The Nissan Pathfinder has long been a staple in the SUV market, known for its blend of comfort, space, and capability. After spending a week with the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder SL, a significant upgrade from a previous experience with the 2015 SV trim, it’s clear that Nissan has addressed some key areas to enhance the Pathfinder’s appeal. This review dives into the details of the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder SL, exploring its features, performance, and overall value as a family SUV.
Enhanced Comfort and Interior: A Step Up in Trim
One of the most immediate and noticeable improvements in the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder SL is the interior comfort, particularly the seating. Moving up to the SL trim brings with it luxurious leather seating surfaces that make a significant difference compared to the cloth seats found in lower trims like the SV. While the underlying seat structure may be similar, the feel and experience are dramatically enhanced. The leather not only provides a more premium feel but also seems to offer a more comfortable seating experience, resolving some of the discomfort issues noted in previous models with cloth seats. The improved adjustability and overall comfort level make long drives and daily commutes much more enjoyable for both the driver and passengers.
Upgraded Infotainment System: NissanConnect Makes a Difference
Another major enhancement in the 2016 Pathfinder SL is the inclusion of the NissanConnect infotainment system. This system is a significant leap forward from the dated and less user-friendly system found in earlier models. NissanConnect offers a much more intuitive interface, making navigation, media control, and phone integration seamless and straightforward. The system’s responsiveness and logical menu layout contribute to a better user experience, reducing frustration and enhancing convenience. Importantly, the SL trim allows for Bluetooth music streaming, a feature that was surprisingly absent in the previous SV trim tested, highlighting a crucial upgrade for modern connectivity needs. Pairing a smartphone for hands-free operation is also notably easier and more reliable with NissanConnect.
Family-Friendly and Capable: Balancing Needs
The Nissan Pathfinder truly shines as a family-oriented SUV. It prioritizes passenger comfort and practicality over rugged off-road capabilities, positioning itself perfectly for families needing space and versatility in everyday driving conditions and occasional challenging weather. The Pathfinder’s intelligent 4×4 system, coupled with Michelin tires featuring taller sidewalls, provides a confident grip and stability in various weather conditions, including snow and rain. This setup offers a practical level of all-weather preparedness that is often more relevant for most families than hardcore off-roading prowess. For those who need to navigate rough driveways or handle snowy roads, the Pathfinder offers a capable solution without sacrificing on-road comfort and fuel efficiency, unlike some more truck-like SUVs.
Powertrain and Fuel Economy: Efficient and Responsive
Under the hood, the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder SL features a 260-horsepower V6 engine paired with Nissan’s Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). This powertrain combination delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience. Acceleration from a standstill is surprisingly brisk, and the CVT contributes to efficient power delivery and fuel economy. In mixed driving conditions, achieving 22 MPG is realistic, aligning well with EPA combined fuel economy estimates. This fuel efficiency is commendable for a vehicle of the Pathfinder’s size and capability, making it a practical choice for families looking to balance space and running costs. While some may prefer traditional automatic transmissions, the CVT in the Pathfinder is well-tuned and contributes to its overall refined driving character.
Overall Verdict: A Solid Choice in the Family SUV Segment
The 2016 Nissan Pathfinder SL presents a compelling package for families in the market for a spacious and comfortable SUV. It addresses key concerns from previous iterations, particularly in interior comfort and infotainment technology. While it may not be designed for extreme off-roading, it offers ample capability for everyday family needs, including all-weather driving and light-duty tasks. The Pathfinder’s strengths lie in its comfortable ride, user-friendly technology, and efficient powertrain. For families prioritizing space, comfort, and practicality in a mid-size SUV, the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder SL is definitely worth considering. While personal preferences may vary, especially regarding vehicle size and specific features, the Pathfinder stands out as a well-rounded and competitive option in its class.
