One update and one facelift are behind the fourth-gen Nissan Pathfinder. Ahead of the mid-size crossover SUV is a big redesign, and possible new series of vehicle. The 2020 Nissan Pathfinder changes details are not available yet. However, the carmaker will try to improve lacks of the current model and make the crossover SUV better and more capable for an off-road drive.
Part of the changes will be a new engine. It is still unknown which petrol unit will be base for the upcoming 2020 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid. But, its gas mileage numbers will jump. Its major rival, Toyota Highlander is the only mid-size SUV with such drivetrain. Interior of the Pathfinder will suffer the most changes, especially for the Platinum trim level. Also, we expect the reappearance of the Midnight Edition and the possible return of Rock Creek package.
Competition
2020 Nissan Pathfinder Release Date
The 2020 Nissan Pathfinder is going to be available worldwide. A version for the US will have the toughest task since the competition in North America is hardest. On the other hand, buyers in Ecuador, Colombia, and Mexico can’t wait to see the new edition of their favorite SUV. Outside the Americas, the Pathfinder is very popular in Australia and UAE.
All fans of the crossover SUV will have to wait for a year or so before the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder becomes official. The company will preview it earlier. The big car show is going to host the premiere of the mid-size vehicle, but we still don’t know is it going to be some of American’s or European car displays.
2020 Nissan Pathfinder 4×4 Specs
Under the hood of the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder will be the same 3.5-liter V-6 engine. We can find this powertrain in some other vehicles by the same carmakers. It is a durable and reliable unit with great capabilities, especially off the road. Double overhead cam block made of aluminum is delivering 284 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. At the same time, the SUV returns a pretty decent gas mileage of 23 mpg. Well, the off-road drive will make the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder thirstier.
Although the 4×4 model is more popular, the base crossover will use a front-wheel drive setup. This allows the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder to tow up to 6,000 pounds. Again, the vehicle will use a continuously variable automatic gearbox for power distribution.
Hybrid
The 2020 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid is going to raise the game to another level. Well, this is a solo run performed by Toyota Highlander, as the only mid-size three-row SUV with such drivetrain. But, in the next couple of years, we will see more and more rivals. The 2020 Pathfinder could be one of the first competitors. Nissan will add electric motors to the current setup. Another alternative is to pair batteries with some smaller unit, similar to one the Nissan Rogue Hybrid is using.
2020 Nissan Pathfinder Redesign Details
If rumors lie, spy shots don’t. The new 2020 Nissan Pathfinder is spied on the road and it is just a matter of time when company’s officials will come out with confirmation of its arrival and changes. However, we can’t be sure if the new SUV is going to start a new generation.
Heavy camouflage is all over the new Nissan Pathfinder 2020. It is certain that something special is hiding under the covers. But, all we could notice is slightly longer vehicle with more room under its body. With such setup, the new Pathfinder will challenge Toyota 4Runner, the SUV that also prepares significant changes.
Interior Changes
First, we couldn’t peek into the cabin of the new 2020 Nissan Pathfinder. Second, even if spy photos are available, it is early to talk about changes. Be sure the Japanese carmaker is bringing the best features for its vehicle. Apple CarPlay and Android auto services are going to be there for sure, while navigation remains an optional feature. More safety items and driver aid accessories, such as remote start are refreshing the SUV.
Best Model – 2020 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum
Definitely, the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum will come with the best offer in future. What makes it so different? First, there are larger 20-inch wheels on the crossover. Dual panoramic moonroof is standard here. Special towing parts will make this function easier. Inside we get more updates and premium equipment, mostly in infotainment segment. For example, that is the Bose sound system with 13 speakers. Climate control and heating seats are standard.
Special Editions – Midnight Edition and Rock Creek Edition
As you can expect from its name, the Midnight Edition of the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder will use a lot of black parts. Well, it is the best to pick metallic or white colors as the base, so darkened details on another part could make a better impression. Mudguards, grille, bumper accents, spoiler, and stop lamp are parts being blacked-out. The midnight Edition comes with 20-inch wheels.
A delay in production will see the Rock Creek Edition as part of 2020 Nissan Pathfinder lineup. So far, we know that special vehicle will bring unique mesh grille painted in black, 20-inch wheels with black finishes, and off-road tires.
2020 Nissan Pathfinder vs Toyota Highlander
The major competitor to all mid-size three-row crossover SUVs in the US is Toyota Highlander. Its base model is the best-selling unit. Also, it is one of the most popular vehicles in the company. Finally, it is the only three-row SUV with a hybrid engine. Improvements on the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder should challenge the new Highlander. However, we can’t expect from Toyota just to sit and watch. More updates are being prepared for their model as well. Read more about the upcoming 2020 Toyota Highlander HERE.
These are two very similar vehicles, in the matter of fact. They cost the same and both SUVs are using a 3.5-liter V-6 engine. These could improve their infotainment offer for base trims. The advantage of the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder will definitely be its spaciousness, while the Toyota Highlander offers better handling and driving impression.
How Much Is The New Nissan Pathfinder?
Even with the new generation, the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder is not going to come with a price too much higher from the current. It could add about a grand, but the starting cost is going to remain under $33,000. Platinum 4×4 model will go above $45,000 and maybe up to $50k.
