2022 Nissan Pathfinder

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2022 Nissan Pathfinder Test Drive Review: Getting The Job Done

by Jay Traugott

The Nissan Pathfinder continues on its path (pun intended) as a key player in the midsize crossover segment. Redesigned inside and out for 2022, the Pathfinder still rides on the same platform as its predecessor, meaning it's a unibody crossover and not a body-on-frame SUV like the originals. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are available, but all Pathfinders ship with a familiar naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6, good for 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque, paired to a nine-speed automatic which replaces the old and unexciting CVT.

The new Pathfinder's greatest strength is its spacious and well-designed interior. During our week-long test drive of a fully-loaded 4WD Platinum model, this reviewer moved to a new apartment and used the Pathfinder as his personal U-Haul. It did everything requested and more. Folding flat the second and standard third-row seats and electronic liftgate made moving day far easier than expected. With competitors like the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, and the Chevrolet Traverse, the Pathfinder's mission isn't easy but it's more than up to the task.

2022 Nissan Pathfinder Changes: ๐Ÿš™Whatโ€™s the difference vs 2021 Pathfinder?

The Pathfinder is all-new for 2022, and thankfully it found a path toward a new design team. The old Pathfinder was such a frumpy nondescript SUV. If it were an ice cream flavor, it would be fat-free vanilla. The new model is a massive departure in the design department. One might even call it striking. The 3.5-liter V6 engine has been carried over, but the terrible CVT transmission has been ditched in favor of a nine-speed automatic transmission. Along with the new body and gearbox, Nissan also designed an interior boasting all the latest technology.

Pros and Cons

  • Excellent value for money
  • Loads of interior space
  • Impressive towing capacity
  • Lots of standard safety features
  • Acceptable fuel economy
  • Old-school engine
  • Competition is strong
  • Expensive upper trims

Best Deals on 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

2022 Nissan Pathfinder Trims

See trim levels and configurations:

Trim Engine Transmission Drivetrain Price (MSRP)
S
3.5L V6 Gas
9-Speed Automatic
Front-Wheel Drive
Four-Wheel Drive
$34,640
SV
3.5L V6 Gas
9-Speed Automatic
Front-Wheel Drive
Four-Wheel Drive
$37,460
SL
3.5L V6 Gas
9-Speed Automatic
Front-Wheel Drive
Four-Wheel Drive
$40,540
Platinum
3.5L V6 Gas
9-Speed Automatic
Front-Wheel Drive
Four-Wheel Drive
$47,140

Pathfinder Exterior

The Pathfinder is equipped with all of Nissan's new design language highlights, like the V-Motion grille and C-shaped LED daytime running lights. The design is a lot more rugged, though it currently incorporates a few modern aesthetic features found throughout the automotive segment. Just look at the slim taillights and floating roof. Still, there's more than enough going on for the Pathfinder to have its own unique identity. We particularly like the large Pathfinder script on the trunk. It's almost as if the car is proud to be a Pathfinder for the first time in its life. All models get LED headlights and taillights, while LED fog lights are standard on SL and Platinum trims. A panoramic moonroof is only standard on the top-spec Platinum. S, SV, and SL models get 18-inch alloy wheels, while the Platinum comes standard with 20-inch dark metallic alloys.

2022 Nissan Pathfinder Front Angle View CarBuzz
2022 Nissan Pathfinder Rearward Vision CarBuzz
2022 Nissan Pathfinder Side View CarBuzz
See All 2022 Nissan Pathfinder Exterior Photos

Dimensions

The new Pathfinder is 197.7 inches long, 69.7 inches tall (70.7 with roof rails), and 77.9 inches wide. It rides on the same wheelbase as before, which is 114.2 inches long. Though Nissan markets the Pathfinder as an off-roader, it's not meant for anything more severe than a nasty gravel road. Ground clearance is a mere 7.1 inches, and the off-road-related figures are okay but nothing spectacular. The approach, breakover, and departure angles are claimed to be 16.1, 20.9, and 15.6 degrees, respectively. That's the price you pay for the substantial overhangs. Thankfully, these figures are good enough to tackle the urban SUV's most ferocious enemy, otherwise known as the mall parking curb. The FWD S is the lightest model of the bunch, weighing 4,317 pounds. On the heavy side, we have the Platinum AWD, weighing in at 4,625 lbs.

  • Length 197.0 in
  • Wheelbase 114.2 in
  • Height 70.9 in
  • Max Width 77.9 in
  • Front Width 66.9 in
  • Rear Width 66.9 in
  • Curb Weight 4,317.0 lbs

Exterior Colors

In total, there are ten exterior colors and five available two-tone paint schemes. The base S can be ordered in Deep Ocean Blue Pearl, Super Black, Gun Metallic, Brilliant Silver Metallic, and Glacier White. The SV trim removes Glacier White and replaces it with Pearl White Tricoat for an additional $395. It also adds Scarlet Ember Tintcoat at the same price. The SL adds Obsidian Green Pearl and Mocha Almond Pearl at no additional cost. From this trim level, you also gain access to the two-tone options. Obsidian Green Pearl/Super Black, Boulder Gray Pearl/Super Black, and Gun Metallic/Super Black add $350 to the price. Scarlet Ember Tintcoat/Super Black and Pearl White Tintcoat/Super Black retail for $745.

  • Brilliant Silver Metallic
  • Glacier White
  • Super Black
  • Deep Ocean Blue Pearl
  • Gun Metallic
  • Pearl White Tricoat
  • Scarlet Ember Tintcoat
  • Obsidian Green Pearl
  • Mocha Almond Pearl
  • Pearl White Tricoat/Super Black
  • Scarlet Ember Tintcoat/Super Black
  • Obsidian Green Pearl/Super Black
  • Solid Gray/Super Black
  • Gun Metallic/Super Black

Pathfinder Performance

The 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine is carried over from the previous model, producing the same 284 hp and 259 lb-ft of torque. That's both good and bad. On the plus side, it's well-known and as reliable as a sunrise. On the downside, it doesn't have the power nor refinement that its main rivals offer. Luckily for Nissan, this particular segment is still way behind in adopting the smaller capacity turbocharged engine. One of the few standouts is the Mazda CX-9, equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-pot. It's down on horses (only 250), but it blows all of its competitors away when it comes to torque. A full 320 lb-ft is available from just above idle.

Every Pathfinder trim is available in front-wheel drive with all-wheel drive available as an option. This is pretty much the standard in this segment. While the Pathfinder is not a performance car, the FWD model has been independently tested doing 0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds. Brisk enough to keep up with traffic, but not so fast that it scares the kids. No top speed figure is provided, but it will do the maximum legal speed without trying too hard.

The standard towing capacity for the S, SV, and SL is 3,500 lbs. A towing package is available for the SV and SL, increasing the tow rating to 6,000 lbs. This package is standard on the Platinum trim.

2022 Nissan Pathfinder Forward Vision CarBuzz
2022 Nissan Pathfinder Engine CarBuzz
2022 Nissan Pathfinder Engine Bay CarBuzz

Engine and Transmission

The engine might be a carry-over, but the tragic CVT transmission is no more. Instead, Nissan mated the 3.5-liter V6 to a nine-speed torque converter automatic transmission with a broad spread of gear ratios. The 284 hp is available from 6,400 rpm, while the 259 lb-ft of torque kicks in at 4,800 rpm.

The new nine-speed automatic gearbox does a great job making full use of the V6's 284 hp and 259 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated confidently when entering a highway even with the added weight of lots of Ikea-boxed furniture, a pair of large suitcases, and plenty of other miscellaneous belongings.

  • Engine
    3.5L V6 Gas
  • Transmission
    9-Speed Automatic
  • Drivetrains
    4X4, FWD

Handling and Driving Impressions

The Pathfinder is not exciting to drive nor is it intended to be. But that doesn't make it a bad SUV.

Our Platinum grade's AWD system was nice to have but the local Denver weather was unseasonably warm and sunny; we didn't get to experience the Pathfinder in the snow. That's a shame because Nissan has several drive settings, including Snow, Standard, Sport, Mud/Rut, and Tow. Around-town and highway cruising was done entirely in Standard mode and was fuss-free. The Pathfinder provides a confident driving experience thanks to a new steering system that offers relatively fast response times though it's certainly not what you'd find in a BMW X5, for example.

The overall ride is quite smooth but one of our second-row passengers complained they felt too many bumps, even on paved roads. This could be partially blamed on our top grade Platinum's 20-inch wheels. Lower trimmed models come standard with 18-inch wheels and we predict they'll help provide a slightly smoother ride.

One key area Nissan needs to improve upon is the turning radius. It's huge. Maneuvering into tight spaces and parking spots can be a bit difficult. It just takes some getting used to.

Pathfinder Gas Mileage

The EPA-estimated gas mileage figures aren't half bad, considering it's a sizeable SUV with a naturally aspirated V6. The other good news is that the AWD system has no impact on the average fuel economy. According to the EPA, the FWD model is capable of 21/26/23 mpg city/highway/combined, while the AWD model can do 21/27/23 mpg. The AWD Platinum is slightly thirstier and is claimed to consume 20/25/22 mpg.

All models have an 18.5-gallon tank, resulting in a theoretical driving range of 426 miles for the FWD and AWD and 407 miles for the AWD Platinum.

  • Fuel Tank Capacity
    18.5 Gallons
  • Fuel Economy
    City/Hwy: 21/26 mpg
* 2022 Nissan Pathfinder S 2WD

Pathfinder Interior

Along with the new design and the gearbox, the interior also represents a massive leap forward. The old car was an ergonomic nightmare, with what looked like hundreds of buttons and dials simply fired from a blunderbuss into fake wood. Not only is the interior more practical, but it also looks and feels more upmarket. Even the buttons on the steering wheel make more sense.

As is the norm these days, the Pathfinder gets a large central touchscreen interface that handles infotainment, navigation, and other applications. The controls for the dual-zone climate control are entirely separate, housed underneath the touchscreen. If we had to guess, the total button count is down by 90%, but the most important buttons are still exactly where they should be, making it an easy car to interact with. We especially like the big, round "off" button for the infotainment. When you turn it clockwise, the music gets louder. When you press it, the tunes go away. Magnificent.

The stubby shifter adds a dash of elegance, while the various modes for the AWD system couldn't be easier to use. You simply turn it until the terrain outside the windscreen matches the image on the rotary dial.

2022 Nissan Pathfinder Central Console CarBuzz
2022 Nissan Pathfinder Dashboard CarBuzz
2022 Nissan Pathfinder Back Seats CarBuzz
See All 2022 Nissan Pathfinder Interior Photos

Seating and Interior Space

The Pathfinder can accommodate up to eight passengers but our tester was optioned with the roomy (and heated) second-row passengers captain's chairs, so total seating was reduced to seven. We really appreciated the chair's one-touch buttons that lift and slide them forward to provide easy access to the third row.

Legroom there is not the greatest even when the second row is pushed fully forward. We expect a majority of owners to use rearward most seats for children only. Alternatively, keeping them flat most of the time immediately increases cargo space for those weekend Costco runs. The reconfigurable hidden cargo bin beneath the floor can be extremely useful, as is the abundance of cupholders and storage spots throughout the cabin.

Our Platinum grade's 10-way adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support proved to be quite comfortable. Finding the ideal driving position was quick and easy.

  • Seating capacity
    8-seater
  • Front Leg Room 44.3 in
  • Front Head Room 42.3 in
  • Rear Leg Room 35.5 in
  • Rear Head Room 39.6 in

Interior Colors and Materials

The base S model is only available with Charcoal cloth seats, which already give it an upmarket feel. SV trim adds Light Gray cloth, which we wouldn't recommend if you have young kids. Light fabric upholstery and sticky, messy hands don't go well together. SL models upgrade to leather, available in the same colors, while the Platinum trim gets semi-aniline leather, available in Charcoal, Light Gray, and Chestnut.

S and SV models come standard with piano black interior trim inserts, while the SL upgrades to Gun Metallic brushed aluminum. Platinumderivatives get a classy Bronze Metallic brushed interior trim, which goes great with the Chestnut upholstery.

Pathfinder Trunk and Cargo Space

The Pathfinder still offers a reasonable 16.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity with all three rows in place. In other words, more than the average executive sedan. It's a big plus point for Nissan since you don't have to fold the seats flat for the weekly grocery shop or take the kids to school. With the third-row folded flat, the luggage capacity increases to 45 cubes, which is enough for a family of five to go on a week-long holiday. With the second and third-row folded flat, you get 80.5 cubes to play with.

Nissan included several practical touches inside the cabin. Removing the trillion-button dash left enough room for a large storage space for phones and wallets. The armrest has half a cubic foot of storage space underneath. In total, there are 10 cupholders and six bottle holders so that each passenger can take two cans of their favorite beverage along for the ride.

2022 Nissan Pathfinder Trunk Space CarBuzz
2022 Nissan Pathfinder Maximum Trunk Space CarBuzz
2022 Nissan Pathfinder Gearbox Controls CarBuzz

Pathfinder Infotainment and Features

Features

Since the Pathfinder will mostly be used as a family car, it's worth first exploring the impressive range of driver assistance features. Every model in the range comes as standard with blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, rear automatic braking, intelligent forward collision warning, and lane departure warning. Blind-spot and Intelligent Lane Intervention are standard from SV upwards, while SL and Platinum get traffic sign recognition. All but the base S get ProPilot Assist, with full-speed intelligent cruise control and steering assist. The SL and Platinum upgrade the ProPilot system with Navi-Link real-time navigation.

Comfort and convenience features standard on all models includes remote keyless entry via the Intelligent Key, tri-zone climate control, and USB chargers for the second row. The base S model has manually-adjustable seats, while the rest of the trim levels get power seats. Top-spec models get additional goodies like a wireless charging pad, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, USB chargers for the third row, and a head-up display.

Infotainment

The Pathfinder comes standard with an eight-inch infotainment screen but ours came with the nine-inch unit that's made standard on the SL and Platinum. It'd be nice to see the screen size increased by at least an inch as the dashboard is quite large. Both screens run the latest version of the NissanConnect software system, but only the larger of the two boasts wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Other features include SiriusXM satellite radio, navigation, and Bluetooth. We experienced no problems running an Android smartphone. The 12.3-inch digital driver's gauge and head-up display were both very clear to the eyes and the in-dash ProPilot navigation system did its job admirably as we navigated through an unfamiliar city.

Controls for the crisp-sounding 13-speaker Bose sound system (standard on the Platinum trim and optional on the SL) are via the touchscreen and are easy to use. We also appreciated having a conventional volume knob. The base models unfortunately only make do with six speakers.

Pathfinder Problems and Reliability

The Nissan Pathfinder is new, but it already has three recalls to its name for occurrences like third-row headrests that could detach, second-row seatback welds that could separate, and the potential failure of the secondary hood latch. We expect a few teething issues for an all-new model, and importantly, most of the mechanical bits were carried over from the previous Pathfinder, so we're hopeful it'll be reliable where it counts.

The Pathfinder is covered by a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Warranty

  • Basic:
    3 Years \ 36,000 Miles
  • Drivetrain:
    5 Years \ 60,000 Miles
  • Corrosion:
    5 Years \ Unlimited Miles
  • Roadside Assistance:
    3 Years \ 36,000 Miles

Pathfinder Safety

The NHTSA has had the opportunity to review the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder, but the IIHS has conducted a full test, awarding it best-possible scores of Good in most crash tests and rating the crash-prevention systems highly. Only the seats and headlights scored less-than-perfect scores of Acceptable. It is built on good bones, however. In 2019 the previous-generation Pathfinder received a Top Safety Pick award.

US NHTSA Crash Test Result

NHTSA safety ratings are not available at this time.

Key Safety Features

You can drive the Pathfinder knowing that it's equipped with several active and passive features that will do the most to keep your family out of harm's way. It has ten airbags (11 on Platinum) including rear-seat side airbags and dual front knee airbags, a rearview camera (surround-view on upper trims), LATCH anchors for the second row, and the usual list of safety acronyms designed to keep you going straight and true.

On the driver assistance side, even the base model gets the most important features. These include blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, rear automatic braking, intelligent forward collision warning, and lane departure warning. From SV upwards the blind-spot monitoring and lane-keep assist come with an intervention feature.

The base S is the only model with basic cruise control. SV models are equipped with the semi-autonomous ProPilot adaptive cruise control and steering assist, while the SL and Platinum add real-time Navi-Link navigation to the ProPilot system.

Verdict: ๐ŸIs the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder a good SUV?

The new Nissan Pathfinder is a solid choice for any family desiring a spacious three-row crossover. It's not the most thrilling vehicle to drive but that's okay. The Pathfinder's mission isn't to be a sporty vehicle but rather a multipurpose all-rounder. Just don't let its more aggressive, SUV-like exterior styling fool you. It's also not a serious off-roader because of its car-based platform. The optional AWD system can easily handle wintry weather and some rough spots but it does not take the place of a tried and true SUV like the Toyota 4Runner.

Without question, the Pathfinder's greatest attribute is the well-designed and spacious interior. A great deal of thought went into this and it shows. From the second and third-row USB ports, abundance of cupholders, and extremely comfortable captain's chairs, the 2022 Pathfinder's interior packaging is hard to beat. We like the sharpened, more SUV-like exterior appearance, but the interior is what owners will see and experience the most. Aside from the touchscreen that needs to be a bit larger, the Pathfinder's interior layout and design is its strongest selling point. That alone will continue to attract plenty of new and old customers and plenty of very satisfied owners.

๐Ÿš˜What's the Price of the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder?

The price of the Nissan Pathfinder is a little more expensive at the top end of things than most might like, but there's still value to be had at the entry point of the range. The most affordable is the base S at an MSRP of $33,410. An SV retails for $36,200, while the SL comes with a $39,590 sticker price. The top-of-the-range Platinum trim starts at $46,190. Adding an AWD system to any of these models adds $1,900 to the price. These prices exclude the handling and destination charge of $1,175.

2022 Nissan Pathfinder Models

There are four trim levels and eight configurations available as each trim can be equipped in either FWD or AWD. The range consists of S, SV, SL, and Platinum, all available with optional AWD. All models are powered by the same 3.5-liter naturally-aspirated V6 engine producing 284 hp and 259 lb-ft of torque. A nine-speed automatic transmission is standard on all models.

The base S is equipped with LED exterior lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, a chrome grille, a manual liftgate, six-way manually-adjustable driver's seat, four-way manually-adjustable passenger seat, a second-row three-seat bench, tri-zone climate control, remote keyless entry, a seven-inch digital display in the instrument cluster, and an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A six-speaker sound system is standard.

The SV trim adds black roof rails, remote engine start, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, intelligent cruise control, blind-spot intervention, intelligent lane intervention, and ProPilot Assist.

Stepping into the SL sees the addition of LED fog lights, silver roof rails, a power liftgate, leather upholstery for the first and second row, four-way power adjustment for the passenger seats, a nine-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay, door-to-door 3D navigation, third-row USB charging ports, a Homelink remote control, surround-view camera, second-row window sunshades, and ProPilot Assist with Navi-Link.

The top-spec Platinum is only available as a seven-seater. The second-row bench is replaced with two captain's chairs that are heated. The front seats are both heated and ventilated. On the outside, it gains 20-inch dark alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, and motion activation for the power liftgate. Other enhancements include semi-aniline quilted leather upholstery for the front and second row, a wireless charging pad, a Bose 13-speaker premium sound system, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, and an additional USB charger for the third row.

See All 2022 Nissan Pathfinder Trims and Specs

Additional Packages

Nissan keeps it relatively simple when it comes to packages. The SV Premium Package is available, as you might guess, for the SV, adding a panoramic moonroof, power liftgate with position memory, towing preparation, and enhanced cooling to tow 6,000 lbs, second-row captain's chairs, and a second-row removable center console. Likewise, the SL-exclusive SL Premium Package includes a panoramic moonroof, 20-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires, towing prep for 6,000 lbs, a 13-speaker Bose sound system, second-row captain's chairs, heated rear seats, a wireless charging pad, and a second-row removable center console.

๐Ÿš—What Nissan Pathfinder Model Should I Buy?

When it comes to non-premium SUVs, it seems a little silly to pay nearly $50,000 for a fully loaded one. But thankfully, the Pathfinder has a good spread of features to make it a strong contender even in lesser trims. In our eyes, one rung down from the top is a good buy. Starting at just under $40k, the Pathfinder SL gets leather upholstery, a power tailgate, and the larger nine-inch infotainment screen replete with Wireless Apple CarPlay. A surround-view camera and additional safety features also make it a comprehensive package. You'll need the towing package if you want to tow the full 6,000 lbs available, and if you live in a state with regular snow, we'd definitely spring for AWD. Otherwise, all the extra niceties you could want can be added via the SL Premium Package, adding the 13-speaker Bose sound system, a panoramic moonroof, heated rear seats, and second-row captain's chairs.

2022 Nissan Pathfinder Comparisons

Honda Pilot Honda
Toyota Highlander CarBuzz
CompetitorHorsepowerMPGPrice (MSRP)
Nissan Pathfinder284 hp21/26 mpg$34,640
Honda Pilot 280 hp20/27 mpg$38,080
Toyota Highlander 295 hp21/29 mpg$35,855

2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs Honda Pilot

The battle with both the competitors mentioned here has always been one-sided. The previous-generation Pathfinder felt old compared to the Honda Pilot, which has always been a firm favorite in the family transportation category. Now, the gap is closer than ever. The Honda 3.5-liter V6 is 4 hp shy on power but has 3 lb-ft more torque. Both now use nine-speed automatic gearboxes, and both are capable of similar performance, although the Pathfinder can tow up to 6,000 lbs while the Pilot manages only 5,000. Both vehicles also achieve nearly identical gas mileage estimates.

The Honda is more engaging to drive, but its interior isn't as elegant as the Pathfinder's new interior. And compared to the Pathfinder, the Honda also looks a bit generic. But Honda wins back points for more legroom for second- and third-row occupants and a higher passenger volume overall, also translating to slightly more cargo volume in all configurations. Both come with an impressive array of driver assistance features, which is really the most crucial buying decision considering the segment is family-focused. But there's one big differentiator, and that's price. The Nissan starts at $3,000 less than the Nissan and is $2,000 cheaper at the top of the spectrum. The Honda edges out the competition in a number of small metrics, but we feel the Nissan is strong value for money with not much compromise.

See Honda Pilot Review

2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs Toyota Highlander

The Highlander is a strong product, and there isn't any real criticism you can level at it, apart from the tiny third row and the uninspired handling. The Pathfinder is hardly a Z car, so that we won't hold that against the Toyota. Toyota's 3.5-liter V6 is slightly more powerful at 295 hp, but the performance figures are identical. The Pathfinder can tow a full 1,000 lbs more than the Highlander, though.

Their fuel consumption figures are close enough not to matter, and the Toyota is also equipped with a full suite of driver assistance features. The Highlander's interior technology is not as advanced, however. The center console is a bit clunky, and Toyota could have done better with the graphics.

Other than that, these two cars are pretty evenly matched. The top-spec Toyota is more affordable than the top-spec Pathfinder, but the Nissan comes with a lot of cool technology not available in the Toyota. At the bottom of the range, the Nissan is a couple of grand cheaper. This one is close enough to boil down to brand preference.

See Toyota Highlander Review

Nissan Pathfinder Popular Comparisons

The most popular competitors of 2022 Nissan Pathfinder:

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