The automotive world is constantly evolving, with trends emerging and quickly becoming the norm. It’s like listening to the same song on repeat, but in the car industry, these repeating themes often bring about positive changes. The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder is a prime example of this, embodying several key trends in the SUV market. Having recently spent time with the top-of-the-line Platinum 4WD version, it’s clear this SUV has a lot to offer families.
One of the first things you’ll notice about the 2022 Pathfinder is its striking two-tone color scheme. This is a growing trend in SUVs and crossovers, and Nissan executes it well, giving the Pathfinder a modern edge with a black roof contrasting the destroyer gray body. This stylish touch, while costing a bit extra, is a testament to the increasing emphasis on visual appeal in family vehicles. Speaking of visuals, the boxy SUV styling is making a strong comeback. Carmakers like Nissan refer to this as “muscular,” characterized by pronounced wheel wells, a flatter hood, and squared fenders. This design language sets the Pathfinder apart from the more rounded, streamlined SUVs of recent years, projecting a sense of ruggedness and capability.
Stepping inside the Pathfinder Platinum reveals another prominent trend: luxury interiors are no longer exclusive to high-end brands. Even in the competitive mid-price range, SUVs like the Pathfinder are offering premium materials and finishes. The semi-aniline leather in a handsome medium brown, complemented by black trim, creates an inviting and upscale atmosphere. With many hours spent inside our vehicles, manufacturers are rightly focusing on making the cabin a comfortable and enjoyable space. The quilted leather and brushed metal accents, along with piano gloss black trim, elevate the interior’s posh feel. While the gloss finish can be reflective in bright sunlight, the overall ambiance is undeniably luxurious. Crucially, the seats are not just visually appealing; they are well-formed and supportive, ensuring comfort on long journeys. A noticeable improvement from previous models is the softer cushioning, making those extended family road trips far more pleasant.
Practicality remains a core requirement for family SUVs, and the 2022 Pathfinder delivers with its three-row seating. The inclusion of a third row has become almost standard in SUVs beyond the compact segment. Nissan emphasizes the Pathfinder’s third-row legroom advantage over some competitors. However, it’s important to maintain realistic expectations: like most in its class, the third row is best suited for children. For enhanced passenger comfort and capacity, the second row offers optional bench seating, increasing the total capacity to eight. However, most buyers will likely opt for the more comfortable captain’s chairs, limiting seating to seven but providing a more spacious second-row experience, ideal for the typical family of four or five. Access to the third row is thoughtfully designed with one-touch second-row seats. A simple button press folds the seatback forward and slides the entire seat forward, simplifying entry and exit for third-row passengers.
Under the hood, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder features a smooth 9-speed automatic transmission paired with a 3.5-liter V6 engine. This combination is another trend in modern vehicles, aimed at improving fuel economy and providing seamless gear changes for a more refined driving experience. The 9-speed transmission keeps the V6 engine composed, even as this 4,672-pound SUV accelerates to highway speeds. Engine noise is kept to a minimum, ensuring a quiet cabin environment for passengers to enjoy their journey. Fuel economy is respectable for its class, with the tested model achieving 23.3 mpg in mixed driving conditions, exceeding the EPA combined rating. While not class-leading, it’s a practical consideration for family budgets, especially when compared to less efficient SUVs.
Technology and convenience features are abundant in the Pathfinder Platinum. A panoramic sunroof, premium Bose stereo system, and a user-friendly infotainment system are all standard. Nissan’s adoption of a flat-bottom steering wheel is a smart touch, offering both a sporty feel and increased knee room for the driver. Multiple drive modes, selectable via a console dial, cater to various driving conditions, including Mud/Rut, Snow, Eco, and Sport. While “Sport” mode offers a slight improvement in steering feel and acceleration, the Pathfinder remains primarily focused on comfortable family transportation rather than sporty handling.
Safety is paramount for family vehicles, and Nissan has equipped the 2022 Pathfinder with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Nissan Safety Shield 360, standard across all trims, includes lane departure warning, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and front and rear emergency braking. Moving up to the SV trim adds ProPilot Assist, Nissan’s adaptive cruise control and semi-autonomous driving aids. The Platinum trim further enhances safety with a 10.8-inch head-up display.
While the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum offers a compelling package, it’s not without minor drawbacks. The ride quality, while not harsh, is firmer than expected in a family SUV focused on luxury. Road imperfections are noticeable, and the suspension transmits bumps into the cabin. Additionally, third-row legroom, while competitive, remains limited for adults on longer trips. Another point to consider is the integration of the smart cruise control with the semi-autonomous lane-keeping system, which cannot be fully disengaged while using cruise control, potentially becoming intrusive for some drivers.
In conclusion, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum 4WD presents a strong option in the competitive family SUV segment. It successfully blends modern styling, a luxurious and spacious interior, ample power, and a comprehensive suite of features. While the ride may be a bit firm for some and third-row space is typical for its class, the Pathfinder excels in areas that matter most to families: comfort, practicality, and safety. Competitors like the Toyota Highlander, Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Ford Explorer Timberline, and Subaru Ascent offer alternative options, but the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder carves out its own space with its trendy features and well-rounded package, making it a worthy contender for your family SUV consideration.
Pros:
- Roomy 3-row interior
- Stout power from V6 engine
- 7 drive modes for varied conditions
- Sporty flat-bottom steering wheel
- Comprehensive standard safety equipment
- Luxurious heated/cooled front seats and heated steering wheel
- Dual-pane sunroof for enhanced cabin ambiance
- Large digital instrument display and user-friendly infotainment screen
- Convenient under-cargo floor storage and power liftgate
Cons:
- Stiffer ride quality
- Limited third-row legroom for adults
- Smart cruise control system linked to semi-autonomous driving feature.
2022 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum 4WD Specifications:
- Made in: Smyrna, Tennessee
- Engine: 3.5-liter V6, 284 hp / 259 lb-ft torque
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic
- Weight: 4,672 lbs
- Wheelbase: 114.2 in.
- Length: 197.7 in.
- Cargo Space: 16.6/45.0/80.5 cu.ft. (Behind 3rd/2nd/1st row)
- Towing Capacity: 6,000 lbs
- Fuel Economy (EPA): 20 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- Fuel Economy (Tested): 23.3 mpg combined
- Base Price (Platinum 4WD): $49,265 (includes delivery)
- Price as Tested: $50,665
Sources: Nissan, Kelly Blue Book
