Wider availability of leather upholstery marks 2006 for Nissan's midsize SUV. Pathfinder is a seven-passenger truck-type wagon with independent rear suspension. It offers four models: S, SE, SE Off-Road, and luxury-oriented LE. All have a 270-hp V6 and a 5-speed automatic transmission.

The SE Off-Road comes with 4-wheel drive; other models offer a choice of rear-drive or 4WD. LE's 4WD is Nissan's All-Mode system that can be left engaged on dry pavement. The 4WD on other models should not be left engaged on dry pavement. All 4WD Pathfinders have low-range gearing. ABS and an antiskid system are standard. Front side airbags and curtain side airbags that cover all seating rows are standard for LE, optional on other models. Pathfinders have a 50/50 split folding 3rd-row seat. Leather upholstery, standard on LE, is optional on SE Off-Road and newly available for SE. SE Off-Road also comes with all-terrain tires, Rancho-brand shock absorbers, additional chassis skid plates, and specific upholstery, plus Nissan's Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist systems. Other available Pathfinder features include power-adjustable pedals and DVD entertainment.