After unveiling last year’s V8-powered Xterra restomod, automotive enthusiast and builder Nicholas Scherr—better known as “Nismo Nick”—is returning to SEMA with two custom Nissan SUVs. The Trailfinder and Trackfinder mark the Pathfinder’s 40th anniversary by taking the platform in dramatically different directions.
Rather than start with the current model, Nismo Nick based both projects on the older R51 Pathfinder. It was the final Pathfinder generation built on a rugged ladder-frame chassis, before the nameplate moved to more car-like unibody construction.
As with last year’s Projext X, the new SUVs use parts from the current D41-generation Nissan Frontier to give their designs a more modern look inside and out. Donor components include the grille, LED headlights, front fenders, front doors, LED taillights, dashboard, center console, and door panels.
Both builds are also painted Ruby Slate Pearl, a color taken from the 2021 Nissan Maxima 40th Anniversary sedan.
The Trackfinder brings Nismo-inspired attitude to the Pathfinder, drawing inspiration from the GMC Typhoon. It has a lowered stance and rides on new black-finished forged 20-inch wheels. Visible behind their spoke design are cross-drilled and slotted brake rotors with red calipers.
Along with its Frontier front end, glossy black trim, and red accents, the Trackfinder features custom logos on the front doors, red and white side stripes, a Seibon carbon-fiber hood with a prominent scoop, a rear spoiler, and four tailpipes integrated into the rear bumper.
Its 4.0-liter V6 gains a Z1 Off-Road supercharger, custom carbon-fiber intake piping, a heat-shielded airbox, and an UpRev tune. Those upgrades nearly double output to 501 hp (374 kW / 508 PS). The SUV also uses an Xterra-sourced six-speed manual transmission equipped with a Centerforce clutch and flywheel.
The Trailfinder, meanwhile, was created as a “love letter” to V8-powered body-on-frame SUVs. Its defining feature is additional ground clearance, delivered by a lifted suspension and 35-inch Hankook Dynapro AT2 Xtreme tires mounted on white alloy wheels.
The Frontier front end is paired with Hammerhead Armor steel bumpers and rock sliders. The equipment list also includes a front winch, dual recovery shackles, a rear swing-out spare-tire carrier, and a roof rack topped with a tent. Extra lighting comes from Rigid Industries, while Trailfinder lettering appears on the roof rack, spare-wheel cover, and white grille surround.
Power comes from a 5.6-liter V8 fitted with a Z1 Off-Road intake and snorkel. The suspension uses the X-Pro Titan Swap Package, and stopping power is upgraded with a Z1 Off-road big brake kit. Inside, the Frontier-sourced dashboard is finished in red to match leather seats featuring tartan cloth inserts.
Pinnacle Nissan in Scottsdale, Arizona, supported the construction of both vehicles. The Trackfinder and Trailfinder will make their public debut at SEMA 2026 in Las Vegas.
Nismo Nick’s Trackfinder and Trailfinder transform the R51 Nissan Pathfinder in opposite directions. The Trackfinder combines a supercharged 4.0-liter V6, manual transmission, lowered stance, and 501 hp, while the Trailfinder uses a lifted suspension, 35-inch tires, off-road equipment, and a 5.6-liter V8. Both share Frontier-inspired styling, Ruby Slate Pearl paint, and debut at SEMA 2026 with support from Pinnacle Nissan.
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