Flash Drive

2018 Nissan Pathfinder

December 22, 2017 - Featured, Flash Drive - Comments: 
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Model Tested: 2018 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum 4WD

Following last year’s major redesign, the 2018 Pathfinder continues to add new features and technologies such as the innovative Rear Door Alert system, which can help remind drivers of anything that may be forgotten in the rear seat – pets, valuables, dry cleaning, groceries and more.

Engine: 3.5-liter V-6, 284 horsepower, 259 lb-ft torque

Transmission: CVT automatic, four-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 19-mpg city/26-mpg highway/21-mpg combined

Base Price: $44,010

As Tested: $47,840

Performance:

Smooth V-6

Robust power

Intelligent 4×4 system

Selectable modes: 2WD, Auto, 4WD Lock

Hill descent and hill start assist features

The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder is definitely off-road capable, but most owners stay on paved highways.

Up to 6,000 lbs towing capacity

Reasonable fuel economy for its size—our best was 21.6-mpg highway

Blind spot monitor lights are conveniently mounted on “A” pillars

Comfort:

Great, supportive, comfy seats

Quality interior materials

Driver power lumbar support

Heated and ventilated front seats (3 variations)

Stretch-out front row legroom

The Pathfinder interior is a vehicle highlight. Space in the first two rooms is abundant, as is comfort.

Very good headroom

Medium thick, slightly contoured, heated steering wheel

Heated steering wheel is quite hot

Power tilt/telescopic steering column

Small sunroof over front row

Large moonroof over rear seats

Spacious second row seating

Heated second row seats (2 temperature)

Flat floor second row, so adults fit in middle

Good third row access

Utility:

Two-part center console bin

A hands-free power tailgate greatly eases cargo loading on the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder.

Large sunvisors with center slide-out extensions

Power tailgate, blind spot, anti-skid, tow mode controls too far under dash for easy reach while driving

Large, locking glovebox, but hard to access under curve of dashboard

Small front door bins with bottle notches

Big infotainment screen

Flat cargo floor

Extra storage under cargo deck

Hands-free power tailgate

WOW Factors:

Very nice, spacious interior

The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder is great for people, cargo, and towing.

Strong 6K towing capacity

Three adults fit in second row

Hands-free power tailgate

Great seats

Whines:

We still don’t like the frontend styling

Too small heated seat controls

Many controls hard to reach under curvature of dash

Wood trim looks fake

Bottom Line:

The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder is a spacious seven-passenger SUV with excellent towing and highway travel characteristics. Practicality and comfort are strong points for this all-weather SUV.