Nissan Pathfinder concepts are taking a rugged new direction at the 2026 SEMA Show, with two modified SUVs showcasing different possibilities for the nameplate. Built by enthusiast Nick Scherr, known as Nismo Nick, the Trailfinder and Trackfinder combine third-generation Pathfinder foundations with powerful engines and extensive performance upgrades.
Both concepts are based on the R51 Pathfinder and feature styling inspired by Nissan’s latest Frontier pickup. One is designed for off-road adventures with a V8 engine, while the other transforms the original V6-powered SUV into a supercharged performance machine with a manual transmission.
Nissan Pathfinder Trailfinder Features a V8 Engine
The off-road-focused Trailfinder is powered by Nissan’s VK56 5.6-liter V8, previously used in the earlier-generation Armada and Titan full-size pickup.
Although Scherr has not disclosed the engine’s output, the naturally aspirated V8 produces around 400 horsepower in stock form.
The SUV receives a series of upgrades, including Titan-swap X-Pro suspension components, a big brake kit, a performance intake and a snorkel. It also features upgraded wheels wrapped in massive 35-inch Hankook Dynapro AT2 Xtreme tires.
Heavy-duty front and rear bumpers, rock sliders and an extensive auxiliary lighting package further enhance the Trailfinder’s off-road setup.
Inside, the SUV features Katzkin leather, a burgundy dashboard and matching seat belts. The color pays tribute to the original Pathfinder, which celebrates its 40th anniversary next year.
Nissan Pathfinder Trackfinder Produces 501 HP at the Wheels
The Trackfinder takes a different approach, retaining the R51 Pathfinder’s original VQ40 4.0-liter V6 instead of switching to a V8.
A supercharger kit raises output to 501 horsepower at the wheels. Measured at the crankshaft, that figure likely represents more than double the original engine’s 270 horsepower.
The boosted V6 is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, replacing the factory automatic. A lowered suspension and 20-inch wheels fitted with Goodyear Eagle F1 All-Season tires complete the performance-focused build.
Both concepts are finished in Ruby Slate Pearl, a color featured on the 2021 Nissan Maxima 40th anniversary edition. Their front and rear designs also draw inspiration from the latest Frontier midsize pickup.
Could the Next Nissan Pathfinder Return to Body-on-Frame Construction?
The third-generation Pathfinder was the last to use body-on-frame construction before Nissan switched to a unibody platform in the early 2010s.
The next-generation Pathfinder, expected around 2029, could return to a more truck-like design and share its platform with the new Xterra, due around 2028.
Nissan may have already previewed that rugged direction with the boxy Terrano PHEV concept unveiled in April. Terrano was the name used for the Pathfinder in Japan and several other markets.
The current fifth-generation unibody Pathfinder could also remain on sale alongside the new rugged version, potentially receiving major updates to keep it fresh.
Nissan sold more than 100,000 Pathfinders in the United States alone last year, leaving room for the possibility of both versions continuing in the lineup.
Where to See the Nissan Pathfinder Concepts at SEMA
The 2026 SEMA Show runs November 3-6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Both the Trailfinder and Trackfinder concepts will be displayed in the Silver Lot.
With a V8-powered off-roader and a supercharged, manual-transmission performance SUV, the two concepts offer distinct interpretations of the classic Pathfinder as Nissan prepares for the nameplate’s next generation.
