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Mid-cycle refresh brings sharper styling and a tech-forward interior
Nissan has officially unveiled the 2026 Pathfinder facelift, updating the midsize three-row SUV with a bolder exterior and a much more digital cabin — while keeping the familiar V6 powerplant under the hood. The refreshed Pathfinder arrives early in 2026, targeting buyers who want modern infotainment and refreshed styling without giving up the proven 3.5-liter V6 drivetrain.
Design: Goodbye to the chrome 'V', hello to a more aggressive face
The front end has been revised to fit Nissan's current design language. The previous chrome V-shaped grille surround has been removed in favor of a more aggressive bumper and gill-like detailing that give the Pathfinder a tougher, more purposeful stance. Nissan also adds a new Baltic Teal paint option for 2026 to broaden the color palette.
Top-tier trims receive black roof rails instead of silver, enhancing a sportier look. Wheel choices remain conventional for the segment: 18-inch wheels on base models and 20-inch alloys on flagship grade levels.
Interior: A clear move toward a digital cockpit
Perhaps the biggest change is inside. Nissan has upgraded every trim to a 12.3-inch infotainment display, replacing the prior 8- or 9-inch screens. SL and Platinum trims go further with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, replacing analog gauges and giving drivers a cleaner, more configurable readout.
Other notable interior enhancements:
- 15W wireless phone charger now includes active cooling and a magnetic pad for better phone stability
- Sharper surround-view and backup camera images for easier parking and towing
- Standard eight-passenger seating, with an optional seven-seat configuration (captain's chairs) available on higher trims
"The 2026 Pathfinder is less about reinventing the wheel and more about refining what buyers value: tech, comfort and proven capability," says one Nissan spokesperson.
Powertrain and drivetrain
Mechanically the Pathfinder stays faithful to its V6 heritage. The naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 remains standard across the lineup. Output for S, SV, SL and Platinum trims is rated at 288 horsepower and 351 N·m torque. The off-road-focused Rock Creek edition receives a slightly retuned version that produces 299 horsepower and 366 N·m torque.
All models use Nissan's 9-speed automatic transmission. Customers can choose front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive on most trims, but the Rock Creek package is offered exclusively with AWD.
Market positioning and pricing expectations
Nissan will formally present the 2026 Pathfinder at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Pricing has not been released yet, but industry observers expect a modest increase over the current base price of $36,400 to reflect the added technology and trim enhancements.
The Pathfinder enters 2026 in a competitive field of three-row midsize SUVs — from the Toyota Highlander to the Ford Explorer — but Nissan hopes the combination of an updated exterior, a revamped digital cockpit, and retained V6 performance will keep the model compelling for families and buyers seeking a capable, traditional gasoline SUV.
Highlights:
- New aggressive front fascia and Baltic Teal color
- 12.3-inch infotainment standard across all trims
- 12.3-inch digital cluster on SL and Platinum
- 3.5L naturally aspirated V6 remains, 9-speed automatic, FWD/AWD options
Overall, the 2026 Pathfinder facelift is a sensible evolution: conservative mechanically but bold in design and tech improvements, aimed at maintaining momentum after a strong sales year in 2025.
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