Shortly after seeing it for the first time at the State Fair of Texas, we got some time behind the wheel of the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition at the Texas Auto Writer's Annual Texas Truck Rodeo.
This event had many different on- and off-road rigs on hand for us to check out, with this being one of the newest offerings at the event. Even with vehicles like the Ram 1500 TRX and the Jeep Wrangler, this Pathfinder Rock Creek was always out on the trail being driven by a new journalist.
Nissan has made the necessary changes to the current Pathfinder Platform to fit in with the modern rugged aesthetic of crossovers and SUVs right now, making this one of the most appealing in the lineup. We already tested the top-trim Platinum and were wowed by its value versus others in the class, but this $42,000 off-roader will appeal to many buyers looking for something a little more rugged.
Boasting an improved front approach angle, increased ride height, and more power, this Rock Creek checks a lot of boxes. All of that is sweetened by the tubular roof rack and Beadlock-style wheels wrapped in some 265/60R18 All-Terrain tires. This definitely looks the part. And while, yes, it is no longer a body-on-frame competitor to the Toyota 4Runner (also driven at this event), this new Rock Creek Pathfinder will make many modern American families happy and get them ready to plan their next epic adventure.
2023 Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition Features:
3.5L Direct-Injection V6 Engine
Intelligent 4x4 with Seven Drive and Terrain Modes
284 Horsepower (295 on Premium Fuel)
259 lb-ft of Torque (270 on Premium Fuel)
9-Speed Automatic Transmission
Seating for up to 8
Leatherette Seats
Heated Front Seats
EZ FLEX Second Row Seats with One-Touch Release
Tubular Roof Rack
Unique Front Facias
5/8" Lifted Ride Height over Other Trims
18-inch Beadlock Style Wheels and Tires
Off-Road Intelligent Around View Monitor Camera System
16.6 Cubic Feet of Storage Behind 3rd Row
45.0 Cubic Feet of Storage Behind 2nd Row
80.5 Cubic Feet of Storage with the 2nd Row Folded
8-inch Color Touchscreen Infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Proximity Key with Push Button Start
EPA Fuel Economy 20/23/21 (city/hwy/combined)
Starting MSRP $42,820
Price as tested: $45,395 (est.)
All images courtesy of Capturing the Machine.