The fifth-gen Nissan Pathfinder that broke cover as a 2022 model in 2021, like most rivals, isn’t available with any sort of electrification. While Nissan has several new electrified models in the making, it seems unlikely that a hybrid Pathfinder is part of Nissan’s immediate future. The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, which could hit U.S. dealerships in the second half of this year, should be a gasoline-only SUV, just like the current (MY2024) model.
On the Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid
Nissan has announced plans to release 27 electrified models globally by FY2030, with 19 of them being EVs and the remaining being hybrids. However, the company has not launched e-Power variants in the U.S. market, though the Versa Note, Rogue Sport, and Rogue, employ this technology overseas. This leads us to believe that a Pathfinder Hybrid is unlikely to be launched in the U.S. during this generation.
Moreover, the Pathfinder is performing well, and Nissan may not see an immediate need to add new powertrains. In 2022, Nissan sold 57,862 units of the Pathfinder in the country. Compared to 2021 (41,324 units), that was a 40% growth in sales. 2023 was also a good year, with 71,710 units sold, 23.9% more than in 2022.
That said, Nissan is considering e-Power for the U.S., but it may use a future version of the technology that is adapted for both transverse and longitudinal layouts. Instead of Pathfinder, the Rogue, the brand’s best-selling model in the U.S., could be its first SUV to feature e-Power. In 2023, the company sold 271,458 units of the compact SUV in our market. The current Rogue is available with e-Power in other markets (where it’s called X-Trail), but we may have to wait for the next-gen model to see electrification, possibly till 2026 or 2027.
Design
The fifth-gen Nissan Pathfinder is sharper, boxier, and more rugged than the fourth-gen model. C-shaped headlights, larger radiator grille, squarer silhouette, edgy, wider, and slimmer taillights, and the “boxed out” liftgate give the redesigned SUV assertiveness and a bold look, which were missing on the fourth-gen model.
Inside, the Nissan Pathfinder looks more spacious and upmarket following the redesign for the fifth generation. The sleeker dashboard, more compact steering wheel, fully digital instrument cluster, decluttered center console with far fewer buttons, and free-standing touchscreen infotainment system give a very contemporary look, clearly a big leap from the fourth generation. The fifth-gen Pathfinder seats up to eight people, and optionally, unlike the old model, it is available with captain seats in the second row and a no-tools-required removable center console between them.
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder is expected to retain the same design as the outgoing model, both inside and out. While there may be fresh options for colors and trims, the overall appearance is expected to remain unchanged.
Features
On the outside, the Nissan Pathfinder features LED headlights, including slim upper DRLs, two-tone body paint and alloy wheels, LED taillights, and Pathfinder branding in block lettering on the tailgate.
Interior highlights include a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster, 10.8-inch HUD, 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, second-row bench seat with EZ FLEX one-touch release fold/side, climate-controlled front seats with 10-way power adjustment for driver’s seat, two-zone climate control, and heated rear seats.
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder could see some changes in the standard equipment offered in each trim level.
Safety
Ten airbags, Intelligent Driver Alertness, Rear Door Alert, Forward Collision Warning, and Nissan Safety Shield 360 will likely be standard in the 2025 Pathfinder. Nissan Safety Shield 360 should include the following safety systems:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
- Blind Spot Warning
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Lane Departure Warning
- High Beam Assist
- Rear Automatic Braking
More safety and driver assistance systems like Traffic Sign Recognition, Blind Spot Intervention, Intelligent Lane Intervention, and ProPILOT Assist with Navi-link will likely be optionally available.
Powertrain
A conventional 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine linked to a 9-speed automatic transmission and producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque will likely be standard in the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder. A 4WD system with 7-position Drive and Terrain Mode Selector should be optional.
Price & Release date
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder may start at around USD 37,000. An official announcement is expected in Q3 2024 (July-September 2024).
2025 Nissan Pathfinder FAQs
What is the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder release date?
Nissan may announce the 2025 Pathfinder in the U.S. in Q3 2024 (July-September 2024).
When do you expect the hybrid variant to join the Pathfinder lineup?
The Pathfinder is unlikely to gain a hybrid variant in the near future.
Which models will be the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder rivals?
Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, Ford Explorer, and Kia Telluride.
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
