The Nissan Pathfinder V, specifically the facelifted 2025 model equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 284 horsepower and paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive, represents Nissan’s continued refinement of a popular family SUV. Production began in November 2025, building upon the foundation laid by the fifth-generation Pathfinder introduced in 2022. This variant occupies a mid-to-upper trim level within the Pathfinder lineup, offering a balance of performance, capability, and features aimed at families seeking a versatile and comfortable vehicle. The 2025 facelift brings subtle styling updates and enhancements to the technology features, further solidifying the Pathfinder’s position in the competitive three-row SUV segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Pathfinder |
| Generation | Pathfinder V (facelift 2025) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 (284 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | November, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2-11.8 l/100 km (21 – 19.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.7-9.4 l/100 km (27 – 25 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.2-10.7 l/100 km (23.1 – 22 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Tier3 Bin70/LEV3-ULEV70 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 139.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 172.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 284 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 81.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 351 Nm @ 4800 rpm (258.88 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6600 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | VQ35DD |
| Engine displacement | 3498 cm3 (213.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11.58 l (12.24 US qt | 10.19 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2033-2105 kg (4482 – 4640.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2750 kg (6062.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 645-717 kg (1421.98 – 1580.71 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 470 l (16.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2280 l (80.52 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Length | 5022 mm (197.72 in.) |
| Width | 1979 mm (77.91 in.) |
| Height | 1801 mm (70.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2901 mm (114.21 in.) |
| Front track | 1699 mm (66.89 in.) |
| Rear track | 1699 mm (66.89 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 180 mm (7.09 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 15.6° |
| Departure angle | 20.9° |
| Ramp-over angle | 15.6° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives front wheels, rear wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears | 9 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350.01×29.97 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 329.95×16 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/60 R18; 255/50 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder V 3.5 V6 4WD Automatic is a seven or eight-passenger SUV designed to cater to the needs of modern families. Building on the fully redesigned fifth generation, the 2025 model year introduces a refreshed exterior and interior, along with updated technology features. This particular configuration, featuring the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission coupled with Nissan’s intelligent four-wheel drive system, is positioned as a strong all-around performer, offering a balance of power, efficiency, and all-weather capability. It sits above the base S trim and often serves as a popular choice for buyers prioritizing a smooth driving experience and enhanced traction.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Pathfinder variant lies Nissan’s VQ35DD 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine is a well-established design, known for its reliability and smooth power delivery. It utilizes Nissan’s Direct Injection and Multi-port manifold injection system, optimizing fuel combustion and enhancing performance. The engine produces 284 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 351 Nm (258.88 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4800 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The nine-speed automatic transmission, a key component of this powertrain, is designed to improve fuel efficiency and provide seamless gear changes. It features adaptive shift control, adjusting shift patterns based on driving conditions. The four-wheel drive system employs an electronically controlled clutch to engage the rear wheels when needed, providing enhanced traction in slippery conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2025 Pathfinder 3.5 V6 4WD Automatic delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience. The 284 horsepower provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving and highway merging, although it doesn’t offer the same briskness as some turbocharged competitors. The nine-speed automatic transmission contributes to a smooth and refined feel, with well-chosen gear ratios that keep the engine in its optimal power band. The four-wheel drive system inspires confidence in inclement weather, providing enhanced stability and traction. Compared to lower-trim Pathfinders with front-wheel drive, the 4WD variant offers superior grip and control. While not a sports SUV, the Pathfinder handles corners reasonably well, with minimal body roll thanks to the well-tuned suspension.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2025 Pathfinder 3.5 V6 4WD Automatic typically comes standard with a generous array of features. These often include Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite of driver-assistance technologies, which encompasses features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Interior amenities typically include tri-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and comfortable seating for up to eight passengers. Higher trim levels offer upgrades such as leather upholstery, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen display, a premium audio system, and a panoramic sunroof. Optional extras often include captain’s chairs in the second row, a rear entertainment system, and a tow package.
Chassis & Braking
The Pathfinder V utilizes a robust chassis designed to provide a comfortable ride and confident handling. The front suspension features a strut design with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employs an independent multi-link setup, also with a stabilizer bar. This configuration helps to minimize body roll and provide a stable ride. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The front brakes measure 350.01×29.97 mm, while the rear brakes are 329.95×16 mm. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, along with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder V 3.5 V6 4WD Automatic has generally been well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praise its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and user-friendly technology. The V6 engine is considered adequate for most drivers, although some note that it lacks the punch of turbocharged alternatives. Fuel economy is competitive within the segment, with EPA estimates ranging from 22-23 mpg combined. Compared to other trims in the Pathfinder lineup, the 3.5 V6 4WD Automatic offers a significant upgrade in terms of performance and all-weather capability. It represents a sweet spot for buyers who prioritize a balanced driving experience and enhanced traction.
Legacy
Nissan’s VQ engine family has a long-standing reputation for reliability, and the VQ35DD is expected to continue that tradition. While long-term reliability data for the 2025 model is still emerging, the underlying engine architecture has proven durable in previous applications. On the used car market, Pathfinders equipped with the 3.5 V6 engine are generally sought after for their dependability and relatively low maintenance costs. The nine-speed automatic transmission, while more complex than older designs, has also proven to be generally reliable. The 2025 facelifted model is expected to hold its value well, thanks to its updated styling and enhanced features.
