2022 Nissan Pathfinder SL AWD

Great people mover alternative to a minivan

2022 Nissan Pathfinder. Courtesy of Nissan

For the 2022 model year, Nissan has redesigned the Pathfinder to position its three-row SUV to compete strongly with Kia Telluride, Toyota Highlander, and Hyundai Palisade.

The cabin provides room for seven or eight passengers across three rows.

Three-row seating accommodates up to 8 passengers. Courtesy of Nissan

The DOHC 3.5-liter V6 provides 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. The power is carried by a new nine-speed automatic transmission with manual mode paddle shifters.

Most impressive was the new intelligent 4X4 system that brings a set of seven drive and terrain modes, including sand and mud/rut off-road modes. Capable of towing up to 6,000 pounds, the Pathfinder allows you to focus on any destination with a hefty amount of payload, and get there quickly and safely.

Towing up to 6,000 pounds. Courtesy of Nissan

Fuel economy is estimated at 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

The new model provides more cabin space, including a large bin below the center console that is within easy reach of the front occupants. The panoramic moonroof allows outside light and air to be brought inside for a more focused enjoyment.

A large storage space beneath the center console. Courtesy of Nissan

The cabin provides additional storage space inside all four doors to complement the large bin below the center console.

Available second-row captain's chairs and storage inside doors. Courtesy of Nissan

Luxury characteristics such as suede-leather type upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and upper trim features such as aniline leather upholstery add to the quality of the cabin.

NissanConnect infotainment system resides behind a 9.0-inch touchscreen, and works together with the 12.3-inch digital cluster system to provide all key data at all time. Other modern convenient features include on-board Wi-Fi Hotspot, wireless smart phone charging pad, and SiriusXM Satellite Radio.

Front dash with digital dash, HUD, and infotainment system touchscreen. Courtesy of Nissan

The base audio system is a six-speaker set. Higher models get a 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio System.

A whole host of standard driver-assist features have been tossed in, such as Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, High Beam Assist, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, and Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection.

A clean and aggressive design for the rear. Courtesy of Nissan

Most impressive was Nissan Door to Door Navigation with 3D building graphics, satellite imagery POI search, and online traffic information. You felt like you were actually a part of the graphic world.

Outside, the test Pathfinder rests on 20-inch alloy wheels with 255/50R20 all-season tires, wrapping around a Charcoal Leather interior. They all work together to present a fashionable and rugged profile.

Charcoal Leather interior. Courtesy of Nissan

Most manufacturers have one or two major strengths, but the Pathfinder checks all the boxes needed in a quality automobile -- capability, technology, safety features and reliability, plus a bold style and innovation. All check!

Available two-tone color scheme. Courtesy of Nissan

2022 Nissan Pathfinder also has a quiet cabin, lots of storage, off-road capabilities, and an excellent assortment of technologies.

The MSRP for the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder starts at $33,410 for the base S 2WD model. Moving up a couple of notches to the SL and opt for AWD, and the list price goes up to $41,490.

Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles Basic Coverage Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles Powertrain Coverage Warranty 5 years/unlimited miles Corrosion Perforation Warranty

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world, He may be reached at this paper or [email protected].