By Auto Reviewman
The immensely popular 2018 seven-passenger Nissan Pathfinder SUV has undergone a number of changes since its introduction, consistently becoming more luxurious, and feature laden, more powerful in size with each generation. . The 2018 Pathfinder continues with a refashioned exterior, revised suspension, new safety and technology systems. The Pathfinder is powered by a new 3.5-litre V6 with direct injection, with a twenty percent horsepower increase to 284 horsepower. The Pathfinders transmission is an updated Xtronic CVT (Continuously variable transmission.) unit.
Inside the Pathfinder, the interior is the same roomy, well designed cabin that looks and feels very upmarket. There is a new brighter, sharper eight-inch colour touch screen with swipe, pinch and zoom controls and more a more intuitive GUI. A motion activated tailgate is also now available, and access to the third row seating remains excellent. The Pathfinder lineup starts at $32,998 for the S version. There are six models in the Pathfinder lineup, with corresponding increases in equipment. We tested a top of the line Platinum model with such equipment as: 20″ aluminum-alloy wheels, available Dual 8″ headrest DVD family entertainment system, Climate-controlled front seats, premium leather seats and the full range of luxury and convenience equipment.
On the road, the Pathfinder’s increase in horsepower is well felt with more off the line acceleration and passing power when fully laden Overall, the new Pathfinder offers a firmer, more stable ride with improved steering. We had a blast of West Coast snow during our test period and so had ample opportunity to try out the on-demand 4×4 system which also has an auto mode splits torque between the front and rear wheels as needed. Traction proved to be excellent. Haul a trailer or boat? There is good news. The Pathfinder is now rated to haul an impressive 6,000 pounds – when properly equipped. The highest tow rating in this sector. Fuel economy for the Pathfinder is rated at 11.6/8.5 City/Hwy L/100 km. Also new is some advanced driver assistance technology that Nissan does so well. There is: forward emergency braking, “intelligent” cruise control and an Around View monitor with moving object detection. Not a lot to complain about with the Pathfinder. It does its job as a supremely comfortable, high quality family SUV extremely well. The new improvements only make the Pathfinder even better. Highly recommended.
2018 Nissan Pathfinder. Priced from: $32,998
Pathfinder Platinum version as tested: Priced from $48,998, plus options fees, PDI and taxes.
