Sure…you could easily pay thousands more for the same capability that Nissan gives us in their new Rock Creek edition.
It pretty much just depends on if it's more important to you to pull up to the club with a prestigious logo on your grill…or if the "pullin' up" that you favor is pulling up to lakes or mountain trails as efficiently as possible while towing your campers or toys.
But hey…Nissan didn't forget style. Based on the glances I got in the week I spent with the Rock Creek, this new "Off-Road" Pathfinder will get you those envious sideways glances, too!
So what are you really looking for in a new vehicle?
If it's room for up to 7 or 8…the three-row Pathfinder delivers.
And if you need to add genuine off-road capability...Nissan's new Rock Creek edition checks those boxes, too. Let's start with Nissan's 3.5 liters, 295 HP V6 and 9-speed automatic. That combo will let you tow up to 6,000 lbs without breaking a sweat…and will still get you 20 City and 23 Hwy MPG's.
Traction shouldn't be an issue with Nissan's Intelligent 4-wheel drive and 7 different drive and terrain modes, including Sport, Snow, Sand, Mud and Eco. Plus, you'll get trailer sway control and an all-around view to ease towing and parking.
Then top it all off with a 5/8 inch lift, off-road suspension, 18" Beadlock style wheels with all-terrain tires and a big rugged-looking tubular roof rack that'll hold 220 lbs and exclusive Rock Creek trim and badging both inside and out.
The Rock Creek has comfortable and cleanable textured faux suede heated front seating with orange trim and second-row captains' chairs, and a motion-activated tailgate. Add in just about all of today's expected warnings and alerts, and you've got a roomy and capable vehicle for right around 45 thousand.
But what if you don't have a trailer…a boat…or a couple of bikes? What if you live in the city and have a regular commute? Why, then, would I need an off-road ride like Nissan's Rock Creek, you might ask?
Because if your "normal commute" is starting to look like mine…with potholes and worn-out asphalt seemingly everywhere…I'm here to tell ya' that you'll feel a lot more confident soaking up those bumps with Rock Creek's big 265 / 60 18" all-terrain tires. And you'll look pretty good doing it, too!











