Hey guys! Let's dive into the awesome 2016 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum. If you're looking for a capable, family-friendly SUV that doesn't skimp on features, the Platinum trim is where it's at. We're talking about a seriously well-equipped ride that offers a ton of value, especially if you can find one on the used market today. This isn't just your average SUV; it's designed to handle your daily commute, weekend adventures, and everything in between with comfort and style. Nissan really stepped up its game with this generation of the Pathfinder, making it a compelling choice for anyone needing space, versatility, and a touch of luxury.

Engine and Performance: Powering Your Adventures

Under the hood, the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum packs a solid punch with its standard 3.5-liter V6 engine. This powerhouse delivers a healthy 260 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. Now, that might not sound like a supercar, but for a family SUV, it's more than enough oomph to get you moving. Whether you're merging onto the highway, climbing a steep hill, or towing a small trailer, this V6 handles it with confidence. One of the standout features is its continuously variable transmission (CVT). While some folks are wary of CVTs, Nissan's Xtronic CVT in the Pathfinder is tuned for smooth acceleration and, importantly, impressive fuel economy. We're talking about ratings around 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for the 2WD models, and a respectable 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway for the 4WD variants. This makes the Pathfinder a surprisingly efficient choice for its size, saving you money at the pump on those long road trips. Plus, the ride quality is fantastic. It's tuned for comfort, soaking up bumps and imperfections in the road, making for a serene cabin experience. The steering is light and easy, which is great for maneuvering in tight parking lots, though some enthusiasts might crave a bit more feedback on winding roads. For its intended purpose as a comfortable family hauler, the performance and efficiency are spot on.

Interior Comfort and Luxury: A Platinum Experience

Stepping inside the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum, you'll immediately notice why it's the top-tier trim. Nissan loaded this bad boy with premium features designed to make every drive a pleasure. The seats are a major highlight. Up front, you get heated and ventilated leather-appointed seats, which are a godsend in both scorching summer heat and chilly winter mornings. The driver's seat also boasts a power-adjustable lumbar support, ensuring maximum comfort even on the longest journeys. And get this, even the second-row seats are heated! That's a fantastic touch for keeping your passengers cozy. The cabin itself is spacious and thoughtfully laid out. With seating for up to seven passengers, there's plenty of room for the whole family and maybe even a few friends. The second-row seats offer a generous amount of legroom and can slide and recline, making it easy to get in and out and find that perfect seating position. Nissan's innovative EZ Flex Seating System is a real game-changer here. The second-row seats can tip and slide forward even with a child's car seat installed, which makes accessing the third row so much easier. Speaking of the third row, while it's best suited for kids or shorter adults on shorter trips, it's still more usable than in many competitors. Cargo space is also excellent. With the third-row seats folded down, you get a substantial 47.8 cubic feet of storage, and with both the second and third rows folded, you're looking at a massive 79.8 cubic feet. Perfect for hauling furniture, camping gear, or all the stuff that comes with a family vacation. The overall ambiance is one of quiet refinement, with soft-touch materials and a design that feels upscale and inviting.

Technology and Infotainment: Staying Connected and Entertained

When you're behind the wheel of the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum, you're surrounded by tech designed to keep you informed, entertained, and safe. The centerpiece is the 8-inch color touchscreen display, which serves as the hub for your infotainment system. It's pretty intuitive and easy to navigate, controlling everything from your music and navigation to your phone settings. Standard on the Platinum trim is the Nissan Navigation System, which includes voice recognition – super handy for inputting destinations without taking your hands off the wheel. It also features SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link, giving you real-time updates on traffic conditions, weather forecasts, and even gas prices. For your audio pleasure, you get a premium Bose 13-speaker audio system. Seriously, guys, this sound system is phenomenal. It delivers crisp highs, deep lows, and fills the cabin with rich, immersive sound, making your favorite playlists sound absolutely epic. Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and streaming audio are also standard, so you can easily connect your smartphone. And let's not forget about convenience features. You've got SiriusXM Satellite Radio for endless entertainment options, dual USB ports for charging your devices, and an auxiliary audio input. Plus, the tri-zone automatic climate control ensures everyone in the car can set their preferred temperature. In the Platinum trim, you also get features like push-button ignition and intelligent key access, making getting in and going a breeze. It’s all about making your driving experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind on Every Journey

Nissan understands that safety is paramount, especially in a family vehicle like the Pathfinder. The 2016 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your loved ones. Standard on this trim are things like Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist, all working together to ensure you can stop effectively when needed. You also get Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS), which helps you maintain control of the vehicle in slippery conditions or during sudden maneuvers. But where the Platinum really shines is with its advanced driver-assistance systems. While some of these were optional or part of packages on lower trims, they are more readily available on the Platinum. You'll find features like a Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system, which alerts you if a vehicle is detected in your blind spot, and a Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), which is invaluable when backing out of parking spaces. Many Platinum models also came with a Moving Object Detection (MOD) system integrated with the rearview camera, providing an extra layer of awareness. The standard rearview monitor makes parking easier, and for even better visibility, some might have the Around View Monitor, which uses multiple cameras to give you a bird's-eye view of your surroundings – seriously a lifesaver in tight spots! Six airbags are standard throughout the cabin, including front, side-impact, and roof-mounted curtain airbags for all rows. LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) systems are also present in the second and third rows for secure installation of child seats. Nissan's commitment to safety means you can drive with confidence, knowing that the Pathfinder Platinum is looking out for you.

The 2016 Pathfinder Platinum: A Smart Used Buy?

So, is the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum still a good buy today? Absolutely, guys! If you're in the market for a comfortable, feature-packed, and versatile three-row SUV, this Pathfinder is definitely worth considering. The Platinum trim offers a luxury experience without the brand-new price tag. You get all the creature comforts like premium leather, heated and ventilated seats, a top-notch Bose sound system, and advanced safety tech that you'd expect in a much more expensive vehicle. Its V6 engine provides ample power, and the CVT, while not for everyone, offers good fuel economy for its class. The spacious and flexible interior, coupled with its smooth ride, makes it an ideal choice for families. When shopping for a used one, always do your homework. Check the vehicle's history report, get a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic, and pay attention to any recalls or known issues for the 2016 model year. But overall, the 2016 Pathfinder Platinum represents a fantastic blend of utility, comfort, and value, making it a smart decision for savvy shoppers.