Yahoo Autos The All-New 2022 Nissan Pathfinder: Legends Never Die
The Pathfinder’s reputation precedes it. When the boxy Nissan made its debut as a two-door sport-ute in 1987, it became the “it” vehicle for a generation of voyagers and thrill seekers. Originally based on Nissan’s Hardbody Truck, its unmistakable angular build boasted a modern interior and serious off-road capability. A premium vehicle with a penchant for outdoor leisure activities, the Pathfinder was quick to develop a cult following among adventure aficionados, and it lasted through the decades. After 34 years of evolution, Nissan has honored its heritage by delivering a fifth-generation Pathfinder that is more rugged, more capable, and more luxurious than ever before.
In Pursuit of Adventure
After spending more than a year indoors, we’re ready to take a much-needed detour off the beaten path and the all-new, ruggedly redesigned 2022 Nissan Pathfinder—starting at just $33,410—is an ideal companion for the journey ahead. Flexing an athletic new physique, it’s available in four well-appointed trim levels (S, SV, SL and Platinum) and has been refreshed with its most robust styling to date; its exceedingly bold stature feels mighty and refined all at once. Under the hood, the Pathfinder is powered by a 3.5-liter 284-hp V6 engine, and it’s outfitted for the first time ever with a nine-speed automatic transmission that delivers predictive and responsive shifting. On the road, its steering is quick and predictable as a result of new, dual-pinion electric power steering, and its muscular stance comes standard with wider 255/50R20 tires that offer greater contact with the pavement than before, for more controlled handling.
Available with an Intelligent 4x4 system, the Pathfinder gives drivers confidence and support through challenging weather or terrain. The sure-footed system is able to help anticipate wheel slip before it occurs, by monitoring throttle angle, vehicle speed, and steering to transfer torque to the wheels accordingly. The 4x4 configurations also see the addition of hill descent control as well as an intuitive Drive and Terrain Mode Selector, which offers the ability to switch between seven different drive modes (Standard, Sport, Eco, Snow, Mud, Rut, and Tow). A turn of a dial tailors the vehicle’s performance and response to road conditions.
The capabilities don’t end there; the Pathfinder is also a towing champ. While most competitors’ towing capacities top out at 5,000 to 5,600 pounds, the Pathfinder is primed to handle a maximum of 6,000—more than enough to tow most mid-size campers, let alone two ATVs. The Pathfinder is also equipped with Trailer Sway Control, which will automatically slow down the vehicle in the event it senses potentially hazardous swaying movement from the trailer, offering an extra level of assurance as you travel with precious cargo in tow.
Relentlessly Versatile
The Pathfinder’s performance and handling is matched by its versatile interior. The wide-opening doors reveal a spacious family hauler. Second-row bench seating comes standard, providing enough room for eight. And the available second-row captain’s chairs include a detachable center console that requires no extra tools to remove or reinstall. The third row is generously sized to accommodate taller adults, measuring up with more headroom than most competitors and—thanks to the convenience of EZ FLEX® seating—getting into the rear seats is also effortless. Located behind the second-row seats on both driver or passenger sides, Nissan’s one-touch push button alleviates any strenuous lifting and sliding in order to access the third row. The sensible design of the EZ FLEX® seating is not inhibited by a car seat, either; it can angle most empty front-facing child seats to provide third-row access without the need to uninstall the seat.
