Can the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder Make up for the Xterra?
What do we want? The Nissan Xterra! What are we getting? The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder. But can the new Pathfinder live up to the beloved Xterra that fans are begging Nissan to bring back? Maybe, let’s check out the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder specs.
Is the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder a good SUV?
Yes, it’s all-new, and it looks great. The refreshed look is boxy and rugged to suggest more off-road capability. It almost looks like a larger version of the Nissan Xterra, which was undervalued as one of the best off-roading SUVs.
The LED headlights give it an aggressive look, and you can see ‘Pathfinder’ displayed across the rear. The license place location was moved down to the rear bumper for a more refined look that seems more put together too.
How powerful is the new Pathfinder?
The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder comes with a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine that provides 284-hp and 259 lb-ft of torque. This engine was carried over from the previous model.
However, the powertrain isn’t CVT anymore. The engine is now paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. When properly equipped, the Pathfinder can tow up to 6,000 lb.
According to Auto Blog, the Pathfinder still has a unibody frame. This can be disappointing for the off-roaders that want true 4×4 capability. However, the AWD system has a new coupling design to send 50% of the torque to the rear wheels even if it doesn’t detect the front wheels slipping.
Nissan says the Pathfinder has been enhanced for off-roading, but with a 7.2-inch ground clearance, the Pathfinder is a little limited. Perhaps a lifted off-roading trim will come out later to compete against rivals.
A new trailer sway control feature now comes standard. Also, there is a new electronic power steering system that’s tuned to help the Pathfinder feel quick and more agile. So, while it won’t make up for the Xterra, it’s at least a little sportier.
New Nissan Pathfinder features
The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder has a totally refreshed interior. It looks like it has more premium materials and a quality, modern design. There are seven interior options to choose from that include different trim and seat finishes. Plus, ambient lighting provides a nice touch.
An 8-inch touchscreen comes standard with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. We would prefer to see wireless Apple CarPlay, but oh well. You can upgrade to an 8-inch screen. The top trim offers a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, and a 10.8-inch head-up display is also optional.
You can now get the Pathfinder with optional captain’s chair in the second row, so that’s a nice modern update. A center console comes between the seats, and a button will automatically fold the second-row forward for easy access to the third row.
There are 16.2 cubic feet of storage behind the third row with up to 79.5 cubic feet total. The Kia Telluride offers 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats with 87 cubic feet total, so the Pathfinder lags behind in terms of room.
Nissan hasn’t revealed what comes standard yet, but a new navigation map data feature can automatically speed up for freeway interchanges and exits. Also, pricing information hasn’t been released yet, but the 2022 Pathfinder will be available this summer.
