2022 Nissan Pathfinder SL Premium Review: Is It Worth It?
Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving headfirst into a detailed review of the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder SL Premium. This SUV has been making waves, and for good reason. It's packed with features, offers a comfortable ride, and boasts a stylish design. But is it the right choice for you? Let's break it down and see if this Pathfinder is worth your hard-earned cash. We'll cover everything from its performance and interior to its technology and overall value. Get ready for a comprehensive look at what makes the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder SL Premium a contender in the competitive SUV market.
Pathfinder SL Premium: What's the Hype About?
The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder SL Premium sits squarely in the mid-size SUV category, competing with the likes of the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Kia Telluride. These are some tough competitors, guys, so Nissan knew they had to bring their A-game. The SL Premium trim is a step up from the base models, offering a blend of luxury and practicality that's hard to ignore. The Pathfinder has undergone a significant redesign for the 2022 model year, ditching some of its older, more rugged looks for a more modern and refined aesthetic. This new design gives it a more contemporary feel that appeals to a wider audience. The Pathfinder SL Premium isn't just about looks, though. It's also packed with features designed to make your driving experience more enjoyable and convenient. We're talking advanced technology, safety features galore, and a comfortable interior that's perfect for both daily commutes and long road trips. The main question here is: does it live up to the hype? That's what we're going to find out. This review will delve into the nitty-gritty details, helping you decide if the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder SL Premium is the right SUV for your lifestyle.
The redesign brought a sharper exterior, with a more prominent V-motion grille, sleek LED headlights, and a floating roof design. This gives the Pathfinder a more athletic and modern appearance. Inside, the changes are just as impressive. The interior has been completely revamped with higher-quality materials, a more intuitive layout, and a host of new features. The Pathfinder SL Premium trim gets you access to some of the best features Nissan offers. This includes things like premium leather-appointed seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a more advanced infotainment system. But it's not just about the fancy stuff. The Pathfinder also delivers when it comes to practicality. It has three rows of seats, offering plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The second and third rows are surprisingly spacious, making it a great option for families. Plus, with a robust V6 engine and available four-wheel drive, the Pathfinder is ready to handle whatever you throw at it. The Pathfinder stands out from the crowd due to its blend of style, comfort, and capability. The 2022 model is a step up from its predecessors. This is an excellent family-friendly SUV that is now more attractive and has the updated features to keep you and your family happy and safe.
Key Features to Consider
- Exterior Design: The new design has a more athletic stance, a distinctive front end, and sleek LED lighting, giving it a modern and upscale look. The color options are also very modern and stylish.
- Interior Comfort: Premium leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a well-designed dashboard create a luxurious and comfortable environment. The space is used efficiently, with good headroom and legroom in all three rows.
- Technology: An advanced infotainment system, a digital dashboard, and a suite of driver-assistance features enhance the driving experience.
- Performance: A powerful V6 engine provides ample performance for daily driving and towing, and the available four-wheel drive improves handling in various conditions.
- Safety: The Pathfinder comes with a comprehensive package of safety features, including advanced driver-assistance systems, to keep you and your passengers safe on the road.
Driving Experience: Performance and Handling
Let's get down to the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder SL Premium's performance, shall we? Under the hood, you'll find a 3.5-liter V6 engine, churning out a healthy 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a new 9-speed automatic transmission. This is a noticeable improvement over the previous CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) in older models. This transmission provides smoother shifts and a more responsive feel, making the Pathfinder more enjoyable to drive. The Pathfinder SL Premium is available in both front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations. The AWD system is particularly noteworthy. It features Nissan's Intelligent 4x4 system, which can automatically distribute power to the wheels with the most grip. This provides excellent traction in various conditions, from rain and snow to light off-road trails. The Pathfinder also comes with a drive mode selector, allowing you to tailor the driving experience to your liking. You can choose from modes like Normal, Sport, Eco, Snow, Sand, and Mud/Rut. These modes adjust the engine, transmission, and AWD system to optimize performance for different driving conditions. The Pathfinder's handling is generally composed and comfortable. The suspension is tuned to provide a smooth ride, soaking up bumps and imperfections in the road. The steering is light and responsive, making the Pathfinder easy to maneuver in tight spaces. However, it's worth noting that the Pathfinder isn't designed to be a sports car. Its focus is on providing a comfortable and practical driving experience. For those who prioritize towing, the Pathfinder is a capable performer. It can tow up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped. This is a competitive figure in the mid-size SUV segment, making the Pathfinder a great choice for those who need to haul trailers, boats, or other equipment. The engine provides enough power for most driving situations, with smooth acceleration and confident passing power. The 9-speed transmission is a significant upgrade, providing a more engaging driving experience than the older CVT. The AWD system offers added security and peace of mind in adverse weather conditions. The Pathfinder will not disappoint when it comes to performance.
The V6 Engine and 9-Speed Transmission
The 3.5-liter V6 engine is the heart of the Pathfinder. It delivers ample power for daily driving and highway cruising. The engine's responsiveness, coupled with the new 9-speed automatic transmission, makes for a refined driving experience. The Pathfinder can tow up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it a versatile option for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Driving Modes and AWD System
The drive mode selector lets you customize the driving experience for different conditions. The AWD system provides excellent traction and stability, especially in challenging weather conditions. The Pathfinder's ability to handle various terrains adds to its appeal, making it a reliable choice for different driving environments.
Interior and Comfort: Space, Features, and Amenities
Let's step inside the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder SL Premium and check out the interior. This is where the Pathfinder truly shines. The interior has been completely redesigned, with a focus on comfort, style, and practicality. The first thing you'll notice is the high-quality materials used throughout the cabin. The SL Premium trim gets you access to premium leather-appointed seats, which are both comfortable and stylish. The seats are well-bolstered, providing good support on long drives. The front seats are also heated, which is a welcome feature on cold days. The dashboard is well-designed and easy to navigate, with an intuitive layout and high-quality materials. The Pathfinder SL Premium comes standard with a panoramic sunroof, which floods the cabin with natural light and enhances the feeling of spaciousness. The second-row seats are also quite comfortable, with plenty of legroom and headroom for adults. The third row, while not as spacious as the second row, is still surprisingly accommodating for its class. The seats are relatively easy to access, thanks to the second row's sliding and tilting functionality. Cargo space is also a strong suit of the Pathfinder. With all three rows of seats in use, there's still a decent amount of cargo space for everyday items. When you need more space, the second and third rows can be folded down to create a large, flat cargo area. The Pathfinder SL Premium is also packed with technology features. It has a large touchscreen infotainment system that's easy to use and provides access to a variety of features, including navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. There are also multiple USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a premium audio system. These features add to the overall comfort and convenience of the Pathfinder. The Pathfinder's interior is a comfortable and well-appointed space that's perfect for families. The high-quality materials, spacious seating, and advanced features create a pleasant driving experience. The interior has been completely revamped, with a focus on comfort, style, and practicality. The SL Premium trim provides premium features, including leather seats and a panoramic sunroof, which add to the luxurious feel. The interior is well-designed with an intuitive layout and high-quality materials. The space is used efficiently, offering a comfortable environment for passengers in all three rows.
Seating and Space
The Pathfinder offers three rows of seating, making it a great option for families. The seats are comfortable, with ample legroom and headroom in the second row. The third row provides adequate space, and the second row offers easy access. With the seats folded down, there is a lot of cargo space available.
Technology and Features
The Pathfinder is equipped with an advanced infotainment system, multiple USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a premium audio system. These features enhance the driving experience and provide convenience for the driver and passengers. The technology integration makes the Pathfinder a modern and user-friendly SUV.
Technology and Infotainment: Staying Connected
Techies, this section is for you! The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder SL Premium is loaded with technology designed to keep you connected and entertained. The centerpiece of the tech suite is the infotainment system. It features a large touchscreen display that's intuitive and easy to use. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system. This means you can access your favorite apps, make calls, send texts, and listen to music directly from the touchscreen. The Pathfinder also comes with a digital dashboard, which provides a wealth of information in a clear and customizable format. You can display everything from your speed and fuel economy to navigation directions and driver-assistance warnings. For audiophiles, the Pathfinder SL Premium offers a premium audio system. This system delivers high-quality sound throughout the cabin, making your listening experience more enjoyable. The Pathfinder is also equipped with a variety of driver-assistance features. These include things like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. These features are designed to enhance safety and make driving easier and more convenient. In addition to these features, the Pathfinder offers a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing you to stay connected on the go. There are also multiple USB ports and a wireless charging pad, so you can easily charge your devices. Nissan has done a great job integrating technology into the Pathfinder, making it a modern and user-friendly SUV. The large touchscreen display, smartphone integration, digital dashboard, and premium audio system combine to create a pleasant driving experience. The advanced driver-assistance features add an extra layer of safety and convenience. The Pathfinder SL Premium is well-equipped with technology that elevates the driving experience. The infotainment system, with its large touchscreen display, provides seamless smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The digital dashboard offers clear and customizable information, while the premium audio system enhances entertainment. Advanced driver-assistance systems provide added safety and convenience. The Pathfinder is designed to keep you connected, informed, and entertained on the road.
Infotainment System and Smartphone Integration
The large touchscreen display provides an intuitive interface, supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and seamlessly integrates your smartphone. This ensures you can access your favorite apps, make calls, and listen to music easily.
Driver-Assistance Features and Safety Tech
The Pathfinder is equipped with a suite of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features enhance safety and make driving easier and more convenient, providing an added layer of security on the road.
Safety Features: Keeping You and Your Family Safe
Safety is paramount, right? The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder SL Premium doesn't disappoint in this area. Nissan has equipped the Pathfinder with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features use sensors and cameras to monitor the road and provide alerts when potential hazards are detected. In the event of a collision, the Pathfinder is designed to protect occupants with a strong safety cage and a variety of airbags. The Pathfinder has earned high safety ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These ratings are a testament to the Pathfinder's commitment to safety. The ProPILOT Assist system is also available on certain trims. ProPILOT Assist combines adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist, making highway driving easier and less stressful. This system can automatically maintain a set speed and distance from the vehicle in front, while also keeping the Pathfinder centered in its lane. The Pathfinder is designed to keep you and your family safe on the road. It has a comprehensive suite of safety features, high safety ratings, and advanced driver-assistance systems. The standard safety features provide protection against potential hazards. The Pathfinder SL Premium offers a secure and protected driving experience. The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder has the features to keep you safe on the road.
Standard Safety Features
The Pathfinder comes standard with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features provide a strong foundation for safety, enhancing the driver's awareness of potential hazards and helping to prevent accidents.
Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems
The ProPILOT Assist system combines adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist, making highway driving easier and less stressful. This system is designed to provide convenience and safety, reducing driver fatigue and enhancing overall safety.
Trim Levels and Pricing: Finding the Right Fit
The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder is available in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and options. The base trim is the S, which comes with a good set of standard features at an affordable price. Moving up the line, you'll find the SV, which adds features like a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, and a more advanced infotainment system. The SL trim, where our SL Premium fits in, adds features like leather-appointed seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system. Finally, there's the Platinum trim, which offers the most luxurious features, including premium leather seats, a digital dashboard, and a head-up display. Pricing for the Pathfinder varies depending on the trim level and options. The S trim is the most affordable, while the Platinum trim is the most expensive. The Pathfinder offers a good value proposition, especially when compared to its competitors. The Pathfinder's trim levels are designed to offer a variety of features and options to suit different budgets and needs. The SL Premium trim strikes a good balance between value and features, offering a comfortable and well-equipped SUV at a reasonable price. The Pathfinder has multiple trim levels, which allows you to customize and find the perfect trim for your budget and feature requirements.
Trims and Features
The Pathfinder is available in multiple trims, including S, SV, SL, and Platinum, each with a range of features. The SL Premium offers a balance of comfort, luxury, and technology. The trim level is suitable for different budgets and needs, making the Pathfinder accessible to a wider audience.
Pricing and Value
The pricing of the Pathfinder varies depending on the trim level and options. The Pathfinder provides a competitive value proposition in its class.
Pros and Cons: What You Need to Know
To give you a complete picture, let's look at the pros and cons of the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder SL Premium. This will help you weigh your options and decide if it's the right SUV for you.
Pros
- Comfortable and Spacious Interior: The Pathfinder offers a comfortable ride and plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The seats are well-designed and supportive, and the second and third rows are surprisingly spacious.
- User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The digital dashboard and driver-assistance features add to the overall convenience.
- Capable Performance: The V6 engine provides ample power for daily driving and towing, and the AWD system offers excellent traction in various conditions. The 9-speed transmission improves the driving experience.
- Stylish and Modern Design: The redesigned exterior gives the Pathfinder a more modern and attractive appearance. The interior is also well-designed and stylish, with high-quality materials.
- Competitive Value: The Pathfinder offers a good value proposition, with a competitive price and a comprehensive set of features.
Cons
- Fuel Economy: The Pathfinder's fuel economy could be better, especially compared to some of its competitors. However, this is expected in the mid-size SUV class.
- Some Interior Plastics: While the interior materials are generally of high quality, some of the plastics could be improved. This does not impact the overall comfort and feel, but could be a slight improvement.
- Third-Row Access: Accessing the third row could be easier for adults. The sliding and tilting mechanism is helpful, but it can still be a bit tight.
- Ride Quality: While the ride is generally comfortable, it can feel a bit firm on rough roads. It is a well-balanced compromise of ride quality and handling.
Conclusion: Is the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder SL Premium the Right SUV for You?
So, after a thorough review, what's the verdict? The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder SL Premium is a compelling choice in the mid-size SUV segment. It offers a winning combination of comfort, practicality, technology, and style. The interior is spacious and well-appointed, the technology is user-friendly, and the performance is capable. While it has some minor drawbacks, such as fuel economy and some interior plastics, these are relatively minor compared to its strengths. The Pathfinder SL Premium is an excellent option for families and anyone looking for a versatile and comfortable SUV. The Pathfinder is a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. If you're looking for an SUV that can handle your daily commute, weekend adventures, and family trips, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder SL Premium is definitely worth considering. It's a stylish, comfortable, and capable SUV that's sure to impress. Overall, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder SL Premium is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a mid-size SUV. With its blend of comfort, practicality, technology, and style, it offers a lot of value for the money. The Pathfinder is a well-rounded SUV that is definitely worth considering. If you're in the market for a new SUV, be sure to take a closer look at the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder SL Premium. You might just find that it's the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Happy driving!