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The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder is a popular vehicle in the midsize SUV segment. It’s a safe, reliable SUV that comes at an affordable price. For most people, it’s a no-brainer to purchase the Pathfinder. However, deciding which version of the spacious SUV is the best option can be challenging. In fact, experts disagree on the best 2023 Nissan Pathfinder trim. Should you purchase the S, SV, SL, or another model in the lineup?

A 2022 Nissan Pathfinder driving down a wooded road, experts disagree on the midsize SUV's best trim.
The 2022 Pathfinder is all-new from the ground-up | Nissan Media

According to Edmunds, the SL model is the most popular trim in the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder lineup. Starting two slots above the base model at $42,715, it’s well-equipped but remains more affordable than other trims. As a result, it’s clear that consumers think the SL trim is the best version of the Pathfinder overall. However, not every expert believes customers are purchasing the best trim for the Nissan SUV.

Best Pathfinder trim, according to Edmunds

What is rhe best 2023 Nissan PAthfinder trim?
2023 Nissan Pathfinder | Nissan USA

First, the experts at Edmunds recommend the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder SV mid-tier model. One slot below the most popular SV, the SL starts at $39,115. The publication suggests it because “it adds useful features such as heated seats, heated exterior mirrors, and adaptive cruise control. Additionally, it mentions the Rock Creek edition is worth a look if you’re interested in doing a bit of light off-roading.

We find it difficult to argue against Edmunds with its suggestion. Building on the S base mode, the SV trim has remote start, heated exterior mirrors, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Additionally, this model gains access to the SV Premium package. It contains a panoramic sunroof, a power liftgate, a tow-prep kit with a 6,000-pound capacity, and second-row captain’s chairs with a removable center console.

Another expert disagrees

Next, another prominent expert, Car and Driver, disagree with Edmunds about the best 2023 Nissan Pathfinder trim. C/D suggests buying the most popular model, the SL. It says the step up from the SV trim adds a larger infotainment system, a 360-degree camera system, and wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity. As a result, it becomes a much more luxurious overall midsize SUV. Moreover, the available SL Premium package adds 20-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, a Bose stereo system, heated rear seats, and wireless smartphone charging for $2,900.

Another reason to get the SL over the SV trim is the towing capacity. With the SL Premium package, owners unlock all necessary items to upgrade to the 6,000-pound towing capacity. For $42,715, the most popular Nissan Pathfinder is only a few thousand dollars more than the Edmunds-suggested SV trim.

The best 2023 Nissan Pathfinder trim

In conclusion, we find it difficult to disagree with either expert’s opinion. On the one hand, the SV trim provides most of the essential features without breaking the bank. On the other, the SL model isn’t much more expensive but significantly heightens the level of luxury. In the end, the best 2023 Nissan Pathfinder trim is the one to better fit your budget. The most valuable features are included with these two trims, so skip the others for the mid-tier models.

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Section Editor - SUVs

Tim Harding

Having spent half a decade managing the reconditioning and marketing processes for upwards of 400 vehicles monthly, Tim is no stranger to the automotive industry. He has a deep understanding of the many different types of vehicles on the road today and brings to the table valuable insight into the industry itself.

Tim earned an Associate’s in English and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a Marketing specialization from Ashford University. Tim joined MotorBiscuit as an Autos Writer in 2021, and his work can also be seen at Gamepur, Overtime Heroics, and Pro Game Guides.

Tim is most inspired by the constantly changing automotive industry. He looks forward to a future when cars, particularly electric vehicles, look and operate completely differently than they do today. Tim’s content draws on this inspiration while also providing MotorBiscuit readers with useful consumer advice.