2024 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2023 Pathfinder vs 2022 Pathfinder: Which Version of this Mid-Size SUV is Best?

Shopping for a new SUV? The Nissan Pathfinder is a great option! With room for up to eight, ample cargo space, and an affordable price tag, there’s a lot to love about this mid-sized SUV.

Read on to learn more about the 2024, 2023, and 2022 models, then visit Nissan of Orangeburg to find your new ride!

Vehicles  (All S Trims)	2024 Nissan Pathfinder	2023 Nissan Pathfinder	2022 Nissan Pathfinder
MSRP*	$36,080	$35,320	$34,640
Body Style	3 Row Midsize SUV	3 Row Midsize SUV	3 Row Midsize SUV
Drivetrain	2WD	2WD	2WD
Engine	V6 3.5 Liter	V6 3.5 Liter	V6 3.5 Liter
Transmission	9 Speed Automatic with Manual Mode	9 Speed Automatic with Manual Mode	9 Speed Automatic with Manual Mode
Horsepower	284@6,400 rpm	284@6,400 rpm	284@6,400 rpm
Torque	259@4,800 rpm	259@4,800 rpm	259@4,800 rpm
Fuel Type	Regular Unleaded (Rock Creek trim recommends premium gas)	Regular Unleaded (Rock Creek trim recommends premium gas)	Regular Unleaded (Rock Creek trim recommends premium gas)
Fuel (MPG)	20 city / 27 hwy	20 city / 27 hwy	21 city / 26 hwy
Tank Capacity	18.5 gal.	18.5 gal.	18.5 gal.
Seating Capacity	8	8	8
Cargo Volume to Seat 1	80.5 cu.ft.	80.5 cu.ft.	80.5 cu.ft.
Cargo Volume to Seat 2	45 cu.ft.	45 cu.ft.	45 cu.ft.
Cargo Volume to Seat 3	16.6 cu.ft.	16.6 cu.ft.	16.6 cu.ft.
Overall Width (w/o mirrors)	77.9 in	77.9 in.	77.9 in.
Height	70.9 in.	70.9 in.	70.9 in.
Length	197.7 in.	197.7 in.	197.7 in.
Wheelbase	114.2 in.	114.2 in.	114.2 in.
Payload	1,583 lb.	1,583 lb.	1,583 lb.
Tow Capacity	3,500 lb.	3,500 lb.	3,500 lb.
Wheels	18" Alloy all-season tires	18" Alloy all-season tires	18" Alloy all-season tires
Trims	S, SV, SL, Rock Creek, and Platinum	S, SV, SL, Rock Creek, and Platinum	S, SV, SL and Platinum

2024: The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) V6 engine and 9-speed automatic transmission. It’s available in five trims: S, SV, Rock Creek, SL, and Platinum. The base model–S FWD–starts at just under $37,000 and the top-of-the-line Platinum AWD starts at around $52,000. Pathfinder is an affordable mid-size SUV, but we think the middle-of-the-road Rock Creek model, which has a starting price of just under $45,000, offers the best bargain.

2023: The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder has a new starting price of $35,320. The cabin is rugged yet modern and is more spacious than the 2022 model. It also offers a quieter ride than the previous year’s model. With near best-in-class towing capacity and the new Rock Creek trim, the 2023 Pathfinder is definitely worth a second look.

2022: The 2022 Pathfinder started at just $34,640 and received a full redesign from the 2021 model. This model has more traditional SUV styling, paying homage to the Pathfinders of the mid-1980s. In addition to a new look, the 2022 model gained an AWD system, a more upscale interior, and a second-row captain’s chair option. 

New Features

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What’s New for the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder

• The 2024 Pathfinder remains unchanged from the 2023 model.
• The Rock Creek Edition–first introduced in 2023–continues to be available in 2024.

What’s New for the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder 

• Introduction of Rock Creek Model:
  • Nissan added a rugged and trail-ready Rock Creek model to the Pathfinder lineup in 2023.
  • This trim includes a slightly lifted suspension and 18-inch all-terrain tires on unique wheels.
  • Revised front grille and lower bumper.
  • All-wheel drive is standard.
  • The V6 engine delivers 295 horsepower in the Rock Creek model.
  • The unique interior includes special cloth and vinyl upholstery, orange stitching, and Rock Creek badges.

What’s New for the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

• All-New Design:
  • The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder received a complete redesign.
  • This model returned to its rugged roots with retro design cues like a painted diagonal C-pillar.
  • It has evolved into a family-friendly mid-size SUV with three rows of seating and room for up to eight.
• Exterior and Off-Road Capability:
  • The rugged exterior design aligns perfectly with its off-road capabilities.
  • Retro design cues appeal to Pathfinder enthusiasts.
• Interior and Family-Friendly Features:
  • Spacious 3-row seating is perfect for families.
  • Modern safety technology comes standard.
  • Available features include a second-row center console.
  • The third row is easy to access thanks to a clever tilting and sliding system on the second-row seats.
• Considerations:
  • Ideal for anyone seeking a modern family SUV with rugged characteristics.

Performance

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2024 Nissan Pathfinder Performance

• Engine Performance:
  • Rock Creek model delivers 295 horsepower and 270 lb.-ft. of torque with higher-octane premium fuel.
  • All other trims provide 284 horsepower and 259 lb.-ft. of torque.
• Acceleration:
  • Accelerates to 60 MPH in approximately 6.6 seconds.
• Fuel Economy:
  • FWD and AWD versions of the S and SV have the best fuel economy in the lineup, getting a combined 23 MPG city/highway.
  • Pathfinder FWD's fuel economy is comparable to that of the 2024 Kia Telluride FWD and 2023 Honda Pilot FWD.
• Drivetrain Configurations:
  • Available in both FWD and AWD configurations.
  • Equipped with a 3.5-liter naturally-aspirated V-6 engine and nine-speed automatic transmission.

2023 Nissan Pathfinder Performance

• Engine:
  • Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine.
  • Generates 284 horsepower and 259 lb.-ft. of torque.
• Transmission:
  • Equipped with a standard 9-speed automatic transmission.
• Towing Capacity:
  • Best-in-class towing capacity of 6,000 pounds when equipped with the Tow Package.
  • Can tow smaller RVs starting at around 5,200 pounds.
• Performance Metrics:
  • Average power, torque, and fuel economy for its class.
  • Gets an EPA combined fuel economy of 23 MPG.
  • Different trims and drivetrain configurations net different fuel economy.

2022 Nissan Pathfinder Performance

• Engine:
  • Has a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 284 horsepower and 259 lb.-ft. of torque.
• Transmission:
  • A 9-speed automatic transmission comes standard.
  • Offers better performance on-road and off-road than the outgoing CVT transmission.
• Towing Capacity:
  • Best-in-class towing capacity of 6,000 pounds when equipped with the Tow Package.
  • Can tow smaller RVs starting at around 5,200 pounds.
• Performance Metrics:
  • Average power, torque, and fuel economy for its class.
  • EPA city/highway fuel economy: 21/26 MPG (FWD), 21/27 MPG (S, SV, SL AWD), 20/25 MPG (Platinum AWD).

Technology

2024 Nissan Pathfinder Technology

• Infotainment System:
  • Standard 8.0-inch touchscreen with NissanConnect software. SL and Platinum models have a 9.0-inch display.
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility come standard.
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay is available on upper trims.
• Digital Displays:
  • Optional 12.3-inch digital gauge display.
  • The base model is outfitted with a 7.0-inch gauge cluster display.
• Audio and Connectivity:
  • Standard six-speaker stereo with optional 13-speaker Bose system.
  • SiriusXM satellite radio is optional.
  • Onboard Wi-Fi hotspot.
  • Wireless smartphone charging pad.
• Trim-Specific Features:
  • SV Trim: Remote start, power driver's seat, and heated front seats.
  • SL Trim: Automatic tilting side mirrors, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless phone charging pad, and power front passenger seat.
  • Platinum Trim: Power-folding side mirrors, hands-free power liftgate, ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, 12.3-inch gauge cluster screen, head-up display, and 13-speaker Bose premium audio system.

2023 Nissan Pathfinder Technology

• Digital Gauge Cluster:
  • 12.3-inch fully digital display, standard in Platinum trim.
  • Customizable with various information like warnings, settings, sound-system info, and safety systems.
• Connectivity and Infotainment:
  • Wi-Fi and NissanConnect Services powered by SiriusXM.
  • Upgraded 9-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay.
  • Wireless smartphone charging.
• Bose Audio System:
  • Standard in Platinum trim, optional on SL models.
  • 13-speaker system with a subwoofer, delivering exceptional audio quality.
• ProPilot Assist:
  • Semi-autonomous driver-assistance system combines adaptive cruise control and steering assist.
• Surround-View Camera:
  • Standard from SL trim.
  • Provides a 360-degree bird’s-eye view for easier parking.
  • In the Rock Creek trim, it shows terrain in front when in 4WD mode, which is useful for off-road navigation.
• Hands-Free Power Liftgate:
  • Swipe your foot under the rear bumper if you have the key fob and it will open automatically.
• EZ Flex Seats:
  • One-touch operation to release, fold forward, and slide middle-row seats for easy third-row access.
• Platinum Trim Exclusive Features:
  • 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster.
  • 10.8-inch head-up display.
  • Wireless charging.
  • Semi-aniline leather seats.

2022 Nissan Pathfinder Technology

• Displays and Navigation:
  • Optional 12.3-inch digital gauge display.
  • Customizable digital displays for Digital Dashboard, Head-Up Display, and Touch Screen Display.
  • Optional in-dash navigation system.
  • Optional head-up display.
• Audio and Connectivity:
  • Standard six-speaker stereo.
  • Optional 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio System.
  • Optional SiriusXM satellite radio.
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
  • Optional wireless smartphone charging pad.
  • On-board Wi-Fi hotspot.
  • Available USB ports and outlets.
• Wireless and Remote Features:
  • Wireless connectivity with wireless charging.
  • NissanConnect Services for remote access, customizable alerts, and emergency preparedness settings.

Appearance 

2024

2024 Interior: 

• Interior Comfort:
  • Easy-to-use Tri-Zone automatic temperature control keeps everyone comfortable.
  • Noise-dampening features quieten wind and road noise levels in the cabin.
• Cargo Space:
  • 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which expands to 45 cubic feet with the third row folded.
  • Cargo capacity maxes out at 80.5 cubic feet with second and third rows folded.
  • Plenty of storage options for small items like sunglasses, chargers, and children’s items.
  • Best tow rating in its class. The standard towing capacity is 3,500 pounds, which increases to 6,000 pounds with the towing package.

2024 Exterior:

• Exterior Design: 
  • Stunning design that demands attention on the road.
• Roof Rail Crossbars:
  • Ideal for thrill seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Perfect for carrying extra cargo or sports equipment like bicycles, canoes, or skis.
• Wheels:
  • 18-inch alloy wheels balance style and performance.
  • Provide stability and traction for a smooth and comfortable ride.
• LED Fog Lights:
  • Bright and efficient illumination for enhanced visibility during fog, rain, or snow.

2023

2023 Interior: 

• Seating Configuration:
  • Second-row captain's chairs with a removable center console provide room for up to seven.
  • The standard center bench increases seating capacity to eight.
  • Four cup holders and two USB ports in the reclining third-row seat area.
• Interior Design:
  • Modern and spacious look.
  • Standard 8-inch color touchscreen with an available 9-inch screen.
  • Available 12.3-inch digital instrument panel with multiple screen options.
  • Available 10.8-inch head-up display for vehicle speed and navigation on the windshield.
  • Uniquely shaped air vents interlocking with soft dash surfaces.
  • Electronic shifter on a bridge-style center console with a storage cubby below.
• Upholstery and Lighting:
  • Cloth and leather upholstery in a range of colors.
  • Seven interior environments, including one with brushed bronze metallic accents.
  • Ambient interior lighting for a nice cabin environment.
  • Four USB ports and two 12-volt power outlets.
• Second-Row Features:
  • One-touch release for easy fold and slide forward, making third-row entry/exit simple.
  • The operation does not interfere with child seats.
• Cargo Space:
  • Space behind the third row fits a 120-quart cooler or four golf bags.

2023 Exterior:

• Design Inspiration: 
  • The strong and capable look was inspired by adventure gear.
• Front Features: 
  • Blunter face, flatter hood, wider stance, prominent fender flares, reduced front and rear overhangs.
• Tires: 
  • Larger tires enhance the rugged SUV look.
• Grille: 
  • Corporate V-Motion grille with three slots paying tribute to the original 1986 Pathfinder.
• C-Pillars: 
  • Floating C-pillars mimic the angle of the original Pathfinder's side windows.
• Paint: 
  • Available two-tone paint schemes.
• Headlights: 
  • Standard LED headlights with slim upper daytime running lights.
• Side Design: 
  • U-shaped elements link powerful fender blisters for a muscular look.
• Rear Features: 
  • Boxy look with slim but wide LED tail lights; "Pathfinder" in oversized satin chrome letters on the liftgate.

2022

2022 Interior: 

• Seating Options:
  • First-time availability of second-row captain’s chairs for a 2-2-3 configuration with a removable center console.
  • The standard center bench provides room for eight.
• Interior Design:
  • Modern and spacious.
  • Available 12.3-inch digital instrument panel with various screen options.
  • Available 10.8-inch head-up display for vehicle speed and navigation on the windshield.
• Touchscreen and Controls:
  • Standard 8-inch (available 9-inch color touchscreen) is high on the center console.
  • Unique air vents interlocking with soft dash surfaces.
  • New electronic shifter on a bridge-style center console with storage cubby below.
• Upholstery and Lighting:
  • Cloth and leather upholstery in various colors.
  • Seven interior environments, including one with brushed bronze metallic accents.
  • Ambient interior lighting for a pleasant cabin experience.
  • Four USB ports and two 12-volt power outlets.
• Second-Row Features:
  • One-touch release for easy fold and slide forward, easing third-row entry/exit.
• Cargo Space:
  • Space behind the third row fits a 120-quart cooler or four golf bags.

2022 Exterior:

• Design Inspiration:
  • Inspired by outdoor gear and styled to look stronger, purposeful, and capable.
• Front Features: 
  • Blunter face, flatter hood, wider stance, prominent fender flares, reduced front and rear overhangs.
• Tires: 
  • Larger tires contribute to the rugged SUV appearance.
• Grille: 
  • Corporate V-Motion grille with three slots paying tribute to the original 1986 Pathfinder.
• C-Pillars: 
  • Floating C-pillars mimic the angle of the original Pathfinder's side windows.
• Paint: 
  • First-time two-tone paint has been used on a Pathfinder.
• Headlights: 
  • Standard LED headlights with slim upper daytime running lights.
• Side Design: 
  • U-shaped elements link powerful fender blisters for a muscular look.
• Rear Features: 
  • Boxy look with slim but wide LED tail lights; "Pathfinder" in oversized satin chrome letters on the liftgate.

Color Options

2024 Nissan Pathfinder Color Options

• Super Black
• Scarlet Ember Tintcoat
• Pearl White Tricoat
• Gun Metallic
• Deep Ocean Blue Pearl
• Brilliant Silver Metallic
• Two-Tone Available

2023 Nissan Pathfinder Color Options

• Scarlet Ember Tintcoat 
• Obsidian Green Pearl
• Deep Ocean Blue Pearl
• Baja Storm Metallic 
• Super Black
• Boulder Gray Pearl 
• Gun Metallic
• Brilliant Silver Metallic
• Pearl White TriCoat
• Glacier White
• Two-Tone Available

2022 Nissan Pathfinder Color Options

• Brilliant Silver Metallic
• Gun Metallic.
• Super Black
• Deep Ocean Blue Pearl
• Obsidian Green Pearl
• Scarlet Ember Tintcoat
• Mocha Almond Pearl
• Two-Tone Available

Safety

2024 Nissan Pathfinder Safety Features

• Safety Ratings:
  • 5-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
• Nissan Safety Shield® 360:
  • Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection alerts and applies brakes to avoid collisions.
  • Blind Spot Warning alerts when a vehicle is in your blind spot.
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert warns of approaching vehicles when backing out.
  • Lane Departure Warning alerts if you drift out of your lane.
  • High Beam Assist automatically dims high beams for oncoming traffic.
  • Rear Automatic Braking automatically brakes to avoid stationary objects when in reverse.
• Driver Assistance Technology:
  • Nissan’s ProPilot Assist suite comes standard and includes features like adaptive cruise control and a lane-centering system.
  • Anti-lock brakes (ABS) automatically sense when a tire stops rotating under extreme braking.
  • Stability control reduces engine power and/or applies brakes to prevent loss of control.
• Safety Airbags:
  • Front-impact airbags are designed to protect the driver’s and passenger’s head during a frontal crash.
  • Side-impact airbags protect the torso during side-impact collisions for front and rear seats.
  • Overhead airbags protect the head inside from collisions or rollovers.
  • Knee airbags protect the legs from serious injury in accidents.
• Additional Safety Features:
  • Pretensioners automatically tighten seat belts during a collision.
  • Security systems prevent vehicle break-ins, including an ignition disabled device to prevent the engine from starting without the correct key.

2023 Nissan Pathfinder Safety Features

• Safety Ratings:
  • IIHS Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+): Gold standard safety rating.
  • NHTSA 5-Star Rating.
• Nissan Safety Shield® 360
  • Nissan’s Full Safety Package System
  • Driver Assistance
  • Safety Bags

2022 Nissan Pathfinder Safety Features

• Safety Rating:
  • 5-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
• Nissan Safety Shield® 360:
  • Nissan’s Full Safety Package System
  • Driver Assistance
  • Safety Bags

Advantages & Disadvantages of the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder

2024 Nissan Pathfinder Advantages

• Good power
• Comfortable cruiser
• Easy third-row entry/exit

Possible Disadvantage

• Average fuel economy

2023 Nissan Pathfinder Advantages

• Convenient interior storage cubbies 
• Generous maximum towing capability 
• The cabin is well-isolated from the road

Possible Disadvantage

• Less off-road capability

2022 Nissan Pathfinder Advantages

• Rugged new appearance
• 9-speed automatic replaces CVT
• Seats up to 8

Possible Disadvantage

• Wireless Android Auto is not available

Which Nissan Pathfinder Do You Choose?

If you’re in the market for a mid-size SUV, the Nissan Pathfinder is a fantastic choice! Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, road trips, and daily driving, it’s a reliable SUV the entire family will love.

When you’re ready to buy a new SUV or new Nissan, stop by Nissan of Orangeburg! We have a wide variety of new cars for sale, including SUVs, trucks, EVs, and more.

Lowcountry drivers from Charleston to Columbia trust us when it’s time for a new Nissan! Come see us today to get behind the wheel of your new Nissan right here in Orangeburg, SC!

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Nissan of Orangeburg believes the information and specifications on this website to be correct at the time of publishing.

Model specifications provided may vary based on selected trim, pricing, options, and installed accessories. Specifications, standard features, options, fabrics, accessories, colors, and other features related to the vehicles are subject to change without notice.

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