--- title: "The New China-Market Nissan Pathfinder Looks Better Than US Version" description: "The new Nissan Pathfinder Concept is a Chinese-market only car that looks much better than the U.S.-market Pathfinder." date: "2023-04-23" modified: "2023-04-23" authors: - name: "Nico DeMattia" job_title: "Contributing Writer" link: "https://www.thedrive.com/authors/nico-demattia" url: "https://www.thedrive.com/news/the-new-china-market-nissan-pathfinder-looks-better-than-us-version" categories: - "News" - "News by Brand" - "Nissan News" --- # The New China-Market Nissan Pathfinder Looks Better Than US Version ![]() The United States-market [Nissan Pathfinder ]()isn't a bad looking SUV. At worst, it's just a generic looking front-wheel-drive-based, three-row SUV. It isn't special but it isn't offensive, either. However, it could be so much better looking and [Nissan ]()just proved it by releasing this Chinese-market Pathfinder Concept. Despite being based on the current-generation Pathfinder, this new Chinese-market Pathfinder Concept looks completely different and it's so much better looking. Up front, the concept is far more modern and high-tech looking, with stacked horizontal LEDs flanking a simple grille made up of horizontal slats. Above the Nissan badge is a horizontal strip of gloss black trim, with an offset "Pathfinder" badge, making it one of the few cars with its model name presented on the front. ![]() *Pathfinder Concept* ![]() *U.S.-market Pathfinder* ![]() *Pathfinder Concept* ![]() *U.S.-market Pathfinder* ![]() *Pathfinder Concept* When you look at the current U.S.-market Pathfinder from the side, it has a disjointed shoulder line that's taller at each fender than it is between them. Whereas the concept features a crisp shoulder line that runs from the front fender, straight through the door handles, into the point of the taillight, which is much cleaner. Its rear digital-looking LED taillight bar is pretty sweet, too. Nissan didn't release any specs for the concept but since it's based on the current Pathfinder, a production version will likely be similar. The 3.5-liter 284-horsepower V6 will be an option, along with any other engines Nissan might offer in China. All engines will get a nine-speed automatic and either front- or all-wheel drive. ![]() *U.S.-market Pathfinder* ![]() *U.S.-market Pathfinder* Again, the U.S.-market Pathfinder isn't an ugly car but, compared to this concept, it's frumpy and cheap looking. I wish Nissan would bring this concept to the U.S., as it would instantly make the Pathfinder one of the better looking SUVs in its [segment](). But it seems like the concept was designed specifically for China, as Nissan's own press release says this concept blends "Chinese modern aesthetics with quintessential Nissan-ness." So don't expect U.S. Pathfinders to get these sharp looks anytime soon. *Got tips? Send 'em to tips@thedrive.com* ## Author Nico is a writer and reviewer from New Jersey who probably thinks he’s a lot funnier than he actually is. His love of cars began when he was just a kid playing Gran Turismo 3, grinding out enough race wins with a Mazda Miata to save up for an in-game RUF 911. That passion for small, lightweight sports cars drove his desire to learn more about the industry, get his hands on as many cars as he could, and bring those experiences to life on the page. He cut his teeth writing about BMWs, Volkswagens, and Audis, mostly, and has owned far too many of each. He’s on his fourth 3 Series sedan, but all of his old, cheap German cars have forced him to learn more about car maintenance than his mechanical capability can handle. Too many late nights have been spent scrambling to get a car running by morning so he could get to work. For some reason, he never seems to learn that old Bimmers probably aren’t the best daily drivers. But he loves more than just old German cars. He’ll gladly drive and discuss anything with four (or even three) wheels. Cars aren’t his only passions, though. Nico is also a big nerd and loves movies, video games, comic books, and cares far too much about the New York Giants. So don’t be surprised if you see football references or dumb, obscure movie quotes in any of his car reviews. ### Author social links [Instagram]() [LinkedIn]()