Powered by a time-tested V6 engine, the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder offers strong performance and excellent towing capabilities. Families will appreciate the spacious interior and cargo space. Enthusiasts will find the “Rock Creek Edition” to have a fun throw-back appeal, kindling fond memories of the brutish Pathfinder of the 1980s and 1990s.
For 2020, the Nissan Pathfinder is available in five trim levels: S, SV, SL, Rock Creek Edition (SV and SL) and Platinum. The V6 is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. An all-wheel drive system is available for an additional $1,690.
Nissan refreshed the Pathfinder’s in 2017 and the SUV remains relatively unchanged for the 2020 model year. The SUV’s headlights and “V-Motion” grille align with rest of Nissan’s lineup. Base models come with 18-inch alloy wheels and Platinum trims receive 20-inch versions. Our Rock Creek Edition tester sported a nice set of 18-nch dark-finished aluminum-alloy wheels and all-season tires. The Rock Creek package also includes a black front grille, side mirrors, front and rear bumper accents, outside door handles, overfenders and roof rails. A unique lower front fascia, exterior badging and a tow hitch receiver with 7-pin wiring harness finish out the exterior enhancements. Inside, you get unique Rock Creek Edition interior with high-contrast stitching, Rock Creek Edition interior trim, and Rock Creek Edition badging.
The Pathfinder’s interior is roomy and comfortable. Larger families will appreciate the three-row seating which makes the SUV a decent alternative to buying a mini-van. Yes, a mid-size SUV will never be able to compete with the amount of cargo space provided a minivan, but the Pathfinder’s utility and low price point make it a viable option for other reasons. The second-row bench seat slides back and forth, allowing for cabin configuration based on the number of passengers.
The 2020 Pathfinder has 16 cubic feet of cargo space which expands to 47.8 cubic feet and 79.8 cubic feet when the second and third rows are folded.
Photo courtesy of Nissan
Nissan’s V6 produces 284 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque. The CVT transmission works well, but takes away from the overall driving experience. Fuel economy is strong, especially for the segment. Front-wheel drive models achieve an EPA-estimated 20/27 mpg city/highway. All-wheel drive models are rated at 19/26 mpg. Towing capacity is rated at 6,000 pounds.
Photo courtesy of Nissan
The Pathfinder is a comfortable vehicle on the road. The V6 provides excellent power for highway passing and towing. Stopping is easy and the suspension keeps the SUV in check on less than ideal roadway surfaces. While the 7 inches of clearance may limit the Pathfinder’s offroad capabilities, Nissan’s SUV is a great option for winter climates especially when equipped with all-wheel-drive.
Photo courtesy of Nissan
The standard 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system features a six-speaker sound system with a CD player. Base-model Pathfinders also arrive with six USB ports, Bluetooth, satellite radio, tri-zone automatic climate control and push-button start/stop. Available tech includes navigation, an upgraded 13-speaker Bose audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system.
Standard safety features include a rearview camera, forward collision warning, rear parking sensors and automatic emergency braking.
Pricing for the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder starts at $31,980. The SV Rock Creek Edition starts at $35,765.
