Platinum 4dr 4x4
2023 Nissan Pathfinder

Pros: High-quality and functional interior; excellent driver assistance tech; above-average towing capacity Cons: Worse to drive than rivals with odd steering response; less third-row space The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder may possess one of the oldest SUV nameplates, but the actual vehicle itself has oscillated wildly over the years between body-on-frame and unibody (crossover) architecture. It’s grown in size and seat number. It’s been a vehicle actually capable of finding paths and one that’s better suited to using very-paved paths already found. With the latest generation introduced last year, the Pathfinder maintains its architecture and seat count from one generation to the next for the first time. It’s still a seven-passenger crossover of the well-paved path variety, but at least the addition of the Rock Creek Edition for 2023 lets the Pathfinder go back to its roots a little bit. Last year’s redesign had already started in that direction stylistically thanks to its bolder, more chiseled appearance. Yet ultimately, the Pathfinder is a family hauler, and for that purpose, it impresses with a modern interior that boasts above-average materials quality and easy-to-use controls. Space is obviously plentiful as a three-row crossover, though it’s merely average for the segment. The driving experience also does nothing to stand out from the pack, but at least it doesn’t repel as the previous generation did. In total, the 2023 Pathfinder is more aligned in spirit to its old-school predecessors, while being even more family-friendly than its homely immediate predecessor. The new Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition also adds some character and a modicum of rugged capability that should certainly be welcome. The Pathfinder even offers more towing capacity than most three-row crossovers. We’d still choose a Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Highlander Hybrid or Jeep Grand Cherokee L first, but among the second tier of alternatives, the Pathfinder is right up there.   Interior & Technology   |   Passenger & Cargo Space   |   Performance & Fuel Economy What it's like to drive   |   Pricing & Trim Levels   |   Crash Ratings & Safety Features What's new for 2023? The Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition returns for 2023 and we review it here. Pictured above, it’s the most rugged Pathfinder trim level with a modest, 0.6-inch ground clearance lift to 7.7 inches, an off-road-tuned suspension, beadlock-looking 18-inch wheels, Toyo Open Country all-terrain tires, lots of matte black body cladding, and a platform-style roof rack. Oh, and lots and lots of Rock Creek badges. Elsewhere in the lineup, the SL gains a standard wireless charging pad, while the SL and Platinum gain a standard 10-way power passenger seat. The Platinum is now offered with a Platinum Captain’s Chairs package that includes a removable second-row console between the captain’s chairs. What are the Pathfinder interior and in-car technology like? This is arguably the Pathfinder’s best attribute. Although the range-topping Platinum trim level you see up there is its best foot forward, complete with handsome two-tone leather/pleather all over the place, even lower trim levels benefit from the same handsome design, thoughtful storage …
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