New Nissan Pathfinder 2023 — this is not just a restyling, but a complete rethinking of the legendary crossover. The Japanese brand has made radical changes to return the model to the ranks of the segment leaders. The platform changed, a turbo engine appeared, and the design became more aggressive - but retained the recognizable features of the family. In this article we will look at what has changed in fourth generation after the update, what configuration offered on the Russian market and what to look for when purchasing.
The main trump card Pathfinder 2023 is a combination 7-seater cabin with dynamics close to SUVs. Nissan engineers have worked on handling, reducing roll in corners, and adaptive suspension is now available even in basic versions. But not everything is so smooth: some decisions (for example, abandoning a hybrid in favor of a turbo engine) raise questions. Next is a detailed analysis of all key aspects, from the engine to the multimedia system.
Design: aggressive vs. practicality
Appearance Nissan Pathfinder 2023 became the subject of controversy even before its official debut. The designers abandoned smooth lines in favor of angular shapes borrowed from the concept Nissan Ariya. A massive radiator grille with V-shaped chrome inserts, narrow headlights with an LED matrix and powerful wheel arches - all this creates the image of a “serious” crossover. But not everyone likes this approach.
At the rear, the changes are less radical: the vertical lights have been retained, but they have become thinner, and the bumper has integrated exhaust pipes (even in versions with front-wheel drive!). Dimensions grown: length now 5041 mm (+75 mm), width - 1978 mm (+35 mm), and the wheelbase increased to 2901 mm. This had a positive effect on interior space, but maneuvering in the city became more difficult.
- 🔹 Design advantages: memorable appearance, premium elements (chrome, LED), increased ground clearance
210 mm. - 🔸 Cons: subjectively “rough” shapes, large overhangs that cling to off-road conditions.
- 🔶 Interesting fact: The front bumper has active louvers that close at speed to improve aerodynamics.
- I love aggressive shapes!
- Too angular, don't like it
- Neutral, the main thing is technical characteristics
- I prefer the previous generation
Technical characteristics: turbo engine instead of hybrid
Nissan's most controversial decision is the abandonment of a hybrid installation in favor of 3.5-liter V6 turbocharged. This motor, known from the model Infiniti QX60, develops 310 hp And 390 Nm torque. Works with him 9-speed automatic with manual switching mode. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes 7.2 seconds - an excellent result for a 7-seater crossover.
However no hybrid version in 2023 raises questions: competitors (like Toyota Highlander or Kia Sorento) already offer such options. But in Pathfinder appeared "Eco" mode, which shifts gears smoother and reduces fuel consumption. According to his passport, he makes 12.4 l/100 km in the city and 8.7 l/100 km on the highway - but real figures are 15–20% higher.
| Parameter | Nissan Pathfinder 2023 | Toyota Highlander Hybrid | Kia Sorento 3.5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5 V6 Turbo (310 hp) |
2.5 Hybrid (243 hp) |
3.5 V6 (294 hp) |
| Consumption (city) | 12.4 l/100 km |
6.2 l/100 km |
13.8 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0–100 km/h | 7.2 s |
8.3 s |
7.9 s |
| Drive | Front/All Wheel (AWD) | Full (AWD) | Front/All Wheel (AWD) |
⚠️ Attention: When choosing between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, keep in mind that Pathfinder withAWDhas a systemIntelligent 4x4, which automatically engages the rear axle when slipping. However, this is not a full-fledged SUV - for serious off-road use it is better to consider Nissan Patrol.
Interior and equipment: premium or budget?
Interior Pathfinder 2023 made in the style of "Japanese minimalism": a lot of soft plastics, stitching on the panels and aluminum inserts. In top trim levels there is ventilated leather seats, and the steering wheel is covered with perforated leather. However, some materials (for example, plastic on the door panels) look cheap for a car of this class.
The main innovation is 12.3" touch screen with support Apple CarPlay And Android Auto. The system works quickly, but the interface is not the most intuitive: for example, to access the climate control you need to make an extra press. But in the basic package there is digital dashboard (8 inches), which many competitors do not have.
- 🛋️ Pros of the salon: spacious second row (can be extended to
240 mm), large trunk (464 lin 5-seater mode), panoramic roof at the top. - 🚫 Cons: The third row is cramped for adults, there is no wireless charging in the base, the noise level is average.
- 🎛️ Feature: heated steering wheel, seats and even running boards (in version
Platinum).
How to fold the third row of seats?
To fold the third row, pull the lever on the seatback (right) while pressing the armrest. The seats fold down in a 50:50 ratio to create a flat floor. Attention: in some trim levels, to do this you must first move the second row forward!
Options and prices for 2023
In Russia Nissan Pathfinder 2023 Available in four trim levels: S, SV, SL And Platinum. Prices start from 4 299 000 ₽ for the basic version with front-wheel drive and end 5 899 000 ₽ for the top Platinum AWD. Let's look at what's included in each:
- 🔘 S (base): 18-inch wheels, fabric interior, climate control, rear view camera,
6 airbags. - 🔘 SV: + leather steering wheel, keyless entry, parking sensors, heated front seats.
- 🔘 SL: + panoramic roof, seat ventilation, audio system Bose (13 speakers), adaptive cruise.
- 🔘 Platinum: + 20-inch wheels, all-round cameras, head-up display, massage seats.
Is it worth overpaying for the top? If you care driver assistance systems (For example, ProPILOT Assist, which keeps the car in the lane), then yes. But many options (like a panoramic roof) can be purchased separately. For example, package Premium for version SV adds leather interior and Bose for 250 000 ₽.
☑️ What to check when inspecting the salon?
Handling and comfort: test drive impressions
Driving Pathfinder 2023 it feels like the engineers have worked on the handling. New platform Nissan D (joint with Renault And Mitsubishi) made the body stiffer by 27%, and adaptive shock absorbers (optional) reduced roll in corners. However, the steering remained a little "wobbly" - a typical problem for large crossovers.
The crossover stays confident on the highway thanks to the system Intelligent Trace Control, which steers in turns. But in the city Dimensions and poor visibility (due to thick racks) create difficulties. But the suspension smooths out bumps well - even on 20-inch wheels.
When test driving, be sure to check the operation of the turbo engine at low speeds. Some owners complain about “turbo lag” when starting abruptly from a standstill.
⚠️ Attention: In modeSportthe engine becomes more responsive, but fuel consumption increases by up to15–16 l/100 km. Use it only on the highway to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Safety: How many stars does Pathfinder have?
In tests IIHS (USA) Nissan Pathfinder 2023 received the highest rating Top Safety Pick+, but in Euro NCAP it hasn't been tested yet. Standard equipment includes:
- 🛡️ 6 airbags (including knee for the driver).
- 🚗 Collision avoidance system with pedestrians and cyclists.
- 👁️ Blind Spot Monitoring with a warning about changing lanes.
- 🅿️ Automatic parking (in configurations
SLAndPlatinum).
However, there are nuances: all-round cameras are not available in basic versions, and the system Rear Automatic Braking (automatic braking when reversing) does not always work correctly on uneven surfaces.
System ProPILOT Assist (adaptive cruise + lane keeping) is available only in top trim levels. In basic versions it cannot be purchased even as an option.
Comparison with competitors: who is better?
Main rivals Pathfinder 2023 - this is Toyota Highlander, Kia Sorento And Hyundai Santa Fe. Let's compare them based on key parameters:
| Criterion | Nissan Pathfinder | Toyota Highlander Hybrid | Kia Sorento 3.5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (base) | 4.3 million ₽ |
4.8 million ₽ |
4.1 million ₽ |
| Fuel consumption | 12.4 l/100 km |
6.2 l/100 km |
13.8 l/100 km |
| Warranty | 3 years / 100,000 km |
5 years / 150,000 km |
7 years / 150,000 km |
| Advantage | Best dynamics, spacious interior | Hybrid, reliability, consumption | Long warranty, price |
Who is Pathfinder for? To those who appreciate space And power, but not ready to pay for a hybrid. Highlander wins in terms of efficiency, and Sorento - under warranty. However, only Pathfinder There is turbo engine as standard.
Owner reviews: real experience
Reviews on forums and social networks about Nissan Pathfinder 2023 polar. Someone praises comfort And dynamics, others scold for fuel consumption And Shumka. Here are typical opinions:
- ✅ “The engine is just a beast! I can overtake everything, but it eats gas like a truck.” (Alexey, Moscow)
- ❌ "The third row is a lie. Children over 10 years old will not fit there." (Olga, St. Petersburg)
- 🔧 "After 20,000 km, a creaking sound appeared in the front suspension. The dealer said that this was the norm." (Igor, Ekaterinburg)
Most often they complain about:
- High fuel consumption in the city (up to
16 l/100 km). - Rigid suspension on 20-inch wheels.
- The high cost of original spare parts (for example, the front bumper costs
~150 000 ₽).
Before purchasing, be sure to check the car's history through Autocode or CarVertical. There have been cases where dealers sold used cars as new.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions
🔹 How much does maintenance cost for Nissan Pathfinder 2023?
The cost of scheduled maintenance (every 15,000 km) starts from 25 000 ₽ from an official dealer. The first maintenance includes changing the oil, filters and diagnostics. After 60,000 km, a brake fluid change is added (+5 000 ₽).
🔹 Is it possible to install gas equipment?
Technically yes, but Nissan does not recommend do this because the engine VR35DDTT designed for high-octane gasoline (AI-95/98). Gas may cause valve overheating and loss of warranty. An alternative is to use methane, but this is a rare option.
🔹 Which drive is better to choose: front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive?
If you only drive in the city and on the highway, front wheel drive enough. Full (AWD) adds ~300 000 ₽ to the price and increases fuel consumption by 0.5–1 l/100 km. It's useful for snow or light off-roading, but it won't replace a real SUV.
🔹 What tires come as standard?
In version S tires are installed 235/65 R18 stamps Bridgestone Dueler H/P Sport. They perform well on asphalt, but on wet roads the braking distance increases. Many owners change them to Michelin Primacy SUV or Continental CrossContact LX2.
🔹 When can we expect restyling or a new generation?
According to information from insiders, major restyling scheduled for 2026. Perhaps a hybrid version will appear. The new generation is not expected until 2027–2028, as the platform Nissan D still fresh.