Nissan seems to have taken the hint that consumers weren’t keen on the 2020 redesign of the Pathfinder. So now, we find ourselves with a completely new 2022 Nissan Pathfinder. It looks more modern and boasts the rugged good looks that off-road SUVs aspire to but sometimes fail to hit the mark. The new Pathfinder comes in four trim levels to choose from, but two stand apart from the others.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder offers 4 trim levels

According to Nissan, the new Pathfinder comes in four trim levels: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. 

The S is the standard model, with an affordable starting MSRP of $33,680. The SV jumps $3,000 and starts at $36,470. The SL starts at $39,940, and the Platinum retails for $46,540 to start.

Front-wheel drive comes standard, so this isn’t a vehicle for anyone looking to do serious off-roading. There is an option to upgrade any of the trim levels to all-wheel drive, but you’ll have to pay more for that feature. If you choose to do this, you get driving modes like the off-road-focused Sand and Mud/Rut modes, which means you can go off the beaten path with more ease.

The interior is now more comfortable than the outgoing 2020 model, and it feels more spacious, especially if you choose captain’s chairs in the second row. However, the front seats still feel a bit stiff, and the engine isn’t exactly known for its responsiveness. 

With four trim levels, it might seem daunting which to choose, but the SL and SV outshine their siblings for several reasons.

The Nissan Pathfinder SV trim is the better bet for budget-conscious buyers

Though it’s sometimes tempting to choose with the cheapest trim, especially if you’re on a budget, sometimes that extra $3,000 pays for itself. That’s the case with the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder SV. 

It’s Edmunds’ pick for the best Pathfinder of 2022 because it adds features such as heated seats and adaptive cruise control, making you feel a little spoiled while driving to work. With the standard S, you get an 8.0-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, lane departure warning, rear automatic brakes, forward collision mitigation, and blind-spot monitoring.

The SV comes with all of those features plus remote start, heated exterior mirrors, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and lane-keeping assist. Also with the SV, you can also add optional features such as a panoramic sunroof, power liftgate, tow kit with a 6,000-pound capacity, and second-row captain’s chairs with a removable center console. 

Edmunds indicates the SV trim is the most popular among consumers, likely for its blend of relative affordability and features.

But the SL trim offers more goodies 

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder’s next trim level up is the SL. Car and Driver recommends this trim due to the extra technology. Though the SV certainly brings plenty to the table, the SL boasts a 9.0-inch-screen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity, and a 360-degree camera system.

And if you have an extra $2,900, you can upgrade to the SL Premium Package. It includes 20-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, heated rear seats, a Bose stereo system, and wireless smartphone charging. 

Plus, it comes with the towing package, allowing you to haul items such as boats, campers, and ATVs. The cargo space isn’t exactly the best in the segment, but the roof rack will allow you to haul more luggage or equipment. 

However, no matter which trim you choose, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder is a huge improvement over the previous model. But if your budget allows, the SV and SL are far better investments than the base model.