New Body-on-Frame Nissan Pathfinder to Appear in 2029
Nissan and Infiniti are betting on a body-on-frame construction, developing five new pickups and off-road vehicles. Among them, according to reports, will be the Frontier, Pathfinder, and Xterra, as well as their luxury versions.
Not much is known yet, but new data indicates that the body-on-frame Pathfinder could debut as early as mid-2029. This is logical, as the current model appeared in 2021 and recently received an update.
Two Different Models Under One Name
One might assume that the unibody model would be discontinued, but that is not the case. On the contrary, it is reported that this version will remain on sale alongside the new body-on-frame SUV.
This may confuse some people, but the two Pathfinders will be aimed at different buyers.
The unibody version is designed for families seeking comfort, while the new body-on-frame model will be positioned as a capable off-roader.
Distinct Design and Future Updates
The two models will look completely different. The unibody version is expected to receive another facelift in 2028 or 2029, allowing it to remain relevant.
The duration of the joint sales of both variants remains undetermined. It is reported that this matter is “flexible” and will depend on “sales.” If the “urban” version remains popular, it could stay on the market longer.
Technical Features and Pricing Policy
The body-on-frame Pathfinder is expected to be more expensive than its unibody counterpart, whose starting price is currently $39,900. Its design will be more “square” and reminiscent of a pickup truck.
At the start of sales, the model will receive a gasoline engine, and a hybrid version may appear later. This dual strategy allows Nissan to reach a wider audience by offering both a comfortable family crossover and a genuine body-on-frame off-roader under one name, which is a rather unusual move in the modern market. The success of this idea will depend on the clear positioning of each model and the buyers’ reaction to such an approach.