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2022 Nissan Pathfinder Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Why Buy a 2022 Nissan Pathfinder?

Should You Buy a 2022 Nissan Pathfinder? Here Are Some Reasons For and Against

Better than ever before, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder is making waves with its new appearance and revamped design efforts. Completely redone for 2022, the Nissan Pathfinder is a shadow of its previous model year structuring. Committed to maintaining its signature shape and style, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder is an elevated version of its previous layout. Rugged, capable of off-road travel, and adept at towing heavy loads, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder has all the features buyers are looking for in a modern SUV.

What's New for 2022?

Ditching its previous look, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder is completely brand new. So much so that you may not even recognize it, except for a few signature accents that stuck around for its newest model year. Arriving on dealer lots in the summer of 2021, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder has standard driver assistive safety features in its lower S and SV models now. Becoming more upscale, the Pathfinder SL trim comes with a premium Bose audio system, panoramic sunroof, and heated seats in the rear. The mid-level SV trim even offers a 360-degree camera setup and a large 9.0-inch infotainment screen, which are received with a warm welcome for those who do not desire a top trim.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2022 Nissan Pathfinder – The Pros

There is so much to enjoy in the new 2022 Nissan Pathfinder. Aside from its good looks, the powertrain, tech, and safety of this large SUV are also attractive to buyers. Listed below is a list of attributes we enjoy in the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder.

1. Enjoy the Serenity of a Quiet Cabin.

The quietness of the Pathfinder's interior did not happen by chance. It was intentional. Thicker glass in the second row, more door and floor insulation and front glass with acoustic lamination all contribute to a reduction in cabin noise by up to sixty percent. This creates a quieter ride experience and better perception of music on your drive.

2. An Innovative "Floating" Roofline That Catches Attention.

Taking advantage of a two-tone color scheme, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder uses a darker color on the roof to create the illusion of a "floating" roofline. Often unseen on rival SUVs, this design concept helps to set the new Nissan Pathfinder apart from other models.

3. Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive with Selectable Drive Modes for Customized Performance.

Selectable drive modes are not that uncommon in modern SUVs, but the combination of this performance technology with four-wheel drive is often unseen. The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder utilizes both elements to allow drivers to customize their driving experience. Catering well to travel in snow, mud, rain, and sand, the Nissan Pathfinder allows you to control your drive in all terrain conditions.

4. Experience a New and Improved Nine-Speed Automatic Transmission.

Previous model years of the Nissan Pathfinder relied on a bulking and jerky continuously variable transmission. The 2022 Pathfinder replaced this equipment with a smooth nine-speed automatic transmission. Working better with this SUV's V6 engine to improve towing capacity, this transmission is an upgrade from years prior.

5. Huge Digital Dashboard Layouts on All Models.

Digital dashboards offer another way for drivers to keep stats on their vehicle and monitor vehicle condition throughout their driver. In its 2022 model year version, the Nissan Pathfinder boasts an expansive 12.3-inch dashboard layout for convenience. Not to mention, a large 10.8-inch Head-Up Display contributes to driver attentiveness by projecting vehicle readings right onto the windshield ahead.

6. More Powerful Than Ever Before.

As we briefly mentioned, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder got a new transmission. It also boasts greater towing abilities in its 2022 version. Thanks to its production of 284 horsepower and 259 lb.-ft. of torque, the Pathfinder can now power through towing up to 6,000 pounds, too.

7. An Intelligent Around View Monitor Promotes Visibility and Safety.

While two people were once required to back up to a trailer, the Nissan Pathfinder's new Intelligent Around View Monitor makes it easy to back up to a trailer without assistance from a person. This camera ensures the area behind the vehicle is free and clear of obstacles, as well as provides a detailed view of a reversing area for safety promotion.

8. Dynamic Driving Technology That Elevates Your Ride.

Navigating on various surfaces, elevations and inclines has never been easier than it is in the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder thanks to technology created for these purposes. An electronic parking brake with auto hold with hold the brakes in stop-and-go traffic without foot pressure. Idle start and stop also turns off your engine when you are sitting idle to conserve fuel.

9. An EZ FLEX Seating System in the Second Row Promotes Convenience.

In many SUVs, you are limited on where you can place a child's seat due to anchor positioning and seating functionality for third-row access. The EZ FLEX seating system in the second row of the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder makes it easy to move second row seats around while child seats stay in place. The second-row seats slide forward and fold forward with a child seat still secured in place.

10. Heated Second-Row Seats Provide Comfort Throughout This SUV.

Heated seats are usually reserved for front-seat passengers in other models, but the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder brings comfort to the rear with second-row heated seats. While this may seem like a small feat, it makes a big difference to those seated in the back on cold winter mornings.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2022 Nissan Pathfinder – The Cons

As impressive as the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder is, there are always areas in which new vehicles can be improved. No SUV is perfect, although the newest Nissan Pathfinder comes close in our opinion.

1. Steering That Leaves Much to be Desired.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder has certainly enhanced its towing power and performance, but it could still use a bit of help in its handling. Lackluster responsiveness and numb steering are common complaints for this revamped SUV model.

2. Same V6 Engine Across All Trims.

Despite the prevalence and desirability of the standard V6 engine across all 2022 Nissan Pathfinder models, some people enjoy more variety under the hood of their vehicle. Unfortunately, you will not find that here with the single V6 engine option in the Pathfinder. If there were one area we would want to specifically improve upon, it would be to add more variety in the Pathfinder's powertrain.

3. Missing a Hybrid Option.

We have little to complain about in the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder, but one variety we would like to see this SUV offer is a hybrid option. Many SUV brands are moving in this direction, and we would love to see the Nissan Pathfinder jump onto this bandwagon.

 

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

Full-size SUVs have increased in popularity in recent years, which means many brands have tried their hand in developing this type of auto. So, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder enters a saturated market and is faced with immediate competition. Some of the top rivals of the Nissan Pathfinder are the Chevrolet Traverse and the Kia Telluride.

2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2021 Chevrolet Traverse

Present in the same class of SUVs, there is not much that is similar between the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder and the 2021 Chevrolet Traverse. Yet, many buyers consider both models when they are shopping for a full-size SUV for purchase. In terms of size, the Chevrolet Traverse is longer than the Pathfinder which also makes it less maneuverable. Yet, the Nissan Pathfinder still offers a similar amount of area for passengers as the Chevrolet Traverse. The Pathfinder is undeniably more stylish, advanced, and powerful across all areas than the Chevrolet Traverse. So, in our mind, there really is no rivalry, as the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder always prevails against the 2021 Chevrolet Traverse.

2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2021 Kia Telluride

The 2021 Kia Telluride is a hot SUV that many buyers are seeking out in the current SUV market space. To compete with this model, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder must be on its best game. Excelling in technology, towing capacity and a cavernous cabin, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder quickly takes over the over-sized and gas guzzling 2021 Kia Telluride. Although the Kia Telluride is spacious on the inside with chic detailing, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder is off-road savvy and stylish on the outside to round out is distinctive personality.

Conclusion

Many individuals will find the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder to be useful and accommodating, as this is an SUV that does not just appeal to a single type of buyer. Its sporty look and selectable drive modes are attractive to those who enjoy off-road travel. Yet, its upscale look and dynamic interior show off its benefit to busy families in need of frequent third-row access. In addition, the modern exterior design elements of the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder appeal to those in search of something new and different in a new SUV purchase. The Nissan Pathfinder is carving its own path in the SUV market segment, and shoppers are loving it.

 
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2020 Nissan Pathfinder