2022 Nissan Pathfinder

Engine Type

A 3.5-liter direct-injection V6 engine paired with a continuously variable transmission rests under the hood of every 2022 Nissan Pathfinder, regardless of trim. Front-wheel-drive is the standard across the lineup, but the brand does offer the Nissan Intelligent four-wheel-drive as an optional upgrade on all trims. The 2022 Pathfinder has a towing capability up to 6,000 pounds, essentially dwarfing other vehicles’ figures in the same segment. Its fuel economy is respectable given its size, with the Pathfinder fuel economy ratings at 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Four-wheel-drive only decreases fuel economy ratings by one mile, EPA-rated at 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Trims

The 2022 Pathfinder offers buyers four different trims to choose from: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. The S trim is the entry-level tier and it comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display, dual USB ports, satellite radio, Bluetooth wireless technology, three-zone automatic climate control, and some advanced active safety features. Meanwhile, the SV trim builds on the base-tier by offering an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Moving up the tiers, the SL trim also adds leather upholstery, a hands-free liftgate, a navigation system, and heated front and rear seats. The Platinum trim is at the top of the pyramid and it comes standard with luxury features such as a panoramic sunroof, a power-adjustable steering wheel, ventilated front seats and a premium Bose sound system. Nissan also offers a special Rock Creek Edition package for the SL and SV trims, adding blacked-out exterior accents, 18-inch wheels, and a trailer tow hitch.

Exterior Features

The Pathfinder transitioned from being a rugged SUV to a family-oriented option long ago and its car-like body is a testament to that fact. Nissan complements the Pathfinder’s design with sharp bulges around the wheels and large windows that add much visibility. There’s also a small kickup toward the rear pillar that adds much-needed flair to the model. The 2022 Pathfinder rides on 18- or 20-inch wheels, depending on the trim or if a special edition package is chosen. 

Interior Features

On the inside, the Pathfinder is pretty straightforward. Lighter shades complement an otherwise dark cabin, while the dashboard is broad and features soft-touch materials. Top-tier Pathfinder vehicles also feature wood accents, a welcome change surrounding the center console and infotainment display. The front seats are comfortable and spacious and sit up high for improved visibility. The second row is easily accessible, it seats up to three adults and offers more than 40 inches of legroom. Additionally, the second row seats slide easily so that passengers can gain access to the third row that’s better suited for children due to just 30 inches of legroom. The trunk offers more than 16 cubic feet of cargo room, but with the third row folded down that cargo space expands to 47 cubic feet.

Entertainment

All Pathfinder vehicles, regardless of trim, come standard with an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen display, Bluetooth capabilities, and USB connectivity. There’s a click wheel controller to make navigating the infotainment options easy. Navigation is included in the SL and Platinum trims, and remains an optional upgrade on the SV trim. The Platinum trim also offers an available rear-seat entertainment system, complete with available 9-inch touchscreens on the back of each individual headrest, along with a premium Bose sound system.

Safety Features and Warranty

Although no recent safety ratings have been announced, the previous-generation Pathfinder model did earn a Top Safety Pick designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), along with a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The entry-level S trim comes standard with the following advanced safety features: Automatic Emergency Braking and a backup rearview camera with a sonar system. Starting with the SV trim and up, the Nissan Pathfinder offers buyers Adaptive Cruise Control, Bind-Spot Monitoring, and Rear-Cross Traffic Alerts. On the SL and Platinum trims a surround-view camera system is also standard. 

All Nissan vehicles are covered by a 3-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty, a 5-year / 60,000-mile powertrain warranty, respectively whichever comes first. The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder has a starting MSRP of $31,680 (plus destination fee).