Nissan Pathfinder Receives Updates and Higher Pricing for 2026 Model Year

What if a mid-size three-row SUV could maintain its rugged capability while incorporating subtle styling refinements and enhanced interior technology in a competitive segment? Nissan Motor Company has refreshed the Pathfinder for the 2026 model year with revised exterior design elements and increased base pricing across all trims. The updates include a new front grille design featuring a wider V-motion signature and redesigned LED headlights. Lower fascia incorporates larger air intakes for improved engine cooling efficiency.

Powertrain remains unchanged with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 284 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque in standard configurations. All-wheel-drive variants receive a 295-horsepower tune through revised engine mapping. The nine-speed automatic transmission continues to deliver power to front or all wheels via an selectable drive mode system. Towing capacity holds at 6000 pounds when properly equipped with the factory hitch package.

Interior enhancements feature a larger 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster standard on higher trims replacing the previous 7.0-inch unit. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration expands across the lineup. SV trim and above gain a 10.8-inch head-up display projecting speed and navigation data onto the windshield. ProPILOT Assist driver assistance suite includes adaptive cruise control with lane centering functionality on select models.

Seating configuration accommodates up to eight passengers with second-row bench seat or seven with captain’s chairs. Cargo volume measures 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row expanding to 45.0 cubic feet with third row folded and 80.5 cubic feet maximum. EZ Flex one-touch second-row release mechanism facilitates third-row access without removing child safety seats.

Pricing commences at $38,040 for the base S front-wheel-drive model representing a $1690 increase over the prior year. SV trim starts at $40,860 while SL reaches $45,580 and Platinum tops at $50,030. All-wheel-drive option adds $2000 across variants. Rock Creek off-road oriented edition carries over with 18-inch beadlock-style wheels and all-terrain tires priced from $44,860.

Safety equipment includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection standard on all models. Blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert feature on SV and higher specifications. Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite encompasses lane departure warning and high-beam assist across the range.

The refreshed Pathfinder competes against vehicles including the Honda Pilot, Toyota Grand Highlander, and Kia Telluride in the mid-size three-row segment. United States production continues at the Smyrna, Tennessee assembly plant ensuring eligibility for domestic manufacturing considerations. Dealer deliveries commence in early 2026 following the model’s reveal.

This update positions the Pathfinder with contemporary styling cues while preserving core mechanical components proven in prior iterations. Fuel economy ratings remain at 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for front-wheel-drive models under EPA testing protocols. The vehicle’s unibody construction contributes to refined on-road dynamics compared to body-on-frame competitors.

Nissan maintains the Pathfinder’s family-oriented focus through flexible interior packaging and comprehensive connectivity features. Over-the-air update capability supports future software enhancements for infotainment and assistance systems. Such incremental improvements demonstrate measured evolution in a segment experiencing rapid electrification elsewhere.