If you're looking for a roomy but smaller three-row SUV that can handle just about everything from carpools to family vacations, the mighty Nissan Pathfinder will check your boxes. Find out how in this 2026 vs 2025 Nissan Pathfinder comparison.
Key Takeaways
- For 2026, Nissan gave the Pathfinder a style refresh.
- Maintenance Care became standard across all models in 2025
- Depending on the trim, the Pathfinder can tow between 3,500 and 6,000 pounds.
Upgrades for the 2026 vs. 2025 Pathfinder Model Years
Nissan gave its three-row crossover a fresh look for 2026, switching up the grille, both bumpers, the wheels, and all the exterior lights. Inside, the cabin feels a bit more luxe with upgrades like a big 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a faster wireless charging pad.
The updates for the 2025 Pathfinder were a lot more subtle. Back then, the big news was Nissan making their Maintenance Care program standard, which gave owners three free oil changes during the first two years or 24,000 miles. The automaker also added a power liftgate to the SV and Rock Creek trims, a feature that used to be locked away on the more expensive SL and Platinum models.
Model Year Updates
| 2026 Nissan Pathfinder |
2025 Nissan Pathfinder |
| Exterior styling updates including grille, bumpers, wheels, and lighting |
Maintenance Care program made standard with three free oil changes |
| 12.3-inch infotainment screen added |
Power liftgate added to SV and Rock Creek trims |
| Faster wireless charging pad |
Trims carry over with no other changes for 2025 |
Powertrains, Mileage, and Towing in the Pathfinder
Both model years rely on Nissan's tried-and-true 3.5-liter V6, which puts out 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque--though the Rock Creek trim gets a little extra muscle at 295 horses. That engine is paired with a smooth nine-speed automatic transmission, which replaced the old CVT a few years back. Front-wheel drive is the standard setup, but you can opt for Intelligent All-Wheel Drive on any trim, giving you seven different terrain modes to handle stuff like mud, sand, or snow.
When it comes to hauling, the S, SV, and SL trims can tow up to 3,500 pounds right out of the gate. However, if you step up to the Rock Creek or Platinum, that capacity jumps to 6,000 pounds. You can also get that same 6,000-pound rating on the SV and SL models if you make sure they're equipped with the available Premium package.
2026 vs. 2025 Pathfinder Fuel Efficiency
The most fuel-efficient version of the Pathfinder is the all-wheel-drive model. It gets about 21 mpg in the city, 27 on the highway, and 23 combined. The front-wheel-drive version hits most of the same numbers but drops to 20 mpg in the city.
For 2025, S, SV, and SL trims with all-wheel drive stay at that 21/27/23 mpg mark. The Platinum trim is rated slightly lower at 20 city and 25 highway, while the rugged Rock Creek comes in at 20 city and 23 highway. If you stick with front-wheel drive on any trim, you can expect 20 mpg in the city and 27 on the highway.
Which Pathfinder Model Year Is the Right Pick?
No matter the model year, both of these SUVs are fantastic options for your family, your business, and all of your adventures. Stop by the showroom to compare them side-by-side and take them both for a test drive to see which one feels more like you!