I spent the weekend with the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder, and after a couple days of driving it around, I can definitely see why this SUV is such a popular option for families and anyone needing extra space.

My weekend mainly consisted of running errands, which honestly made for the perfect real-life test drive. Right away, one of the biggest things that stood out was how spacious it felt. There’s room everywhere, and if you’re someone who always has a drink with you, you’ll appreciate the number of cup holders throughout the cabin.

The weather changed a lot over the weekend, so I got to enjoy both the heated and cooled front seats. Saturday was warm enough for the cooled seats, while Sunday cooled off enough that the heated seats came in handy. Those little comfort features make a bigger difference than you think.

One of my favorite features was the panoramic moonroof. It made the cabin feel even brighter and more open, adding to the already roomy feel of the Pathfinder. 

I also loved the large touchscreen. I use Apple Maps all the time, and Apple CarPlay connected quickly and smoothly every time I got in.

For an SUV on the larger side, the Pathfinder was surprisingly easy to drive thanks to the excellent camera system. The camera views were clear and sharp, which made parking and maneuvering much less stressful. It also drove smoothly and quietly, making everyday errands feel a little more relaxed.

My roommate Sarah rode along with me, and she immediately noticed how spacious the second row was. She liked the thoughtful storage compartments, roomy layout, and the built-in shades for the second-row windows. The second row is also packed with charging ports, heated seats, and even more cup holders. Nissan clearly thought through what passengers actually want back there.

Another standout was the cargo space. With the third row folded down, the trunk area is impressively large, giving you plenty of room for groceries, luggage, sports gear, or whatever the weekend calls for.

This one was finished in Baltic Teal Pearl with a Charcoal Premium Leather interior, which gave it a sharp look inside and out.

After spending the weekend with it, I’d recommend the Pathfinder to growing families, anyone looking for strong value in a three-row SUV, or someone who wants comfort and practicality without sacrificing style. It’s easy to live with, comfortable to drive, and ready for just about anything.