SEMA 2026: The Patrol Story Behind Nissan’s Pathfinder XE-V6 Stripes
Nissan’s retro Pathfinder concept combines two different heritage references. Here is what its side graphics reveal about choosing a stripe design.
A red SUV, a restrained stripe palette and a very specific nod to the 1980s: Nissan’s Pathfinder XE-V6 concept offers a useful graphics story from SEMA 2026, November 3–6 in Las Vegas.
Two references in one design
In its November 2 announcement, Nissan connects the XE-V6 name and retro badging to the first-generation WD21 Pathfinder. The stripes have a different reference: Nissan says the red body with black, charcoal and silver graphics draws on Patrol SUVs of the 1980s.
That distinction makes the concept more interesting than a simple anniversary color scheme. It combines a Pathfinder identity with a visual idea from another part of Nissan’s SUV history.
Look at the route of the stripe
In the official rear three-quarter photograph, the light band runs along the doors and rear quarter, with a change of direction toward the front. From a design perspective, that long horizontal route is as important as the colors: it gives the eye a clear line to follow across the body.
For your own graphics project, separate two choices: the palette you like and the path you want the stripe to take. A useful first step is to mark that path on a side-on photograph of your vehicle, paying attention to door handles, wheel arches and body creases. Then use the vehicle and panel checklist when discussing a suitable kit.
Nissan describes the XE-V6 as a show concept, not a vehicle offered for sale. Its official photos and build sheet are a starting point for studying the design.
