Nissan today unveiled the new 2017 Pathfinder, which the company says is designed with “more adventure capability, a freshened exterior look and enhanced safety and technology.” The new version of the seven-passenger SUV will be offered in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive options in grade levels S, SV, SL and Platinum.

“The Nissan Pathfinder has an amazing heritage as one of the modern pioneers in the SUV segment, with more than 30 years in the marketplace, yet we are always looking forward – as the Pathfinder name implies,” said Michael Bunce, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc. “For 2017, Pathfinder receives much more than your typical facelift. It now offers more power, towing capability, improved driving dynamics and new available driver assistance features –more of what you need for safe, comfortable every day and weekend family adventures.”

Nissan says the Pathfinder’s new 3.5-liter V6 engine features more power, torque and towing capacity, featuring more than 50 percent new or new-to-Pathfinder engine parts and components – including combustion chamber design, pistons, intake manifold and e-VTC (fully electronic on intake). The compression ratio has also been raised to 11.0:1 (from the previous 10.3:1).

The engine’s new Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) system is the same found on the all-new Armada SUV, is aid to provide better wide-open throttle performance and improved fuel economy and emissions performance. Horsepower for the new V6 increases to 284 hp (from the previous 260 hp) and torque is now rated at 259 lb-ft (up from 240 lb-ft). With the performance increases, Nissan was still able to retain the same fuel economy as the previous model at 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined (2WD models, estimated).

All 2017 Pathfinder models are equipped with Nissan’s third-generation Xtronic transmission (similar to that utilized in the sporty Nissan Maxima). The Xtronic transmission includes D-Step Logic Control, which simulates shifts, giving a more natural acceleration feeling.

Maximum towing capacity has increased by 1,000 pounds to a best-in-class* 6,000 pounds (when properly equipped) due to the enhanced powertrain and body reinforcements added around the trailer hitch area. The advanced Xtronic transmission design also helps keep engine rpm optimized while towing without the typical “hunting for a gear” feel.

“As part of Nissan’s ongoing, extensive research into consumers’ real-world towing activities, we’ve found that mid-size SUV owners really want the ability to tow two-axle recreational trailers, whether for watercraft, flatbeds or campers,” said Bunce. “The 2017 Pathfinder now fits most of those needs with the added confidence of its standard 6,000-pound towing rating.”