The 2017 Pathfinder bears no anniversary badges, and in fact is not readily discernible from the 2016 model. The result is increased output: 284 horsepower, up from 260, and 259 pound-feet of torque, up from 240. The Pathfinder also includes standard SiriusXM Travel Link with three years of complimentary service, featuring sports, movie listings, stock prices, gas prices and weather.
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Maximum towing capacity has increased by 1,000 pounds to a best-in-class 6,000 pounds (when properly equipped) due to the enhanced powertrain and body reinforcements added around the trailer hitch area.
Bunce said: “Building on Pathfinder’s already highly capable adventure credentials, the revised 3.5-liter V6 helps provide real world driving benefits – more responsive acceleration and re-acceleration when entering highways or passing”. Compared to the engine now in use, the 2017 Pathfinder’s motor is 32 percent new.
Inside, the Pathfinder stays largely the same, with just a few added trim options and a whole lot of new technology to make it more competitive.
The 2017 Pathfinder is the first major update since the fourth-generation SUV was introduced for the 2013 model year. But Nissan also packed the 2017 Pathfinder with more power, torque, and greater towing capacity. Combined with a revised combustion chamber design, pistons, and intake manifold, the updated V-6 features 50 percent new parts.
Meanwhile, the new standard-fit eight-inch touchscreen receives the latest NissanConnect infotainment software, while the Advanced Drive-Assist Display (ADAD) multi-info display in the instrument cluster features additional infotainment and driver assistance displays.
Like the current Pathfinder, the 2017 edition will be offered in four trims: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. Styling changes for the 2017 Pathfinder include a new front end treatment that is sleeker than the design it replaces.
Despite that bump in power, Nissan says fuel economy remains unchanged.
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While the previous version offered several active safety techologies like blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, the 2017 model adds automatic emergency braking and moving object detection for the 360-degree monitor. Some other mechanical components have been improved: front and rear shocks are stiffer, rebound springs combine with the front struts and rear rebound spring rates have jumped 25 percent.
