What are the Nissan Rock Creek models?

Rock Creek is a relatively new name at Nissan. It started as a Pathfinder model and has now spread to the 2025 Rogue model lineup. Like the Pro4X on the Frontier line, Rock Creek designates the most off-road capable trim level of each crossover model line. Designed to still be practical and comfortable for everyday use, they aren’t ready to crawl over rockpiles or leap in the air, but if you plan on taking your crossover off the pavement for both the beaten and unbeaten path, a Pathfinder or Rogue Rock Creek could be for you. The best way to find out is a visit to Dick Smith Nissan in Lexington, but let us tell you what they are about first.

Pathfinder Rock Creek

The 2023 Pathfinder was the first to introduce the Rock Creek name. The current Rock Creek model is available only with all-wheel drive. The engine is the same 3.5-liter V6 as on the rest of the lineup, but power is bumped up by 11 horsepower for a total of 295. The suspension is tuned for off-road use, and the standard 3,500-pound towing capacity rises to 6,000 pounds.

The Pathfinder Rock Creek is immediately identifiable by the robust tubular roof rack that is ready to carry 220 pounds of gear. Also noticeable are the 265/60/18 all-terrain tires wrapped around 18-inch black-painted beadlock-style aluminum alloy wheels. You will also find a front skid plate and prominent molding on the side panels. The model also stands out for its black grille with bespoke mesh inserts, black exterior badging, and LED fog lights.

The enhanced capability finds its way inside as well with water-repellent seats. Also beneficial is the HD Intelligent Around View® Monitor with Off-Road Mode. In addition to providing a 360-degree view around the vehicle, the Off-road mode acts as your own personal spotter by providing specific angles to help spot obstructions on the trail. Other mainstream features inside the Pathfinder Rock Creek include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, three rows of seats, a three-zone climate control system, rear auto braking, a blind-spot monitor, and lane departure warning.

Rogue Rock Creek

New for the 2025 model year is the Rock Creek version of Nissan’s best-selling model, the Rogue. It is a step up from the SV AWD model. Like the Pathfinder, the Rogue Rock Creek features a 220-lb capacity tubular roof rack up top and Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires down below wrapped around 17-inch dark-painted aluminum-alloy wheels. You will also find Lava Red accents throughout, including one spoke of each of those wheels.

Inside, you will find the same water-repellent seating surfaces with Lava Red contrast stitching. The Rogue model also shares the Pathfinder Rock Creek’s HD Intelligent Around View® Monitor with the Off-Road Mode to help you see all around the vehicle. The standard all-wheel-drive system includes Hill descent control to help you control the speed down steep descents. Additional extras include heated front seats and a 12-volt outlet in the cargo area.

As Nissan puts it, both Rock Grade models are “ideal for those looking to stand out from – and get away from – the crowd.” Dick Smith Nissan invites you to visit their store in Lexington to see which Rock Creek model works best for you.