# Nissan Pathfinder specs and mpg by year

- **Latest year:** 2026
- **MPG (combined):** 21-23
- **Drive:** 4WD, FWD
- **Years covered:** 2015-2026

## Quick answer

The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder is a midsize/large SUV rated at 21-23 mpg combined. Engines: 3.5L V6.

## Every 2026 Nissan Pathfinder version

| Version | Engine | Drive | Transmission | City/Hwy | Combined | Fuel cost / year | CO2 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Pathfinder 2WD | 3.5L V6 | FWD | Automatic | 21/27 | 23 mpg | $2,900 | 382 g/mi |
| Pathfinder 4WD | 3.5L V6 | 4WD | Automatic | 21/26 | 23 mpg | $2,900 | 390 g/mi |
| Pathfinder 4WD Platinum | 3.5L V6 | 4WD | Automatic | 20/25 | 22 mpg | $3,050 | 408 g/mi |
| Pathfinder 4WD Rock Creek | 3.5L V6 | 4WD | Automatic | 20/23 | 21 mpg | $3,900 | 422 g/mi |

Each row is a version the EPA tested. Fuel cost assumes 15,000 miles a year (55% city) at national average prices; CO2 is tailpipe emissions.

## Nissan Pathfinder specs by year

| Year | Engines | Transmission | Drive | MPG (combined) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | 3.5L V6 | Automatic | 4WD, FWD | 21-23 |
| 2025 | 3.5L V6 | Automatic | 4WD, FWD | 21-23 |
| 2024 | 3.5L V6 | Automatic | 4WD, FWD | 21-23 |
| 2023 | 3.5L V6 | Automatic | 4WD, FWD | 21-23 |
| 2022 | 3.5L V6 | Automatic | 4WD, FWD | 22-23 |
| 2020 | 3.5L V6 | CVT | 4WD, FWD | 21-23 |
| 2019 | 3.5L V6 | CVT | 4WD, FWD | 21-23 |
| 2018 | 3.5L V6 | CVT | 4WD, FWD | 21-23 |
| 2017 | 3.5L V6 | CVT | 4WD, FWD | 21-23 |
| 2016 | 3.5L V6 | CVT | 4WD, FWD | 21-23 |
| 2015 | 3.5L V6; 2.5L 4-cyl supercharged hybrid | CVT | 4WD, FWD | 21-26 |

EPA combined ratings. MPGe is the EPA efficiency measure for electric cars. Ranges cover every engine and drivetrain EPA tested for that year.

## How has the Pathfinder changed over the years?

- **2023:** combined mpg went from 22-23 to 21-23.
- **2022:** combined mpg went from 21-23 to 22-23.
- **2016:** dropped 2.5L 4-cyl supercharged hybrid.

## What does it cost to run a Pathfinder?

The EPA puts the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder's fuel cost at **$2,900-$3,900 a year**, against about $2,984 for other current midsize/large SUVs: roughly 14% more. Over five years at 15,000 miles a year that is about $17,000 in fuel.

## Pathfinder vs rivals

| Model | Powertrains | Fuel economy | Fuel cost / year |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Jeep Cherokee](/vehicles/jeep-cherokee) | Hybrid | 37 mpg | $1,800 |
| [Toyota Grand Highlander](/vehicles/toyota-grand-highlander) | Gas, Hybrid | 22-36 mpg | $1,850-$3,050 |
| [Toyota Highlander](/vehicles/toyota-highlander) | Gas, Hybrid | 24-35 mpg | $1,900-$2,800 |
| [Kia Telluride](/vehicles/kia-telluride) | Gas, Hybrid | 19-35 mpg | $1,900-$3,550 |
| [Hyundai Palisade](/vehicles/hyundai-palisade) | Gas, Hybrid | 19-34 mpg | $1,950-$3,550 |
| [Volvo XC90](/vehicles/volvo-xc90) | Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 23-27 mpg | $3,050-$3,550 |
| [Lexus TX](/vehicles/lexus-tx) | Gas, Hybrid | 23-27 mpg | $3,050-$3,550 |
| [BMW X5](/vehicles/bmw-x5) | Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 15-26 mpg | $3,150-$5,500 |

Other current midsize/large SUVs from other makes, most efficient first.

## Nissan Pathfinder problems owners report most

| System (NHTSA category) | Complaints |
| --- | --- |
| Engine | 290 |
| Power Train | 200 |
| Service Brakes | 190 |
| Electrical System | 171 |
| Air Bags | 102 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 75 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 61 |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 61 |

From 1,227 complaints filed with NHTSA for 2015-2026 models. Most-complained-about model year: **2015**.

## Guides for common Nissan Pathfinder problems

- **Engine** (290 complaints): [Why is my car idling rough](/symptoms/rough-idle) - [Why is my engine knocking](/symptoms/engine-knocking-noise) - [Why is my car leaking oil](/symptoms/car-leaking-oil) - [engine replacement cost](/cost/engine-replacement) - [timing chain replacement cost](/cost/timing-chain-replacement) - [valve cover gasket replacement cost](/cost/valve-cover-gasket-replacement)
- **Transmission and drivetrain** (200 complaints): [Why is my transmission slipping](/symptoms/transmission-slipping) - [Why won't my car go into gear](/symptoms/car-wont-go-into-gear) - [Why does my car jerk when I accelerate](/symptoms/car-jerks-when-accelerating) - [transmission replacement cost](/cost/transmission-replacement) - [transmission fluid change cost](/cost/transmission-fluid-change) - [clutch replacement cost](/cost/clutch-replacement)
- **Brake** (190 complaints): [Why are my brakes squeaking](/symptoms/squeaky-brakes) - [Why do my brakes make a grinding noise](/symptoms/brake-grinding-noise) - [Why does my brake pedal go to the floor](/symptoms/brake-pedal-goes-to-floor) - [brake pad replacement cost](/cost/brake-pad-replacement) - [brake rotor replacement cost](/cost/brake-rotor-replacement) - [brake caliper replacement cost](/cost/brake-caliper-replacement)
- **Electrical** (171 complaints): [Why does my car battery keep dying](/symptoms/car-battery-keeps-dying) - [Why are my headlights flickering](/symptoms/headlights-flickering) - [Why won't my car start](/symptoms/car-wont-start) - [alternator replacement cost](/cost/alternator-replacement) - [car battery replacement cost](/cost/car-battery-replacement) - [starter replacement cost](/cost/starter-replacement)

## Nissan Pathfinder warning lights

- [Pathfinder: Airbag (SRS) warning light](/warning-lights/airbag/nissan-pathfinder): 48 complaints
- [Pathfinder: Check engine light](/warning-lights/check-engine/nissan-pathfinder): 48 complaints
- [Pathfinder: Coolant temperature warning light](/warning-lights/coolant-temperature/nissan-pathfinder): 29 complaints
- [Pathfinder: Traction control light](/warning-lights/traction-control/nissan-pathfinder): 23 complaints
- [Pathfinder: Brake warning light](/warning-lights/brake/nissan-pathfinder): 15 complaints
- [Pathfinder: ABS warning light](/warning-lights/abs/nissan-pathfinder): 14 complaints
- [Pathfinder: Power steering warning light](/warning-lights/power-steering/nissan-pathfinder): 12 complaints

## Nissan Pathfinder recalls (17)

| Campaign | Model years | Component | Reported |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [25V173000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V173000) | 2025 | Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Foundation Components | 2025-03-19 |
| [24V176000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V176000) | 2024 | Seat Belts: Pretensioner | 2024-03-05 |
| [24V154000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V154000) | 2024 | Air Bags: Frontal | 2024-02-27 |
| [23V268000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V268000) | 2023 | Seats: Critical Fasteners | 2023-04-13 |
| [22V527000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V527000) | 2022 | Back Over Prevention:  Sensing System | 2022-07-21 |
| [22V420000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V420000) | 2015-2016 | Latches/Locks/Linkages: Hood | 2022-06-13 |
| [22V111000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V111000) | 2022 | Seats: Critical Fasteners | 2022-02-24 |
| [21V743000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V743000) | 2022 | Seats: Critical Fasteners | 2021-09-23 |
| [21V742000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V742000) | 2022 | Seats: Mid/Rear Assembly | 2021-09-23 |
| [21V706000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V706000) | 2022 | Latches/Locks/Linkages: Hood | 2021-09-10 |
| [21V020000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V020000) | 2015 | Exterior Lighting: Brake Lights | 2021-01-20 |
| [19V807000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=19V807000) | 2017-2019 | Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip | 2019-11-08 |
| [19V654000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=19V654000) | 2018-2019 | Back Over Prevention:  Sensing System | 2019-09-12 |
| [18V601000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=18V601000) | 2017-2018 | Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip | 2018-09-07 |
| [16V244000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V244000) | 2015-2016 | Air Bags: Sensor | 2016-04-26 |
| [15V681000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=15V681000) | 2015 | Air Bags: Frontal | 2015-10-20 |
| [15V012000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=15V012000) | 2015 | Service Brakes | 2015-01-14 |

Recall repairs are free at any Nissan dealer. Check your VIN at [nhtsa.gov/recalls](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). Data as of 2026-11-04.

## Frequently asked questions

### What mpg does the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder get?

The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder is EPA-rated at 21-23 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain. Real-world mileage varies with speed, climate and load.

### What engine does the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder have?

The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder comes with: 3.5L V6. It uses automatic transmission and is offered with 4WD and FWD.

### Is there a hybrid Nissan Pathfinder?

Yes. The Nissan Pathfinder has been offered as a hybrid in some model years; the table above shows which.

### Which Nissan Pathfinder year gets the best gas mileage?

In the EPA data, the 2015 Nissan Pathfinder has the highest combined rating, up to 26 mpg. Ratings for the same model can change between years when engines or test procedures change.

### How much does it cost to fuel a 2026 Nissan Pathfinder for a year?

About $2,900-$3,900 a year, using the EPA's assumptions of 15,000 miles (55% city, 45% highway) at national average fuel prices. Your cost depends on your local prices, mileage and driving style.

### What is the city and highway mpg of the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder?

The most efficient 2026 version, the Pathfinder 2WD, is rated 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway (23 combined). Other engines and drivetrains are rated lower; the versions table above lists each one.

### How much CO2 does the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder emit?

EPA rates its tailpipe CO2 at 382-422 grams per mile depending on version. Lower is better; the cleanest gas cars sit under 250 g/mi and electric cars have none at the tailpipe.

### Does the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder come with all-wheel drive?

Yes. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder is offered with 4WD and FWD. All- or four-wheel drive usually costs 1-3 mpg compared with the two-wheel-drive version of the same engine, as the versions table shows.

### Is the Nissan Pathfinder cheap to run compared with other midsize/large SUVs?

No, dearer than average: its EPA annual fuel cost of $2,900-$3,900 compares with about $2,984 for other current midsize/large SUV models. Fuel is only part of running costs; insurance, tires and repairs also differ.

### How many recalls does the Nissan Pathfinder have?

NHTSA lists 17 recalls for 2015-2026 Nissan Pathfinder models as of 2026-11-04, the latest reported 2025-03-19 (25V173000). Recall work is free; enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see which apply to your car.

### What is the most common problem with the Nissan Pathfinder?

In NHTSA owner complaints the most-reported category is engine, followed by power train. The 2015 model year has the most complaints (321), partly because complaint counts follow sales volume.

## Sources

- [fueleconomy.gov (US DOE and EPA)](https://www.fueleconomy.gov/)
- [NHTSA: Vehicle safety complaints and recalls (api.nhtsa.gov)](https://www.nhtsa.gov/nhtsa-datasets-and-apis)

## All Nissan SUVs

- [Nissan Kicks](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-kicks)
- [Nissan Rogue](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-rogue)
- [Nissan Armada](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-armada)

## More Nissan models

- [Nissan Altima](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-altima)
- [Nissan ARIYA](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-ariya)
- [Nissan Frontier](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-frontier)
- [Nissan LEAF](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-leaf)
- [Nissan Murano](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-murano)
- [Nissan Sentra](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-sentra)
- [Nissan Z](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-z)
- [Nissan 370Z](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-370z): discontinued
- [Nissan GT-R](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-gt-r): discontinued
- [Nissan Maxima](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-maxima): discontinued
- [Nissan Rogue Sport](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-rogue-sport): discontinued
- [Nissan Titan](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-titan): discontinued

## Other midsize/large SUVs

- [Porsche Cayenne](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/porsche-cayenne)
- [Rivian R1S](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/rivian-r1s)
- [Subaru Ascent](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/subaru-ascent)
- [Tesla Model X](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/tesla-model-x)
- [Toyota 4Runner](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/toyota-4runner)
- [Toyota Grand Highlander](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/toyota-grand-highlander)
- [Toyota Highlander](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/toyota-highlander)
- [Toyota Land Cruiser](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/toyota-land-cruiser)

## Car care

- [How long do tires last?](https://diagxcar.com/how-long/tires)
- [How often to change oil](https://diagxcar.com/how-often/change-oil)
- [Tire size calculator](https://diagxcar.com/tools/tire-size-calculator)

---

Source page: https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-pathfinder
Updated: 2026-11-03
General information, not a substitute for a qualified mechanic.