The refreshed 2026 Nissan Pathfinder is set to make a comeback in the Canadian market this spring, following a temporary pause in deliveries earlier this year. The hiatus was a direct result of the 25% tariffs imposed on American-made vehicles imported into Canada. While the SUV boasts updated styling and technology, Canadian buyers should prepare for a higher price point as Nissan navigates the challenging tariff landscape.
Navigating Tariffs and Market Strategy
The return of the Tennessee-built Pathfinder comes with a significant financial hurdle. Christian Meunier, Chairman of Nissan Americas, acknowledged the difficulty, stating, "A 25-per-cent tariff is a hard pill to swallow. We're going to have to adjust a few things." He expressed hope for a resolution in the ongoing USMCA negotiations in the coming months.
Steve Rhind, President of Nissan Canada Inc., confirmed that a price increase is likely if the tariff remains. "If it stays at 25 per cent there will be a bit of a price increase – we're working with our dealers on how we adjust prices and the incentives," Rhind said. The company's primary goal is to maintain competitiveness despite lower expected sales volume. Nissan has already absorbed the tariff cost on a small number of Infiniti QX60 models that have recently arrived, signaling the Pathfinder, Frontier, and Murano will follow with adjusted pricing when production for Canada resumes in spring.
When questioned about moving production to Japan to avoid tariffs, Meunier emphasized Nissan's philosophy of building where it sells. "It makes more sense to produce in the U.S. rather than the other side of the planet, long term," he explained, highlighting benefits like minimized supply chain risks and logistical issues.
What's New in the 2026 Pathfinder
The 2026 model year brings a host of updates to keep pace with fierce rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot. Key technological upgrades include a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an improved wireless phone charger. The new charger features a cooling fan to prevent overheating and uses magnetic positioning to keep devices securely in place.
A standout innovation is the Invisible Hood View on the Intelligent Around View Monitor. This system creates a virtual view through the vehicle's front end, aiding drivers in precise wheel placement for tasks like aligning with car wash tracks or navigating tight curbs.
Under the hood, the Pathfinder retains its 3.5-litre V6 engine from the 2025 model, producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. Notably, Nissan is not offering a hybrid variant for 2026, unlike some competitors. The powertrain is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and offers a robust towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds. Drivers can select from seven driving modes via a rotary dial: Auto, Eco, Tow, Sport, Sand, Mud, and Rut.
Comfort, Space, and Final Verdict
Inside, the Pathfinder focuses on space and comfort. Visibility is enhanced by thin A-pillars and larger rear-quarter windows, reducing the claustrophobic feel for third-row passengers. While seating is available for up to eight, the Rock Creek trim features second-row captain's chairs for a seven-passenger layout. Access to the third row is facilitated by tip-and-slide second-row seats, though it can still be a tight maneuver. Once back there, however, the space is surprisingly roomy for adults.
Cargo space is practical, with 470 litres of storage behind the third row. Folding the second and third rows creates a substantial flat load area. A motion-activated liftgate is standard.
Styling updates for 2026 include revised front and rear fascias with a more prominent grille, and new colour options like Baltic Teal. The Rock Creek trim adds black roof rails, 20-inch wheels, and distinctive red accents.
The final verdict hinges on pricing, which will be announced closer to the spring launch. The 2025 model started at $50,375 including freight, and the 2026 version will exceed that. The Pathfinder remains a solid, tech-forward SUV with excellent towing, but its market success will be tested by its final price against increasingly hybrid-focused competitors.
