2025 Nissan Pathfinder

Nissan's three-row Pathfinder has never quite found the success of class leaders like the Toyota Highlander, Kia Telluride or Honda Pilot, but this latest generation still rates as one of its best. Last redesigned in 2022 with sharper, squarer styling, slimmer lights and big badging, the Pathfinder gained more character as its soft crossover curves gave way to a more muscular truck look. And the muscle wasn't only cosmetic. The Pathfinder can tow up to 6,000 pounds, about 1,000 pounds more than most of its contemporaries. It also offers a roomy, adult-friendly third row, not something that all of its rivals can claim. 

Edmunds spotlight: Changes for the 2025 Pathfinder?

The Pathfinder carried over last year with only minor changes (an extended trial subscription to remote services such as smartphone-enabled remote start and remote lock/unlock). And given other substantive changes with the 2022 redesign — upgraded interior, improved powertrain and fuel economy, better ride quality, changes that lifted it nearly a full point in our ratings from its predecessor — we don't expect big changes for the 2025 model. An infotainment upgrade could widen the Pathfinder's appeal, though. Many rivals offer standard or optional 10- and 12-inch touchscreens, while the Nissan soldiers on with 8- and 9-inch displays, with graphics and interface that now feel several years old. Nissan's smaller Rogue SUV recently got an optional 12.3-inch touchscreen and Google-based interface, so the Pathfinder seems a likely candidate for similar treatment. We could also see the Pathfinder offering a more prominent slatted chrome grille like the current Rogue. 

Competitors to consider

Buyers have nearly a dozen choices for three-row midsize SUVs, but the Pathfinder is one of the top values among them. It starts for less than most competitors but offers more towing capacity and third-row room (although at the expense of overall cargo capacity). The current Ford Explorer is priced about the same at the base trim level, although it's due for changes and a likely price hike in 2025. The Kia Telluride is still our top pick in the class for its plush ride and generous standard features. The Honda Pilot, Mazda CX-90 and Volkswagen Atlas all cost more but offer more refined cabins and tech. 

If the 2025 Pathfinder arrives with a more modern tech interface, it could raise its competitive stature in a crowded class of midsize SUVs.