Nissan has a strong history of producing capable 4×4 vehicles with models such as the X-Trail, Patrol and of course the original Pathfinder. In an over saturated market of SUVs, the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder soldiers on with a fresh new look and different models and editions like the Rock Creek Edition. Let’s take a look to see if the 2019 Pathfinder is still a match for the modern day SUVs or will it struggle to find a path through the competitive segment?
RUGGED EXTERIOR
The Pathfinder has changed dramatically since its inception in the mid-eighties, but with that said, what vehicle hasn’t! The previous generation Pathfinder was rugged, capable and looked as if it could move mountains. From the outside, the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder shifted that impression to a more refined exterior to appeal to a broader market. This might not be a bad thing as modern day SUVs are generally more versatile than they initially appear from the outside.
The 2019 Pathfinder is a full-sized SUV with three rows of seating and places in between the smaller Nissan Rogue and the larger Nissan Armada.
The front end design of the 2019 Pathfinder is simple, yet refined without being over the top like many other exterior designs these days. The 2019 Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition elevates the exterior design with a high grille layout highlighted with a piano black surround, a mesh grille and LED daytime running lights. Black trim replaces the chrome all around the Pathfinder’s body and new bold, distinctive wheels also help the Rock Creek Edition stand out.
VERSATILE INTERIOR
Thinking back to the older versions of the Pathfinder, the 2019 model would now be considered a luxury brand with a dual panel panoramic moonroof, leather seats, wood grain trim, chrome accents and all the latest driving technology. The Pathfinder offers seating for seven passengers and unlike many other similar vehicles, the third row of seats are actually useable and roomy.
Cargo capacity in the 2019 Pathfinder is huge, but expect to this reduce to a minimal amount when the third row seats are in use. Compared to its rivals, the dashboard of the 2019 Pathfinder is quite straightforward and easy to use while edging a bit on the conservative side of design. It’s practical and efficient with all buttons and dials exactly where you would expect them to be.
The 2019 Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition elevates the interior with two tone leather seats with and orange stitching for a nice contrasting effect. Rock Creek badging and a more premium looking metallic trim also help to make the interior stand out in this edition.
ENGINE AND DRIVE
Nissan vehicles always pack some serious horsepower, especially the 300hp Nissan Maxima, and the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder is no different. Under the hood, you’ll find a single choice of engine across all models – a 3.5L V6 engine outputting 284hp and 259 lb-ft of torque with the option of delivering this power through 2WD or an intelligent 4WD system. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), common to many Nissan SUVs, like the 2019 Nissan Rogue. Personally, I really like the ride quality delivered by a CVT as it’s smoother and quieter than an automatic transmission. Some of the more performance-oriented drivers may find it a bit slower to pick the appropriate gear so to speak for spirited accelerations.
The gas savings of a CVT transmission help to offset the more powerful engine in the 2019 Pathfinder, yielding a posted rate of 8.9 L/100km on the highway and 12.1 L/100km in the city for the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition. One benefit of having the more powerful engine is the larger towing capacity of 6,000lbs, which is up there with any other SUV and most pick-up trucks as well!
Front wheel drive only is standard on the base models, which would be fine for the standard commute, but don’t be caught out and embarrassed when the snow falls and you get stuck. Just spend the extra little bit for the four-wheel drive models and take advantage of Nissan’s fine 4×4 experience. You’ll have a number of settings to adapt the four wheel drive system to the conditions to make sure you keep moving.
Overall, the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience, while maintaining its roots as a performance 4×4. Although many drivers will never push the Pathfinder to the limits off road, it’s reassuring to know that it’s ready for anything. Combine all this performance with the latest in safety technology and you have a winning combination.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Starting at $33,298 for the base model 2019 Nissan Pathfinder and $41,698 for the 2019 Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition, there exists quite a bit of value for money considering this is a full sized three row SUV, packed full of features and technology. The 2019 Pathfinder is more than capable off road and delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience on road.
