Nissan Pathfinder is a legendary crossover that has been combining the comfort of a family car and the capabilities of a real SUV for more than 30 years. But even the most devoted fans of the model are often faced with the question: How to make the most of your luggage space? After all, not only the convenience of everyday trips, but also the possibility of comfortable travel with family or friends depends on its volume.
In this article we will look at actual trunk dimensions for all generations Pathfinder (from R50 to R53), compare them with competitors, tell you about hidden compartments and factory secrets, and also share proven life hacks for organizing space. You will learn how to fold the seats correctly, what accessories are worth buying, and what to do if the standard volume is not enough. Let's start with the most important things - numbers and facts.
Nissan Pathfinder trunk volume by generation: comparison table
The first thing potential buyers are interested in is how many things will fit in the trunk? The answer depends on the generation of the car. For example, Pathfinder R51 (2005–2012) was famous for its spacious interior, but its successor R52 (2013–2020) lost in volume due to platform changes. Below is current data for all generations, including rare modifications.
| Generation | Years of manufacture | Trunk volume (l) with folded seats |
Trunk volume (l) in standard configuration |
Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R50 | 1996–2004 | 2 200 | 450 | Body on a frame base, high ceiling, but narrow door opening |
| R51 | 2005–2012 | 2 000 | 500 | The most spacious Pathfinder with the possibility of transformation into a 7-seater version |
| R52 | 2013–2020 | 1 780 | 453 | Transition to a unified platform with Nissan Murano, loss of volume due to sloping back |
| R53 | 2021–present | 1 800 | 470 | Return to frame construction, improved ergonomics but lower ceiling height |
⚠️ Attention: The data in the table is given for standard configurations. In versions with third row of seats (For example, Pathfinder 7-seater) trunk volume is reduced to 150–200 l with the seats fully raised. It is also worth considering that actual capacity depends on the shape of the load - for example, in R51 Easily fits a European pallet (800×1200 mm), and in R52 - only with the seats folded down.
Interesting fact: in Pathfinder R50 the trunk was on 20% deeperthan in modern models, due to the absence of a spare wheel under the floor (it was mounted on the door). In new generations, the manufacturer sacrificed depth for the sake of safety and comfort.
How to fold the seats in a Nissan Pathfinder: step-by-step instructions
Many owners Pathfinder facing a problem: the seats don't fold completely or there are gaps that interfere with loading long cargo. The reason often lies in the wrong sequence of actions. Let's look at the process using an example R52 (2013–2020), since it is the most common in the secondary market.
✅ The order of folding the second row:
- Fold the headrests forward (press the button at the base).
- Pull the lever on the back of the seat (located on the side, under the plastic cover).
- Tilt the backrest forward all the way - it should lie on the seat cushion.
- To fold completely, pull the strap under the cushion and lock the seat into the niche.
✅ The order of folding the third row (if any):
- 🔧 First, make sure the headrests are removed (they are stored in a niche under the trunk floor).
- 🔧 Pull the lever on the back of the seat and fold it forward.
- 🔧 Lift the seat cushion up - it will lock in a vertical position.
- 🔧 To return to the starting position, press the red button under the backrest.
⚠️ Attention: in Pathfinder R53 (2021+) the folding mechanism has changed - now the backrests of the second row are locked automatically when tilted. However, if you hear a clicking sound but the seat does not lie flat, don't make any effort — check if the seat belt or mat is in the way.
Remove all objects from the seat cushion|Remove the headrests (if they are removable)|Make sure the seat belts are not twisted|Check for any foreign objects in the recess under the floor-->
Tip: if after folding there is still a gap between the backrests of the second and third row, use universal trunk organizer (for example, from Thule or Kamei). It will not only close the cracks, but also prevent the load from sliding.
Comparison of Pathfinder trunk with competitors: which is more spacious?
When choosing a crossover, it is important to understand how Nissan Pathfinder compares favorably with its direct competitors. We compared it with Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, Kia Sorento And Hyundai Santa Fe — models that buyers most often consider. The results may be surprising!
📊 Leader in volume: Ford Explorer (up to 2,487 l with seats folded) overtakes Pathfinder R52 almost on 40%. However, Nissan there is an advantage - smoother floor no protrusions, making loading easy.
📊 The most compact: Kia Sorento (maximum 1,662 l) loses even Pathfinder R53, but benefits in the height of the luggage compartment - this is a plus for transporting tall objects (for example, bicycles).
📊 Optimal balance: Toyota Highlander (1,910 l) is almost identical Pathfinder R51, but has a narrower door opening, which makes loading bulky items more difficult.
| Model | Volume (l) standard/max. |
Opening width (cm) | Loading height (cm) | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Pathfinder R52 | 453 / 1 780 | 105 | 78 | Flat floor, low threshold |
| Toyota Highlander | 509 / 1 910 | 98 | 80 | More compartments for small items |
| Ford Explorer | 515 / 2 487 | 110 | 82 | Maximum volume, but high threshold |
🔍 Conclusion: if you need maximum volume - look to the side Ford Explorer. If important convenient loading — Pathfinder R51/R52 unrivaled thanks to its low threshold and wide opening. And for city trips with occasional trips to nature, it’s enough Kia Sorento.
- Volume
- Ease of loading
- Availability of hidden compartments
- Ceiling height
- Other
Hidden Compartments and Factory Secrets of the Pathfinder Trunk
Few people know, but Nissan Pathfinder There is hidden compartments and factory solutions, which simplify the transportation of goods. For example, under the trunk floor in R51 And R52 hidden waterproof container for dirty things or tools. And in R53 appeared pull-out shelf for small items.
🔎 Where to look for hidden compartments:
- 🔧 Under floor: in R51 the jack and wheel wrench are stored there, but if you remove them, you get a compartment for
30 lfor documents or valuables. - 🔧 Behind the trim: There is a storage niche on the right side of the trunk (passenger side)
12V socketsor trailer cable. - 🔧 In the seat backs: in R52 A pocket for a tablet or laptop is hidden under the armrest of the second row.
- 🔧 In the ceiling: some configurations have hooks for bags (load capacity up to
5 kg).
⚠️ Attention: in Pathfinder R50 there is one under the rear bumper hatch for towing hook, which is often confused with a hidden compartment. Do not store valuables there - it is not airtight!
💡 Lifehack: if you need to transport long cargo (for example, skis or boards), R51 And R52 can be removed plastic ceiling lining between the trunk and the interior. This will give additional 10–15 cm in length. The main thing is not to forget to return it to its place, otherwise there will be a draft.
How to access the hidden compartment in R53?
B Pathfinder R53 Under the trunk floor on the right there is a hatch with a latch. If you press it firmly, the storage compartment will open A4 size documents or a small laptop. This compartment hermetically sealed and is waterproof, making it ideal for transporting important papers.
Pathfinder Rack Accessories: What's Really Needed?
The standard configuration of the trunk is often not enough for comfortable use. Luckily, the market offers dozens of accessories, from cases to organizers. We have selected only proven solutionsthat really make life easier for owners Pathfinder.
🛒 Top 5 (must-have) for the trunk:
- 🚗 Rubber mat WeatherTech: Exactly follows the shape of the trunk, protects against dirt and moisture. For R52 fit model
WT400271. - 🚗 Organizer grid CargoNet: Attached to hooks on the walls of the trunk, prevents the load from sliding. Withstands up to
50 kg. - 🚗 Seat cover Covercraft: Protects against scratches when folding. For Pathfinder R51 suitable option
C25042. - 🚗 Drawer Dee Zee: installed under the floor, provides additional
40 lspace. Compatible with R52/R53. - 🚗 Set of hooks Thule: allows you to secure bicycles or skis without the risk of damaging the casing.
⚠️ Attention: When choosing a trunk cover, pay attention to year of manufacture car. For example, covers for Pathfinder 2015 And 2019 may not fit due to changes in the shape of the bumper after restyling.
💰 Budget alternatives: if branded accessories are too expensive, pay attention to:
- Rugs 3D Maxpider (cheaper WeatherTech by 30%, but almost as good in quality).
- Organizers Husky Liners (cost 2 times cheaper CargoNet, but can only withstand 30 kg).
- Cases OxGord (universal, suitable for most crossovers).
Be sure to measure your trunk before purchasing accessories! Even in one generation Pathfinder There may be differences depending on the configuration. For example, in versions with panoramic roof trunk height at 3–5 cm less.
How to increase trunk volume: 5 non-obvious ways
If the standard volume Pathfinder not enough, don’t rush to change the car. There are at least 5 ways increase space without sacrificing comfort:
🔧 1. Use a roof rack
Even the most compact box (for example, Thule Motion XT on 320 l) increases the total volume by 20%. For Pathfinder R52 suitable model Thule 753 — it does not interfere with opening the trunk door.
🔧 2. Remove the spare tire
B R51 And R52 "spare" takes up to 100 l space. If you have tire repair kit (For example, RunFlat or Slime), you can free up this space for cargo. The main thing is to remember to check the tire pressure!
🔧 3. Install the towbar and trailer
Standard trailer for Pathfinder (For example, Brenderup 1310) adds 1,200 l volume. But remember: maximum towbar load — 1,500 kg (for R53 with diesel engine).
🔧 4. Optimize space with modular drawers
System Montero Sport or Dee Zee allows you to “extend” shelves in the trunk using vertical space. For example, in Pathfinder R52 can be placed 3 boxes of 20 l each without sacrificing the main volume.
🔧 5. Use vacuum bags
For transporting clothes or bedding, vacuum bags (for example, Space Bag) reduce the volume of cargo by 50–70%. This is especially true for long trips.
The most effective way to increase capacity is a roof rack + trailer combination. This gives up to 1,500 l additional space without losing comfort in the cabin.
Common Pathfinder trunk problems and how to solve them
Even with such a reliable car as Nissan Pathfinder, there are 典型的问题 with a luggage compartment. Here are the most common ones and how to fix them:
❌ 1. The trunk door does not open from the remote control
Reason: This is often due to dead battery in the remote control or oxidation of contacts in the control unit. Solution:
- Check the battery (in remote controls) Pathfinder used CR2032).
- If this does not help, remove the door trim and clean the contacts WD-40.
❌ 2. Creak when opening/closing the door
Reason: hinge wear or lack of lubrication. Solution:
- Buy lubricant Liqui Moly Silber-Spray and apply it to the loops.
- If the squeak remains, check door shock absorbers (in R52 they often fail after 100,000 km).
❌ 3. Water gets into the trunk
Reason: clogged drain holes or damage to the seal. Solution:
- Clean the drainage pipes (they are located under the plastic plugs in the lower corners of the door).
- Check the seal - if it is cracked, replace it with Nissan 999M1-V0014.
❌ 4. Trunk light does not work
Reason: usually this burnt out light bulb or a fuse problem. Solution:
- Light bulb in Pathfinder R52 — W5W (base T10).
- Fuse responsible for the backlight - F37 (10A) in the block under the steering wheel.
❌ 5. Seats do not lock after folding
Reason: wear of clamps or debris getting into the mechanism. Solution:
- Clean the seat backrest guides from dirt.
- If the latches are broken, replace them (part number for R51 — Nissan 80510-4M000).
What to do if the trunk door is stuck?
If the door Pathfinder does not open either from the remote control or manually:
1. Remove the interior trim from the trunk side (it is secured with clips).
2. Find the emergency release cable (usually red).
3. Pull the cable firmly and the door will open.
After this, be sure to check lock microswitch (article Nissan 37110-4M000).
FAQ: Answers to popular questions about the trunk of the Nissan Pathfinder
🔹 Is it possible to transport a refrigerator in the trunk of the Pathfinder R52?
Yes, but with reservations. Standard refrigerator up to 170 cm Will fit if you fold the second row of seats. However:
- 🔧 Maximum cargo width —
95 cm(otherwise it won’t fit through the doorway). - 🔧 The weight of the refrigerator should not exceed
150 kg(trunk limit R52). - 🔧 Secure the refrigerator with belts so that it does not move when braking.
It is better to use for transportation transport caseso as not to damage the casing.
🔹 What is the maximum weight that can be transported in the trunk?
Official data from Nissan:
- 🚗 Pathfinder R51: to
200 kg(evenly distributed). - 🚗 Pathfinder R52/R53: to
150 kg.
⚠️ Important: If you are transporting a heavy load (for example, bags of cement), distribute it over the entire floor area. A point load (such as from a toolbox) can warp the floor.
🔹 Will the trunk from Nissan Murano fit the Pathfinder R52?
No. Even though Pathfinder R52 And Murano Z51 built on the same platform, their luggage compartments have different:
- 🔧 Door opening shape (y Murano he's already on
10 cm). - 🔧 Attachments for cases and organizers.
- 🔧 Ceiling height (in Murano she is shorter by
5 cm).
Exception - universal accessories (for example, rugs WeatherTech or mesh CargoNet), which are suitable for both models.
🔹 How to protect the trunk from scratches when transporting a dog?
To protect the sheathing and floor, use:
- 🐕 Rubber mat PetLoad — has sides and does not slip.
- 🐕 Case 4Knines - waterproof, with zippers for access to hidden compartments.
- 🐕 Mesh separator Bushwacker — will prevent the dog from jumping into the cabin.
⚠️ Attention: if you have Pathfinder R53, avoid cases with magnetic fastenings - they can damage the vehicle's electronic systems.
🔹 Is it possible to install a second battery in the trunk of a Pathfinder?
Yes, but subject to the rules:
- 🔋 Use gel or AGM battery (For example, Optima YellowTop), since they are not afraid of bending.
- 🔋 Secure the battery in sealed box (For example, NOCO HM327BKS).
- 🔋 Connect via decoupling relayso as not to drain the main battery.
The best place to install is niche under the floor (in R51/R52) or behind the back of the third row (in R53).