Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition

The Nissan Pathfinder name is one that’s been around more than 30 years, and has evolved from a body-on-frame SUV into a versatile unibody crossover. The latest generation is as comfortable in town as it is on forest service roads.

Nissan just introduced the special Rock Creek Edition Pathfinder for 2019, and it includes features that’ll entice a wide variety of buyers. I recently drove the latest edition Pathfinder in Missoula, MT on both paved and unpaved roads, and experienced what this Rock Creek Edition had to offer.

This large three-row 4WD crossover has seating for seven and is poised for successful light off-pavement use with the whole family. I experienced asphalt, dirt, water crossings, as well as a bit of mud and snow in my time with this CUV.

What makes a Pathfinder a Rock Creek Edition? This special model’s exterior boasts dark-finished aluminum alloy wheels (inspired by the Titan pickup), blacked out exterior bits including plastic fender overflares and splash guards, a revised front fascia, unique Rock Creek badging, and an integrated hitch receiver with 7-pin wiring harness. Speaking of, the vehicle has a generous 6,000 lb. towing capacity. The Pathfinder’s exterior has a sleek look, which is devoid of chrome. The overflares, however, have an indent at the top of the wheel well. Not sure why, but it looks out of place.

Interior accoutrements include leather seats on SL models, or a cloth/leatherette combo on the lower trim level SV. The seats in both trim levels are comfortable and supportive with high-contrast orange stitching adding a nice pop of color to the interior. Orange is Nissan’s accent color of choice; it’s echoed in a few other spots inside The Rock Creek Edition comes out to a markup of only $995; if you were to price out the Rock Creek’s options separately, you’d be paying $2,310.

Buyers can outfit their Rock Creek Edition Pathfinders with different option packages. Those opting for SL models can add a premium package, which includes a few lux bits, such as a 13 speaker Bose sound system as well as power panoramic sunroof. Nice upgrades if you find yourself on a long road trip or stuck in rush hour traffic. The SV offers a tech package featuring NissanConnect with Navi and Sirius XM traffic, as well as heated front cloth seats, steering wheel, and side mirrors.

I appreciate Nissan’s center stack layout. The easy-to-use knobs are used for key elements, such as the infotainment’s volume control and tuning, as well as the climate control. Everything is in reach for both driver and passenger, and the on-screen navigation is adequately sized. The carbon fiber-esque accents are tasteful compared to some other manufacturer’s interiors I’ve seen. The center console also offers a quick-charge USB, USB-C, and DC port area, a couple of cup holders, and an easy-to-use dial for the company’s intelligent 4WD (i-4×4) system.

The i-4×4 system switches the rig from 2WD, to 4WD auto, or 4WD lock mode with the twist of a knob. The same dial also operates the hill start assist and hill descent features. The 4WD system came in handy when I encountered muddy sections of a trail. With the turn of the knob, 4WD engaged and I easily exited the slick terrain. This would’ve been a tricky spot in 2WD—the i-4×4 system worked well in this situation.

Power comes from Nissan’s 3.5-liter V-6 which puts out 284 horses and 259 ft-lbs of torque though the company’s XTRONIC CVT. My drive partner and I agreed that this Pathfinder didn’t feel sluggish or slow. It had sprightly acceleration and a smooth CVT—we were impressed, given the size of this rig. It passed slower vehicles with ease and cornered without too much body roll. The suspension absorbed bumps, ruts, and potholes with surprising comfort. This seven-seater didn’t feel large when driving, just a bit wide for my taste.

If you’re in the market for a seven-seat crossover that has an abundance of creature comforts, a minimalistic look, and has the capability for gravel, dirt, or occasional off-pavement fun, then the 2019 Rock Creek Edition Pathfinder should be on your test-drive list. MSRP, including destination fee, is $38,000.

OutdoorX4 Magazine – Promoting responsible vehicle-based adventure travel and outdoors adventure