2019 Nissan Pathfinder Prices: MSRP vs Dealer Invoice vs True Dealer Cost w/ Holdback

In 2017, the Pathfinder went through a significant upgrade, so there aren't too many upgrades for this year. The 2019 Nissan Pathfinder does have USB-C ports for front and rear passengers. Additionally, features once exclusive to the top-tier trims are now sprinkled throughout the lower levels.

The 3.5-liter V6 engine coupled with a smooth CVT automatic remain. The combination provides a healthy amount of power while also letting the Nissan tow up to 6,000 pounds.

The Pathfinder isn't a perfect vehicle, though, as there are some areas of weakness. For example, there's still no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity, and the graphics on the touchscreen are unimpressive. There's also less cargo space than some rivals and an overall harsher ride quality.

Regardless, the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder is classifiable as a good jack-of-all-trades ride. It has enough capability and seating for passengers to bring several riders along for an easy drive. If you're looking for an unassuming crossover with three rows and the ability to tow, the Pathfinder is absolutely worth a look.

What's New?

The 2019 Nissan Pathfinder is part of the fourth generation that was introduced in 2013. As mentioned, there are now standard USB-C ports on certain trim levels, as well as rear parking sensors. Other driver aids are now available on all trims except the base.

Styles
 
The 2019 Nissan Pathfinder is a three-row crossover SUV capable seating seven. The most popular trim so far seems to be the SL trim, since it has more convenient features than the S and SV trims. These include leather upholstery, a 360-degree parking camera, and a power liftgate.

The highest tier trim, Platinum, comes with even more features, but the 20-inch wheels make the ride a little rockier. If possible, stick with the 18-inch wheels.

Trims

The base level trim, S, comes with 18-inch alloy wheels and typical features for an SUV, like a rearview camera, tri-zone automatic climate control, and roof rails. The 60/40-split folding second-row seat reclines and slides, making it easy for passengers and cargo to get inside. Other features of convenience include Bluetooth, keyless ignition and entry, and dual USB ports for rear and front passengers. Finally, automatic emergency braking is a standard safety feature.

Upgrading to the SV gets you a leather-wrapped steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. For safety, there is rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and foglights. This trim offers the option for the All-Weather package, which includes heated side mirrors, front seats, and steering wheel. The Tech package gives you a trailer hitch receiver, a wiring harness, and driver safety aids.

Going up the ladder to the recommended SL trim, you'll get every feature from the Tech and All Weather packages, as well as a power liftgate, LED headlights, and leather upholstery. Rounding out the list of features are heated second-row seats, a power-adjustable passenger seat, and a top-down 360-degree camera system for parking. Not only that, but the interior trim merely is more beautiful.

If you opt for the SL, you can get the SL Premium package to add two inches to the wheels and get a panoramic sunroof. The Midnight Edition package also comes with 20-inch wheels, as well as roof rails, side mirrors, and other aesthetic upgrades.

Finally, there's the top-tier Platinum Pathfinder, offering all of the bundles from the lower tiers as standard fare. The only options you'll find here are the chance to upgrade to wood interior trim, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and ventilated front seats. You can also get an 8-inch headrest display.

Driving Impressions
 
When it comes to the three-row crossover SUV class, it's usually more critical to have competency and stability over speed. Still, that doesn't mean the crossover should be sloppy. Thankfully, the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder doesn't struggle in its middle ground, offering daily driving dynamics even with its torquey engine.

Still, the torque you can access from the motor is somewhat deceptive. It's going to take more power than that to make the bulky Pathfinder get moving. Left alone in two-wheel drive mode, there's too much wheelspin when you hit the gas pedal.

Under normal driving conditions, the brakes respond well. In an emergency situation, though, the pedals feel softer and struggle to inspire confidence. The brake dive and ABS noise are louder than desired, but the vehicle still stops in a respectable 124 feet.

The combination of a small steering wheel with high-level assist makes it easy to maneuver the Pathfinder at low speeds. It strongly self-centers, too, to the point where it's somewhat unnatural having to resist the steering wheel after you turn.

The Pathfinder leans a little when going around curves at higher speeds, but it never actually feels sloppy. It stays on a short leash, but it's not an upsetting ride at any point.

In fact, the 2019 Nissan Pathfinder may have the best CVT automatic on the market thanks to the smooth V6 engine beneath the hood. Accelerating moderately is effortless. Even though it's a large vehicle, the Pathfinder cruises down the neighborhood with as much ease as it does the highway.

Fuel Economy
 
S: 19 city / 26 hwy
SL: 19 city / 26 hwy
SV: 19 city / 26 hwy
Platinum four-wheel drive: 19 city / 26 hwy

How to Calculate The Dealer Cost of a Nissan Pathfinder

Formula for Calculating Dealer Cost:

• Example: Base Nissan Pathfinder invoice price + the dealer Invoice price of all the options + destination - Holdback = Total Dealer Cost.
• What is Holdback? A hidden amount that manufacturers give back to a dealer. It is a percentage of the MSRP or the Invoice price.

Total Dealer Cost - Rebate and Incentive + Taxes / Licensing Fees = True Dealer Cost. (You can get rebates and incentives here)

Note: All Nissan Pathfinder MSRP, invoice and dealer cost dollar figures above are approximate amounts. Prices are subject to change without notice.

A note about rebates: Most rebates are subtracted from the "on the road" figure. In most cases, you can have the rebate if you are arranging your own financing or you are paying cash. If you decide to use the manufacturer’s low interest financing, you do not usually get the rebate. Ask your dealer for details.