Overview
The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder is perfect for larger families or groups. It has a spacious cabin that can fit up to eight people and delivers a smooth, quiet ride whether you're on a long road trip or just commuting to work.
The V-6 engine is one of the best in its class and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. You have the option of front-wheel or all-wheel drive; though, if you plan on doing any offroading, I would recommend all-wheel drive as it gives the Pathfinder great capabilities-- better than a Jeep or Bronco. Not only that, but The Pathfinder can tow up to 6000 pounds! With numbers like that, it's no wonder this car outdoes its rivals such as the Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, and Toyota Highlander.
What's New for 2023?
For 2023, Nissan is adding a Rock Creek model to the Pathfinder lineup. It has a lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, revised front grille and lower bumper, and standard all-wheel drive. The V-6 gets 295 horsepower in the Rock Creek model. The Rock Creek's interior differs from the regular Pathfinder with special cloth and vinyl upholstery, orange stitching, and Rock Creek badges on the seats and center console.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Replacing the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) from the previous generation model, is a new nine-speed automatic in most models. The V-6 makes 284 horsepower but295 in the Rock Creek trim.
If you're worried about traction, all trims come with the option of upgrading to all-wheel drive. This also comes with seven selectable modes designed for different driving conditions and surfaces, like Sand and Mud/Rut mode for off-roading. In tests, our front-wheel Pathfinder SL was able to go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds; while the model with all-wheel drive did it slightly faster at 6.6 seconds.
The Pathfinder's all-wheel drive makes it quicker than the Kia Telluride and the Toyota Highlander. Although its handling is not memorable or exciting, its ride is smooth, and Nissan has included sound-deadening elements in the cabin to make it extra quiet when cruising.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The most efficient Pathfinder according to the EPA is the one with optional all-wheel drive; it earned ratings of 21 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. The front-wheel-drive model earned the same city and combined ratings but only 26 mpg highway. On our 75-mph highway fuel economy test, our all-wheel=drive test vehicle returned 28 mpg--beating its EPA rating.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Pathfinder has an interior design that is both modern and trucklike. The front seats are comfortable, and the controls are well-placed. Three rows of seating can accommodate up to eight riders, but buyers have the option to swap the standard second-row bench seat for captain's chairs—a feature that many families desire in a crossover—that reduce capacity to seven.
Nissan has included several storage cubbies in the cabin, including a large bin below the center console. Higher trim levels come with features such as semi-aniline leather upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
Are Nissan Pathfinders any good?
The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder provides a roomy, upscale and family-friendly interior, balanced driving dynamics, good fuel economy and a long list of standard features. Its infotainment system is a bit dated, but otherwise, the Pathfinder is an attractive overall package.
What year Nissan Pathfinders have transmission problems?
The class action lawsuit alleges that Nissan sold vehicles with defective transmissions and seeks to compensate all owners and lessees of 2013 and 2014 Nissan Pathfinders throughout the United States. The lawsuit is also demanding that Nissan recall the SUVs.
Is the Pathfinder better than the pilot?
The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder is better than ever, with a more thoughtful cabin design and improved technology. But the seasoned 2022 Honda Pilot maintains its standing as the more well-rounded three-row SUV.
Do Pathfinders last a long time?
You can expect a Nissan Pathfinder to last about 300,000 miles or more with proper care and regular routine maintenance. If you average 15k miles annually, you should be able to get about 20 years of head-ache free performance from a well-maintained Pathfinder.