Three-row crossovers are the vehicle of choice for most families, even if we still feel that a minivan is the better option, but that’s a different story. The segment is dominated by players from nearly every automaker, but over the last few years one player – the Nissan Pathfinder was easily forgotten. Now Nissan has given the Pathfinder a big redesign for the 2022 model year, which make it a better rival to other three-row crossovers that lead the segment, like the Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander.
The fifth-generation Pathfinder has fixed many of the issues that plagued the last generation, like its tight third row and forgettable styling. The 2022 Pathfinder is longer, wider and taller than its predecessor. It now looks more rugged with its boxy styling. Inside although the wheelbase is the same length, there’s more interior space. The third row can now fit adults and a new middle seating position provides room for up to right passengers. Accessing the third row is also easy thanks to the sliding second row seats and you can even move them with a child seat in place.
Under the hood the biggest change is that the old continuously variable transmission (CVT) has been swapped out for a new nine-speed automatic. The new transmission is mated to the same 284 hp 3.5-liter V6, but the overall driving experience has improved thanks to the more responsive transmission. The optional all-wheel drive system now shift power to the rear faster. The Pathfinder’s fuel economy specs have also improved with the 2022 Pathfinder gaining 1 mpg combined over the last version. It’s rated at 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and 21 mpg city, 27 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined with all-wheel drive. It can also tow up to 6,000 pounds.
To improve its handling, the new Pathfinder, Nissan stiffened the spring rates and increased the tire width from 235 to 255 millimeters. The suspension updates don’t make the Pathfinder any more fun to drive than its predecessor. If you’re looking for a fun to drive three-row crossover, you’ll want to check out the Mazda CX-9. The Pathfinder’s light steering is an issue, but it does have a smooth ride, most of the time.
Inside the new interior is a major upgrade with higher quality materials and better tech features. Everything that you touch feels soft and premium. The overall design of the interior is also nicer than rivals, like the Toyota Highlander. Buyers can choose either a standard second-row bench seat or captain’s chairs. If you opt for the upper trim levels, the seats are wrapped in luxurious semi-aniline leather. Heated and ventilated seats add to the Pathfinder’s appeal.
The Pathfinder comes standard with an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, but a larger 9.0-inch display is standard on SL and Platinum models. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is standard, while upper trims let you connect wirelessly. A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, wireless charging pad, a head-up display, a Wi-Fi hotspot and a navigation system are available. If music is your thing, a 13-speaker Bose audio system is optional.
On the safety front, the 2022 Pathfinder comes standard with a long list of driver-assistance features, like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning and automatic high beams. Adaptive cruise control with the semi-autonomous mode, called ProPilot assist is standard on SV, SL and Platinum trim levels.
The pricing for the 2022 Pathfinder starts at $34,905, including destination. It’s offered in several trim levels: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. The top Pathfinder Platinum with all-wheel drive is priced at $49,665.
The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder is a big improvement over its predecessor with its more rugged styling, more spacious interior and updated tech features. It’s finally a competitive three-row crossover, which will make you forget all about the previous version.
