Five years after its last update, Nissan has just unveiled the new 2026 Pathfinder SUV as it prepares for its official debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
While the design has not drastically changed compared to the previous model, the new Pathfinder brings it in line with Nissan’s current models, such as the newly launched 2026 Sentra.
At the front, the grille ditches the previous generation’s U-shaped chrome trim and now extends down beneath the inner edges of the headlights, accompanied by three rectangular chrome pieces arranged in a cascading pattern just below.
The rear also remains largely unchanged, but now all external badges have a satin finish.
Among the aesthetic updates, Nissan has added the color Baltic Teal to the palette and replaced the silver roof rails with black ones on the SL and Platinum trims. The Platinum trim also gets a new 20-inch wheel design.
Inside, the overall layout remains familiar, but the multimedia center has grown larger: it’s now a 12.3-inch touchscreen, replacing the previous 8-inch one.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wireless connectivity are now standard, and the SL and Platinum trims also feature a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel.
With the larger screen, there was no room left for the physical audio buttons that were previously located nearby. However, Nissan didn’t hide these controls inside the interface: it redesigned the space between the lower air vents, reduced the size of the hazard button, and fit a volume button and tuning controls there.
The chrome strip below now also features the word “Pathfinder” embossed. The more luxurious model adopts new seat upholstery patterns and wood-tone finishes.
Nissan has upgraded the wireless charger in the Pathfinder, increasing its maximum power from 5 to 15 watts, and added a new cooling fan, ensuring fast charging without overheating your phone. The wireless charger is standard on the SL and Premium trims, and optional on the SV and Rock Creek trims.
The camera system with a bird’s-eye view, available on the Rock Creek, SL, and Platinum trims, now adds two new camera angles: a 180-degree front camera and a new “invisible hood view” that allows drivers to look “through” the hood to better position the front wheels.
Under the hood, the same 3.5-liter V-6 engine continues to deliver 284 horsepower and 351 Nm of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is available across the lineup and is standard on the Rock Creek trim, which also gains an additional 11 horsepower and 15 Nm of torque.
Speaking of the Rock Creek trim, it will get a new Premium package for 2026, which includes a panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charging, a heated steering wheel, and a 12-volt outlet in the cargo area.
It’s worth noting that Nissan has yet to release photos of the Rock Creek trim, so we don’t yet know if the all-terrain version of the Pathfinder will feature any design changes.
The new Pathfinder will hit dealerships in early 2026. Prices have not yet been released, but the expectation is that they will rise compared to the 2025 model, which started at $38,040 for the S trim, $45,860 for the Rock Creek trim, and $51,010 for the top-of-the-line Platinum trim.
Photos: Nissan. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
