2026 Nissan Pathfinder Adds Tech and Keeps the V6
Nissan's venerable SUV sees a subtle facelift with more standard tech; no change under the hood is a (welcome) surprise.
Nissan on Thursday revealed the 2026 Pathfinder. As mid-cycle refreshes go this is a subtle one, with light visual tweaks accompanying an expected bump in standard technology.
The biggest surprise? The Pathfinder is keeping its V6. The VQ35 is staying put under that bluff hood, despite the related QX60 moving to the family turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. Performance figures are unchanged: most models produce 284 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque, while the rugged Rock Creek bumps both numbers up by 11. The nine-speed automatic transmission is retained as well; the Rock Creek and Platinum include a standard transmission oil cooler for towing duty, which is optional on the SV and SL trims. Speaking of, upgrading unlocks up to 6,000 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped; other models are rated to 3,500 pounds.
Outside, the '26 model stands out with a new grille featuring a thin light strip aligning with the Nissan badge. A trio of trapezoidal LEDs sit on either side of the grille, giving the Pathfinder a night-time signature that's in keeping with the latest models from the brand. There are new 20-inch wheels for the Platinum trim, while it and the SL switch their standard roof rails from silver to black. The new color pictured here is Baltic Teal; think of it as a desaturated take on the latest Leaf's hero color.
Inside, all Pathfinders will now feature a 12.3-inch central touchscreen, even the basic S trim. The mid-level SL and higher trims also benefit from a digital instrument cluster measuring that same size. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the board. Rock Creek, SL, and Platinum trims benefit from the upgraded camera system which debuted in the Armada last year, including the wide-angle front view to see "around" parked cars, as well as the Invisible Hood View.
2026 Nissan Pathfinder: All the Details
The Rock Creek trim continues to come with all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, a unique suspension tune with additional ride height, and different front and rear fascias. A new Rock Creek Premium package adds a panoramic moonroof, wireless charger—which has been given more power for 2026—a heated steering wheel, and a 12-volt power outlet in the cargo hold.
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder will debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show next week, November 21–30. Pricing information—which we expect to creep ever so slightly upward from its current $37,895 ($49,228 CAD, both including destination) starting price—should arrive before the SUVs hit dealers early 2026. Is this enough to fend off the rest of the class, including the recently updated (and hybridized) Hyundai Palisade or the 2027 Kia Telluride, which will also be debuting in LA? Let us know in the comments.
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Kyle began his automotive obsession before he even started school, courtesy of a remote control Porsche and various LEGO sets. He later studied advertising and graphic design at Humber College, which led him to writing about cars (both real and digital). He is now a proud member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), where he was the Journalist of the Year runner-up for 2021.
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