Nissan announced a new off-road-prepped variant of the Pathfinder for the 2023 model year, called “Rock Creek”. The new SUV will debut at the New York International Auto Show with a slightly more powerful engine, beefed-up suspension, and subtle visual tweaks to communicate its rugged nature.
The new Pathfinder Rock Creek is
distinguished by the black-themed V-motion grille, the Rock Creek badging, a
tubular roof rack that can hold up to 100 kg of gear, and a set of
18-inch beadlock-style rims shod in grippy all-terrain tires. The model is
available in six colors and four two-tone combinations.
The new rugged
Pathfinder is fitted with an off-road-tuned suspension. The Rock Creek sits
slightly higher from the ground compared to the rest of the Pathfinder range,
thanks to a 5/8-inch (15.88 mm) lift. This is not as impressive as the 2-inch
lift kit of the Project Overland Pathfinder concept that debuted in SEMA last
year, but it is certainly an improvement over the standard variants.
More importantly, the 3.5-liter V6 engine
produces 295 hp and 366 Nm of torque, which is
slightly more than the standard 284 hp and 351 Nm thanks to a revised fuel mapping. Faithfull to its adventurous character, the
Rock Creek is exclusively available with Nissan’s Intelligent AWD system, and
the nine-speed automatic transmission. The standard tow hitch receiver and
harness allow a 6,000-pound maximum towing capacity.
Inside the cabin, we find a combination of
leatherette and fabric upholstery, Rock Creek badges embroidered on the seats
and central armrest, plus orange stitching all around. Standard equipment
includes the Intelligent Around View Monitor with an Off-Road Mode, and
captain’s chairs for the second row which means that the Rock Creek is only
available as a seven-seater.
The first deliveries of the 2023 Nissan
Pathfinder Rock Creek are scheduled for late summer 2022 together with the
entire MY 2023 range, following the official debut of the SUV at the New York
International Auto Show between April 15 and 24.
