Nissan Pathfinder 2021 is the fourth generation of the popular crossover, which returned the model to its roots after experiments with single-wheel drive versions. The car combines a spacious interior, powerful 3.5 liter V6 and front/all-wheel drive, making it a versatile choice for family trips and light off-roading. The model was not officially sold in Russia, but was actively imported from the USA and the UAE, which created a unique market with a wide selection of trim levels.
In this review we will look at key differences between the 2021 restyled version and its predecessors, let's analyze the reliability of the engine VQ35DD, we will estimate the actual fuel consumption and give practical advice on choosing a used vehicle. We will pay special attention to typical problems that appear after 100,000 km and compare Pathfinder with main competitors - Toyota Highlander And Hyundai Santa Fe.
Technical characteristics and engines
In 2021 Nissan Pathfinder offered with a single gasoline engine - 3.5 liter V6 VQ35DD power 284 hp (paired with CVT Xtronic). This motor is known for its reliability, but has a number of nuances when operating in Russian conditions. For example, recommended fuel - AI-95, however, many owners successfully use 92nd gasoline without losing service life.
The transmission is a simulated 7-speed CVT, which has been criticized for its rubbery response but praised for its smoothness. Four-wheel drive Intelligent 4WD connects automatically when slipping, but is not intended for serious off-road use. The table below shows the key parameters:
| Parameter | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Engine | VQ35DD 3.5 V6, 284 hp |
| Gearbox | CVT Xtronic with manual mode |
| Drive | Front or Intelligent 4WD |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.5–13.0 l/100 km |
| Trunk volume | 453 l (1,680 l with seats folded) |
⚠️ Attention: When buying used Pathfinder Be sure to check the service history of the CVT. CVT oil changes are required every 60,000 km, not 100,000, as the dealer claims - this is critical for the durability of the unit.
- Petrol V6
- Turbocharged 4-cylinder
- Diesel
- Hybrid
- Electro
Options and prices on the Russian market
In 2021 Nissan Pathfinder in the USA it was offered in 4 trim levels: S, SV, SL, Platinum. Versions are more common on the Russian market SL And Platinum - they are equipped with:
- 🔹 Adaptive cruise control (ProPILOT Assist in top versions)
- 🔹 Leather interior with heated/ventilated front seats
- 🔹 360 degree camera and the system Around View Monitor
- 🔹 Dual-zone climate control with separate controls for rear passengers
Prices for used copies (2021 onwards) in 2026:
- 💰 S/SV (mileage 50–80 thousand km): 2.8–3.5 million rubles.
- 💰 SL (mileage 30–60 thousand km): 3.5–4.2 million rubles.
- 💰 Platinum (mileage up to 30 thousand km): 4.5–5.5 million rubles.
⚠️ Attention: Be careful with cars imported from the UAE - many of them have “twisted” mileage. Check history via Carfax or AutoCheck, even if the seller provides “clean” documents.
Condition of the variator (slips, jerks)|History of oil change in the CVT|Operation of the all-wheel drive system|Condition of the suspension (knocking, play)|Electronics (cameras, parking sensors)-->
Pros and cons of the model
Benefits Nissan Pathfinder 2021:
- 👍 Spacious salon with comfortable seats in all rows (accommodates 7 passengers)
- 👍 Reliable engine VQ35DD with a resource of 300+ thousand km with proper maintenance
- 👍 Rich equipment even in basic configurations (for example, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto from 2020)
- 👍 Good sound insulation at the level of premium crossovers
Disadvantages:
- 👎 High fuel consumption in the city (up to 15 l/100 km)
- 👎 Expensive service CVT and all-wheel drive
- 👎 Weak suspension — shock absorbers and stabilizer struts fail at 80–100 thousand km
- 👎 Low liquidity on the secondary market due to the lack of official sales in Russia
If you plan to drive off-road, install crankcase and variator protection - the standard plastic protection cannot withstand even light impacts.
Comparison with competitors: Pathfinder vs Highlander vs Santa Fe
Main competitors Nissan Pathfinder 2021 — Toyota Highlander (hybrid) and Hyundai Santa Fe (turbo). The table below shows the key differences:
| Parameter | Nissan Pathfinder | Toyota Highlander | Hyundai Santa Fe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5 V6 (284 hp) | 2.5 hybrid (243 hp) | 2.5 turbo (281 hp) |
| Fuel consumption | 12–15 l/100 km | 6–8 l/100 km | 9–11 l/100 km |
| Price (2021, secondary) | 3.0–5.5 million rub. | 4.0–6.5 million rub. | 2.8–4.5 million rub. |
| Advantage | Space, power | Economical, reliable | Price, guarantee |
Pathfinder wins against Santa Fe in terms of comfort and dynamics, but loses Highlander in economy. If the priority is reliability and low consumption, it is better to consider hybrid Toyota. If you need space and power at a reasonable price - Nissan will be the best choice.
Why is the Pathfinder cheaper than the Highlander aftermarket?
The main reason is the lack of official sales in Russia, which complicates the service and reduces demand. In addition, Toyota has a reputation for being a more reliable brand, which keeps prices high even for used models.
Typical problems and how to avoid them
Despite the reliability of the engine, Pathfinder There are “diseases” worth knowing about in 2021:
- CVT Xtronic: With a mileage of over 100 thousand km, jerks and delays when switching are possible.
Solution: oil change every 60 thousand km (original NS-3). - Suspension: Knocks in the front suspension are usually associated with wear on the stabilizer struts or control arm silent blocks.
Solution: replacement with MOOG or Mevotech. - Electronics: Frequent camera glitches Around View due to oxidation of contacts.
Solution: cleaning connectors or replacing the control unit.
⚠️ Attention: If you feel the variator "kick" during acceleration, this may be a sign of wear on the belt or cones. Ignoring the problem leads to complete failure of the CVT (repair will cost 300–500 thousand rubles).
Regular servicing of the CVT and suspension is key to long-lasting Pathfinder service. Saving on consumables will result in expensive repairs.
Owner reviews: real operating experience
On forums (for example, drive2.ru or nissan-club.ru) owners Pathfinder 2021 celebrates:
- 🗣️ "Great family car — fits 3 child seats in the second row without any problems. The trunk is huge, even with a stroller there is room."
- 🗣️ "Highway consumption - 9.5 l/100 km, but in the city it grows to 14–15 liters. For a V6 it's ok, but a little expensive."
- 🗣️ "The suspension is soft, but after 80 thousand km I had to change almost everything - shock absorbers, struts, silent blocks. Spare parts are expensive."
Negative reviews are more often associated with CVT And at the cost of service. For example, changing the oil in a CVT costs 15–20 thousand rubles. (with filters), and electronics diagnostics are even more expensive. However, those who monitor the car note that Pathfinder serves faithfully without serious breakdowns.
Tips for choosing a used 2021 Pathfinder
When buying used Nissan Pathfinder please note:
- Mileage: Optimally - up to 60 thousand km. Cars with a mileage of 100+ thousand km require investment in suspension and CVT.
- Country of origin: Give preference to American versions (they are better equipped) and avoid cars from the UAE with an unclear history.
- Body condition: Check the bottom for corrosion - Nissan doesn't process it as carefully as Toyota.
- Documents: Make sure that customs clearance was carried out legally (there is a declaration and PTS).
⚠️ Attention: If the seller refuses to provide a report Carfax or AutoCheck, this is a reason to be wary. Often, cars after an accident or with a problematic history are sold under the guise of “clean” cars.
The best time to buy a Pathfinder is fall or winter, when demand for crossovers drops and prices drop by 5-10%.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the 2021 Nissan Pathfinder
Is it possible to drive on 92 gasoline?
AI-95 is officially recommended, but many owners use 92 without consequences. However, when driving aggressively on low-octane fuel, detonation is possible, which reduces engine life. If you refuel with 92, add an additive (for example, Liqui Moly Octane Plus).
How often do you change the oil in the variator?
The manufacturer indicates an interval of 100 thousand km, but in Russian conditions (traffic jams, low temperatures) CVT oil needs to be changed every 60 thousand km. Use only original oil Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3 - analogues can cause damage.
How much does Pathfinder maintenance cost per year?
With a mileage of 15 thousand km per year, the costs will be:
- 🔧 Maintenance (oils, filters): 20–25 thousand rubles.
- 🔧 Spare parts (shock absorbers, brake pads): 30–50 thousand rubles.
- 🔧 Unforeseen repairs (electronics, suspension): 20–100 thousand rubles.
Total: 70–175 thousand rubles. per year. It's more expensive than Toyota RAV4, but cheaper than premium crossovers.
Which package is the most profitable?
Optimal price/equipment ratio - SL. It includes:
- 🔹 Leather interior with heating/ventilation
- 🔹 360-degree camera
- 🔹Adaptive cruise control
Version Platinum adds sunroof, premium audio system Bose and ventilated seats, but the overpayment is 800–1 million rubles, which is not always justified.
Can you tow a trailer?
Yes, Pathfinder The 2021 is rated to tow up to 2,268 kg (braked). However, during regular use with a trailer:
- 🔹 Install an additional variator cooling radiator.
- 🔹 Check the CVT oil every 40 thousand km.
- 🔹 Avoid sharp starts - this reduces the transmission resource.