2015 Nissan Pathfinder SL vs Platinum

If you’ve been following the three-decade history of the Nissan Pathfinder, then you are likely also aware that this is a model that has undergone major changes all throughout its run of production. It started as a rough-and-tumble off-roader, evolved into a muscular body-on-frame SUV, and today makes its home at the top of the Nissan lineup of crossover SUVs--quite the road it’s taken, right? Yet, many shoppers are finding that, within the model lineup, some features found in one trim level might suit them better than those found in another. And, in comparing the most highly-regarded trim levels--the 2015 Pathfinder SL and Platinum editions--drivers in the Houston area find two different approaches to customer satisfaction.

In the SL trim level, buyers are treated to a wide array of features that tip the scale firmly in the direction of “luxury”: remote start, a power liftgate, heated leather upholstery in the first two rows, crash mitigation technology, and a 120-volt plug-in power outlet, to name just a few. Furthermore, the SL trim may be specialized further by upgrading to the SL Tech or SL Premium packages. All in all, the SL trim level delivers most features drivers in the Houston area demand.

Yet, some desire a greater degree of sophistication still, which can be found in the 2015 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum, which we’ll discuss below.

Is the Pathfinder SL or the Pathfinder Platinum best for you?

Referring to the Pathfinder Platinum as “loaded” is a little like calling J.J. Watt “pretty intense.” It’s an understatement of the highest order. The Platinum features all of the add-ons found in the SL Tech and Premium editions--an 8-inch touchscreen with voice-controlled navigation, a 13-speaker Bose stereo system, and a power panoramic sunroof. To top it all off, the Platinum level sweetens the deal even further still. Those who choose this trim level enjoy features such as 20-inch alloy wheels, ventilated leather front seats, a power-adjustable heated steering wheel, and the rear-seat DVD entertainment system with dual display screen. For sheer “Wow-they-thought-of-everything” excellence, it truly doesn’t get any better than the 2015 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum.

Of course, as with all Pathfinders, it all starts under the hood, and this is where the two trim levels are strikingly similar. Both feature a 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to the responsive Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission, which delivers a muscular 260 horsepower and 27 highway mpg. And, since the Pathfinder truly aspires to be the vehicle capable of all travel functions, it is capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

The 2015 Nissan Pathfinder, in both the SL and Platinum trim level, is now available at Robbins Nissan, located north of Houston in Humble, Texas. To learn more about the many options and price points for both of these trims, we encourage you to visit our dealership today!