Is the 2025 Pathfinder the Smartest Three-Row SUV for a Growing Fredericton Family?

Growing families in Fredericton face a specific transportation challenge: finding a vehicle that can comfortably seat eight passengers while maintaining the capability needed for Maritime road trips, weekend activities, and daily family logistics. The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder addresses this need directly with its new Platinum grade featuring second-row bench seating that accommodates up to eight family members, friends, or carpool passengers.

The Pathfinder's design centres on practical family functionality. With EZ FLEX second-row seats featuring LATCH AND GLIDE technology, parents can access the third row even when child safety seats are installed. This real-world consideration eliminates the frustration many families experience with three-row vehicles that become impractical when car seats are in use.

S Grade: Essential Family Transportation

The Pathfinder S provides core three-row capability with standard eight-passenger seating starting at $49,986. This grade includes the 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque, paired with Intelligent 4WD and a 9-speed automatic transmission. Towing capacity reaches 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs), suitable for small trailers or watercraft.

Standard features address basic family needs: Nissan Safety Shield 360, ProPILOT Assist for highway driving support, and three-zone automatic climate control to keep all passengers comfortable. The cargo area provides 470 litres with all seats upright, expanding to 2,280 litres when second and third rows fold down.

• Target families: Budget-conscious households needing basic eight-passenger transportation
• Best for: Local driving, occasional road trips, families prioritizing value over premium features
• Cargo capacity: 470 litres upright, 1,275 litres with third row folded, 2,280 litres maximum

SV Grade: Balanced Features and Value

The SV grade adds convenience features that make daily family life smoother while maintaining the eight-passenger configuration. Starting at $52,986, this trim includes power liftgate, heated front seats, and upgraded interior materials that better withstand the demands of active families.

Technology upgrades include a larger touchscreen interface, additional USB ports for device charging, and enhanced audio system. The transmission includes an oil cooler for improved towing capability, raising capacity to 2,722 kg (6,000 lbs) for larger trailers or recreational equipment.

• Target families: Active households needing towing capability and enhanced convenience features
• Best for: Families who regularly tow boats, trailers, or campers; those who value technology integration
• Key advantages: Improved towing capacity, power liftgate, heated seating

SL Grade: Premium Comfort for Growing Families

The SL grade provides luxury features while maintaining practical eight-passenger seating at $57,286. Leather-appointed seating includes heating for front and second-row outboard positions, while power adjustability for driver and passenger seats includes memory settings for shared vehicles.

Technology advances include ProPILOT Assist with Navi-link, head-up display, and Intelligent Around View Monitor for easier parking and maneuvering. Wireless device charging and additional power outlets support multiple devices during longer family trips.

• Target families: Households wanting premium comfort without sacrificing passenger capacity
• Best for: Families who frequently take longer trips, multiple-driver households, those prioritizing comfort features
• Standout features: Leather seating, memory settings, advanced driver assistance technology

Platinum Grade: Maximum Luxury with Seating Flexibility

The Platinum grade offers two seating configurations: eight-passenger bench seating ($61,186) or seven-passenger Captain's Chairs ($61,686). The bench configuration maintains maximum passenger capacity while adding premium materials and features throughout the cabin.

Semi-aniline leather with quilting, 20-inch alloy wheels, and Bronze Metallic interior trim create an upscale environment. Heated and cooled front seats, heated second-row seating, and ambient lighting enhance comfort for all passengers during Maritime's varying seasonal conditions.

• Target families: Households prioritizing luxury features while needing maximum seating capacity
• Best for: Families who want premium materials, advanced comfort features, and flexible seating options
• Configuration choice: Eight-passenger bench for maximum capacity or seven-passenger Captain's Chairs for enhanced second-row comfort

Comparing Pathfinder Trim Levels

Your New Pathfinder is Waiting

The 2025 Pathfinder's eight-passenger capability addresses the specific needs of growing Fredericton families who refuse to compromise between passenger capacity and family-friendly features. Whether you choose the value-focused S grade or the luxury-appointed Platinum, you're selecting a three-row SUV designed around real family life in New Brunswick. Contact our sales team at Fredericton Nissan in Fredericton to secure yours today and discover how the Pathfinder can simplify your family's transportation needs.