The first generation of the Pathfinder as a crossover is still in production and it looks outdated by so many standards of the modern automotive industry. The current model has been around since 2012. At that time, the famous nameplate switched to a unibody platform, following the trends of the automotive industry. However, it kept many of its SUVish design characteristics, so we can all agree it looks a little bit dull compared to rivals. Therefore, a complete overhaul seems more than welcome. According to the latest reports, that could happen already in the next year, as the 2021 Nissan Pathfinder redesign.
Naturally, we count on improvements in many aspects, starting from better ride quality, improved efficiency, new aesthetics and much more. Still, keep in mind that we are still waiting for the official confirmation and that everything you’re going to read in the following paragraphs is based on rumors. We presume that the 2021 Nissan Pathfinder could hit the market already in the second half of next year.
2021 Nissan Pathfinder Redesign
As Nissan lovers, we have big expectations from the 2021 Nissan Pathfinder redesign. Simply, the competition among three-row crossovers is extremely tough. So, the new model would have to improve in many ways if the company wants to have a competitive player in the segment. First of all, we count on better ride quality. The current model can sometimes be really firm and doesn’t like pawn roads too much.
Also, there is way too much body roll in corners, like we are talking about an old BoF Pathfinder from a decade ago. All this indicates we could see a new platform, which would also make this crossover lighter and more efficient. Naturally, the upcoming redesign will bring new aesthetics, new interior design and many more things.
Exterior Design
Of course, we count on a completely new exterior design for this occasion. First of all, we count some changes in terms of dimensions. The current model measures around 114 inches in wheelbase, but the new one could be a couple of inches longer, as it will definitely have to offer more space on the inside. In terms of overall dimensions, we could see slight enlargements as well.
When it comes to styling, we expect a lot of improvements. The current model definitely lacks modern feel, so we expect the new Nissan Pathfinder 2021 will be adapted to the brand’s latest design language. We count on the implementation of the brand’s latest iteration of the famous V-Motion grille. Also, the overall shape should be sleeker and more crossover-like, as the current one looks quite boxy and SUV-ish.
Interior
Another aspect we expect a lot of improvement is the interior design. The current model definitely looks outdated. The dashboard is dull, especially from the passenger’s side, where it looks completely blend. Also, the center stack belongs to another era of the automotive industry and looks quite similar to full-size SUVs like Armada or QX80. Therefore, we count on significant improvements in the new model. The 2021 Nissan Pathfinder should look far more car-like, in a manner of modern crossovers.
Also, we count that a longer wheelbase will provide more space on the inside. The current model isn’t particularly spacious, especially in the second and third rows. While the third row is typically tight for the segment, the second one doesn’t feature the most natural seating position. When it comes to cargo are, the current model seems quite decent for the class, but we expect to see slight improvements.
Of course, big improvements are also expected in terms of technologies. We count on a new infotainment system, with new software, smartphone integrations and better graphics, as well as all other kinds of connectivity features.
2021 Nissan Pathfinder Engines
In this aspect, it is hard to say anything more about the powertrain. The current model is already pretty good in this aspect, as it comes with a familiar 3.5-liter V6 engine, which is good for about 284 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. It comes in pair with a CVT gearbox and features pretty 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, which are pretty good ratings for the class. Another great thing about this crossover is max towing capacity that goes around 6.000 pounds, which are pretty good ratings for the class.
Considering that the current engine is still pretty strong in all fields, it ill probably carry on in the new model. Still, we won’t exclude the possibility to see another engine option in the offer.
2021 Nissan Pathfinder Release Date and Price
We expect to see the 2021 Nissan Pathfinder redesign sometime in the next year, most likely in the second half of the year. We are still waiting for the official confirmation. When it comes to the price, base models should go around 32.000 dollars.