By Ostile Kadiege

Nissan has unveiled theiu latest iteration of the 35 year old nameplate – Pathfinder. For the new Pathfinder, Nissan promises customers a comfortable SUV with the latest advanced connectivity, safety features and rugged capability for their daily adventures.

Exterior design

The exterior design of the new Pathfinder looks modern, minimalist and rugged thanks to the brands signature three-slot V-Motion grille flanked by eyebrow-like DRLs and standard LED headlights. The Pathfinder’s ruggedness is accentuated by the front and rear bumpers skid plates and contrasting cladding around the wheel arches.

Slim wide-aspect LED taillights and large Pathfinder lettering on the “boxed out” tailgate dominates much of the rear-end. Atop the Pathfinder are roof rails and the optional two-tone exterior color scheme. There are a total of 14 colours/colour combinations like striking Obsidian Green Pearl.

Interior design and technology

The interior of the new Pathfinder looks modern, luxurious and spacious. The driver is greeted by an optional 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a configurable 10.8-inch head up display. The former is flanked by a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay. There’s also WiFi hot spot and wireless smartphone charging pad. Audiophiles can opt for the Bose Premium Audio with 13 speakers for an excellent sound experience.

Woven cloth, leather or premium quilted semi-aniline leather-appointed seats are offered in a range of new colors and materials. The Pathfinder can seat up to 8 people and there’s an option available to turn the second row seats into captains chairs.

Driver assistance systems and safety features

The SV and SL grades of the Pathfinder comes with Nissan’s innovative ProPILOT Assist, which reduces the hassle of stop-and-go highway driving by steering assist and Intelligent Cruise Control to help control acceleration, braking and steering in both heavy traffic and on the open highway.

The Pathfinder comes with 10 airbags and Nissan’s Safety Shield 360, which includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert to name a few.

Performance

All Pathfinders will be powered by a direct injection 3.5 litre V6 engine developing 212 kW (284 hp) and 351 Nm (259 lb-ft). Nissan has ditched the CVT in favour of a new 9-speed automatic transmission.

Aptional intelligent 4WD system with a 7-position Drive and Terrain Mode Selector (Standard, Sport, Eco, Snow, Sand, Mud/Rut and Tow) is on offer as an option.

Local availability and pricing

Nissan South Africa is yet to announce local pricing and availability.