Nissan Pathfinder: Rugged Redesign and Road-Ready Versatility

Words and Photos by Jennifer Jensen

In the world of SUVs, the Nissan Pathfinder nameplate has carried serious weight over the years. Once a rugged, boxy, body-on-frame off-roader, it gradually morphed into a softer, family-friendly crossover. But for 2022, Nissan decided it was time to get back to the roots — at least, a bit. With a bold new look, a completely revamped interior, and some added muscle, the 2022 Pathfinder has re-entered the ring, ready to impress. And after spending some time behind the wheel, I have to say, it does a fantastic job.

A New Look with a Stronger Stance

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came onto the scene in the summer of 2021, and it doesn’t take long to see that Nissan aimed to inject some attitude. The Pathfinder now sports a bolder, more rugged design, one that reflects a bit of its off-road legacy. With squared-off edges, a larger grille, and wider, more planted stance, this Pathfinder doesn’t just look ready for adventure; it looks serious about it.

That transformation isn’t just skin-deep. Nissan made a solid effort to add functionality and purpose to the look. The rear has a more upright design, with increased cargo volume that doesn’t compromise on the squared-off, muscular look. If you’re hunting for an SUV that feels like a rugged, capable companion and not just a family hauler, the Pathfinder’s refreshed design will likely appeal.

Powertrain and Transmission: Nine Speeds Make a Difference

Powering this Pathfinder is a 3.5-liter V6, generating 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. That’s solid power for a three-row SUV in this class, and it’s delivered through an all-new nine-speed automatic transmission. Gone is the unloved and underperforming continuously variable transmission (CVT) from the previous generation. This change alone improves the driving experience significantly, particularly in terms of responsiveness and acceleration.

The nine-speed automatic doesn’t just make the Pathfinder feel livelier; it’s also smoother and quieter. Nissan claims that it improves fuel economy as well. As for drive modes, there are seven of them — yes, seven. In the four-wheel-drive model, you get standard, sport, automatic, eco, sand, mud/rut, and snow modes. Each one tweaks the throttle, braking, and even the transmission’s shifting style for that specific terrain or driving need. While I found the “standard” and “sport” modes more than capable on most drives, it’s nice to know the Pathfinder has the capability to handle more demanding terrain if you’re planning a weekend adventure or heading off the beaten path.

Interior Comfort and Convenience: Where Pathfinder Shines

Step inside the 2022 Pathfinder, and it’s clear Nissan wanted this SUV to deliver on comfort as well as versatility. My test vehicle was the Platinum trim, the top-of-the-line model in the Pathfinder family. And it’s a family lineup, with the S, SV, SL, and then the Platinum taking the top spot. The interior quality jumps out immediately. The materials feel solid, the design is sharp, and it’s clear Nissan focused on both practicality and aesthetics. The goal was to take the interior more upscale and Nissan did not disappoint.

This Platinum version has a 12.3-inch configurable digital cockpit, which gives you flexibility in how you view information. The setup is intuitive, allowing you to quickly cycle between different displays for navigation, vehicle settings, and even a full map view. Lower trims come with a 7-inch display, so there’s plenty of screen space at all levels, but the Platinum definitely stands out for customization and tech integration.

A standard 8-inch touchscreen sits in the center console, but the Platinum offers a 9-inch version. Both setups are compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the system itself is responsive. There are actual physical buttons below the screen, which I always appreciate for their ease of use and reliability while driving. It’s refreshing to see Nissan didn’t lean into an all-digital setup here, which can sometimes feel frustratingly slow or complicated to navigate.

Thoughtful Seating Arrangements and Practical Storage

One of the highlights of this Pathfinder is its seating flexibility. The Platinum model includes second-row captain’s chairs, a feature that enhances comfort for backseat passengers. The captain’s chairs are separated by a center console and feature a one-touch “Easy Flex” system that allows passengers to slide them forward with ease, providing easy access to the third row. This is particularly helpful if you’re loading up with kids or if a car seat is already installed in the second row. In the back, third-row seating is a bit tighter, but it’s manageable for shorter drives or younger passengers.

Storage-wise, Nissan has added a luggage box under the rear floor, perfect for stashing away smaller items or anything you’d rather keep hidden. Plus, with the seats folded, you get an impressive amount of cargo space for all kinds of gear. And the cabin is lined with cubbies and compartments, from large door pockets to clever center-console storage that can fit bags, phones, and more.

Driving Impressions: Comfort and Capability in Equal Measure

Out on the road, the Pathfinder performs better than expected for a three-row SUV. That nine-speed transmission really helps with overall drivability. It’s smart, responsive, and doesn’t hesitate when you need that quick burst of power. Acceleration is smooth and confident, and the Pathfinder doesn’t feel sluggish or heavy.

Nissan also worked to make the Pathfinder quieter, adding thicker glass and more insulation throughout the cabin. And it shows. Even on the highway, the cabin stays serene, which adds to the sense of refinement that this model brings. The Pathfinder handles well, too, with a nice balance between being light enough for quick maneuvers and solid enough to feel stable. The steering system, now a dual-pinion electric rack, offers decent feedback, and while it’s not going to compete with a sports car for feel, it’s responsive enough to give you confidence on the road.

The suspension setup is solid — an independent strut suspension with rebound springs up front and a multi-link rear with a hollow tube stabilizer bar in the back. Together, they help smooth out bumps, and the ride feels composed, even with a full load of passengers and gear. It’s not overly soft, nor is it punishingly stiff. And with its towing capacity rated up to 6,000 pounds, it’s clear Nissan expects the Pathfinder to haul a lot more than groceries.

Safety and Technology: A Pathfinder Staple

As expected, safety features are comprehensive. Standard across the lineup is Nissan’s Safety Shield 360, which includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, high beam assist, and rear automatic braking. It’s a thorough package that adds to peace of mind, particularly in the Platinum model, which tacks on additional features like blind spot intervention, lane intervention, and traffic sign recognition.

Nissan also includes its ProPILOT Assist system, available from the SV trim upward, which combines adaptive cruise control with lane-centering tech for an easier highway drive. It’s particularly useful for stop-and-go traffic or for keeping you in your lane on long trips. The Platinum model even adds ProPILOT Assist with Navi-Link, which uses navigation data to anticipate and adjust for things like sharp curves and upcoming exits. It’s a subtle system, but one that works well to keep the Pathfinder smooth and safe especially on longer journeys where you might have a little driver fatigue.

Pathfinder’s Practical Appeal

To me, the Pathfinder’s strength lies in its versatility. With multiple trims to choose from, it offers something for a range of buyers, from the S trim at just over $33,000 to the fully-loaded Platinum, which tops $51,000. It’s worth mentioning that while this model comes at a higher price point, it’s packed with features that are both functional and enjoyable.

Nissan didn’t overcomplicate the Pathfinder with gimmicks or unnecessary flash. Instead, it delivers practical features in an SUV that feels thoughtfully designed. There’s plenty of room, ample power, comfortable seating, and a tech setup that’s genuinely useful — all things that buyers in this class are looking for.

Final Thoughts: A Solid Three-Row That Feels Right

The 2022 Pathfinder is a return to form in many ways. It’s an SUV that embraces a bit of ruggedness while also focusing on family-friendly features and everyday usability. And for me, it all comes together as a well-rounded package. After a week with this Pathfinder, I even opted to keep it over another review vehicle, Nissan’s Z, for a weekend.

While the Z is certainly fun, sometimes comfort and practicality win out. The Pathfinder’s combination of space, refinement, and capability just made it the right choice. If you’re in the market for a family SUV that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or style and can still handle a bit of adventure, the Nissan Pathfinder should be high on your list.

With this latest redesign, Nissan’s got a strong contender in the three-row SUV category, one that balances rugged appeal with modern amenities. If the Pathfinder doesn’t sell like hotcakes, the buying public may just be missing out on a really well-executed family SUV.