvers through muddy terrain, and handles snowy streets confidently, making it a versatile option for diverse driving conditions.
Versatile Interior
The Pathfinder offers versatile seating options, including second-row captain’s chairs and a removable center console, allowing for flexible configurations and accommodating up to eight passengers.
While praised for its comfortable seats, some readers noted a lack of height adjustment for the front passenger seat. Families will appreciate the convenience of four cupholders and two USB ports in the third-row seat area.
Inside, the modern and spacious interior features a range of tech upgrades, such as a large digital instrument panel, a head-up display, and a touchscreen infotainment system.
Unique air vents and ambient interior lighting enhance the cabin’s appeal, while multiple upholstery options and interior environments cater to varied preferences.
Practicality is further enhanced by ample storage options, including a bridge-style center console with an electronic shifter and under-floor cubbies in the rear.
Although the Pathfinder offers impressive cargo space, especially with the second and third rows folded, third-row legroom falls short compared to competitors. Nonetheless, the Pathfinder’s versatility and practicality make it a compelling choice for families and adventurers alike.
Rugged Look
Nissan drew inspiration from adventure gear for the current Pathfinder’s design, aiming for a robust and capable appearance. This is evident in its bold features, including a blunt front face, flatter hood, and wider stance, accentuated by prominent fender flares and reduced overhangs.
Embracing its rugged identity, the Pathfinder stands out amidst competitors like the Hyundai Palisade, which lean towards elegance.
The Pathfinder’s design incorporates Nissan’s signature V-Motion grille, with subtle nods to its heritage such as the three slots mirroring those on the original 1986 model’s hood. The rear side windows pay homage to its earliest ancestor, adding a touch of nostalgia to the modern SUV’s aesthetic. Available two-tone paint options, along with distinctive LED headlights and U-shaped side design elements, contribute to its muscular appearance.
At the rear, the Pathfinder sports a boxy profile complemented by sleek LED taillights, while the prominent “Pathfinder” badge in oversized satin chrome letters adds a bold finishing touch to the liftgate. With a choice of fourteen colors and combinations, including striking two-tone schemes, the 2024 Pathfinder offers ample customization to suit diverse preferences, from the vibrant Scarlet Ember with Super Black Metallic to the outdoorsy Obsidian Green Pear.
Top-Tier Safety Ratings
The Pathfinder achieved the prestigious Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) award, recognized as the gold standard in safety ratings. Additionally, it garnered a full five-star rating in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s overall safety assessment for 2023.
Specifications
| Fuel Economy | City 20 mpg/Hwy 27 mpg/Comb 23 mpg |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Basic Warranty | 3 years or 36000 miles |
| Max Seating | 7 |
| Horsepower | 284 @ 6400 RPM |
| Cargo Space | 80.5 cu.ft. |
Dimensions, Weights & Capacities
| Curb Weight | 4317 lbs. |
| EPA Passenger | 148.0 cu.ft. |
| EPA Total Interior | 164.6 cu.ft. |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.5 gallons |
| Front Head Room | 42.3 inches |
| Front Leg Room | 44.3 inches |
| Max Seating Capacity | 7 |
| Minimum Ground Clearance | 7.1 inches |
| Overall Length | 197.7 inches |
| Front Shoulder Room | 60.8 inches |
| Towing Capacity, Maximum | 3500 lbs. |
| Trunk or Cargo Capacity | 80.5 cu.ft. |
| Turning Diameter | 38.7 feet |
| Wheel Base | 114.2 inches |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 5900 lbs. |
Fuel Economy
| City | 20 mpg |
| Highway | 27 mpg |
| Combined | 23 mpg |
Mechanical
| Drivetrain | 2WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| 9 speed | Available |
| Recommended Fuel | Regular |
| Hill Start Assist | Available |
Performance
| Horsepower | 284 @ 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 259 @ 4800 rpm |
| Engine | V6, 3.5 Liter |
Technology
- Bluetooth Wireless Technology
- Cruise Control
- Hands Free Phone
- Remote Keyless Entry
- Audible Text Messaging
- Proximity Sensing Keyless Entry
- Push-Button Engine Start
- Smartphone Interface
- Touch Screen Monitor
- USB Port
- Voice Recognition System