The 2015 Nissan Pathfinder Is Looking For An Adventurous Family

The Nissan Pathfinder was completely redesigned two years ago, but for 2015 there have been some upgrades.

The seven passenger Pathfinder is available in either 2-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive configurations, with all models powered by the same 260-hp 3.5-liter DOHC V6 and a CVT (continuously variable transmission). The CVT has been programmed to simulate the shifts of a standard transmission in order to avoid the drone of holding a high rpm as the SUV accelerates. The benefit is a quiet and smooth ride.

This partnership nets an estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg highway and 20 mpg city (2WD models).

The pathfinder offers a 5,000lb towing capacity and is the available with an intelligent AWD system with selectable 2WD, Auto or 4WD Lock modes.

When the driver selects 2WD the system delivers the best fuel economy. In Auto, the system monitors driving conditions and adjusts the power delivery between the front and back wheels to provide the optimal traction. The 4WD lock mode keeps the system in 4WD.

When you add hill start and descent control to the 4WD, you end up with a capable off roader.

The previous models body-on-frame design, which made the Pathfinder one of the last truck based SUV’s, has been dropped in favour of a lighter unibody platform.

The well thought out and appealing interior includes comfortable seating and the2nd row tilt and glide seats allow easy 3rd row access even with a child safety seat still installed.

Available features include leather seating, Around View Monitor and 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system.

Technological enhancements include Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) to SL and Platinum grades. Hill Descent Control has been added to 4-wheel drive models.

Although the Pathfinder is technically a mid-size SUV, it offers the comfort of a full-size. The overall interior volume is 173.8 cubic feet and the space is flexible. A smart use of space is the under-floor storage in the rear cargo area, which grants you a secure hiding spot for your stuff.

The 3rd row seat is a 50/50 split-folding design, thus giving you a flexible cargo area. The 2nd and 3 row seats will fold flat and the 3rd row seats recline to allow the passengers a bit more comfort.

The instrument panel includes a large multifunction display which will display the optional navigation, with real time traffic and weather updates.

The new Pathfinder comes with 3 zone climate control, Bluetooth, hands-free phone system and a power lift-gate that will remember a pre-set position.

For the adventurous family it would be hard to beat the 2015 Nissan Pathfinder.