The original Nissan Pathfinder was one of the unexpectedly cool vehicles that spurred the SUV revolution. Introduced for the 1987 model year, the Hardbody pickup-based off-roader will be 40 years old next year, and Nissan is celebrating four decades of the Pathfinder with a special edition model.
The 2027 Nissan Pathfinder Special Edition gives a nod to the original WD21 with a few exclusive design cues emphasizing callbacks to the first-gen. The centerpiece of the SE is an exclusive two-tone burgundy interior, a direct and welcome homage to the 80s-tastic red cabins of the original first-generation models.
All modern Pathfinders have a subtle three-slot grille that pays homage to the WD21, but they have always been black. The 2027 SE features burgundy inserts to match the exclusive cabin color. The name “Pathfinder” is spelled out across the rear in burgundy letters as well.
On the original WD21, the SE trim was top-of-the-line. Back then, SE stood for Sport Edition, but now it means Special Edition. New SE emblems mimicking the font of the old WD21 SE badging can be found the C-pillars and embossed in the dashboard, along with a reminder that the Pathfinder was “Est. 1986”. The C-pillar, incidentally, was designed to resemble the distinct triangular pillar on the original Pathfinder 2-door.
While the white-on-red color combo is ideal for an old roadster like a Datsun Fairlady, it seems a bit odd for an off-roader. It’s too bad Nissan didn’t simply recreate the burgundy-on-burgundy color from the first-gen that inspired this new SE.
The 2027 model gets a few more creature comforts, like USB-C charging ports, panoramic moonroof, and second-row captain’s chairs with window sunshades. It also comes with a tow hitch receiver that can handle up to 6000 pounds, enough to haul a trailer and a Datsun Z or 510 race car.
There are no mechanical upgrades on the 2027 SE, so it soldiers on with Nissan’s ubiquitous 3.5-liter V6 generating 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. A 1987 Pathfinder 4×4 SE would have retailed for $15,594 when new, which translates to about $42,100 in 2026 dollars. For comparison, the 2027 SE AWD starts at $49,390.
Of course, Nissan has a precedent for heritage-inspired trucks. Back in 2022 they came out with a Frontier pickup sparked by the D21 Hardbody upon which the Pathfinder was based. The 2027 Pathfinder SE will hit showrooms in November 2026. It’s not quite a
Images courtesy of Nissan.
