Nissan has announced the all-new 2022 Pathfinder SUV, which features a new nine-speed transmission and an updated, more rugged looking exterior.

The Frontier’s new nine-speed transmission is mated to a 3.5L Direct Injection V6 engine that features 284 hp and 259 lb.-ft. of torque, the automaker announced. The updated SUV will be offered in 2WD and 4WD and in four trim levels – S, SV, SL and Platinum. Two packages – SV Premium and SL Premium – are also available, Nissan said.

Pathfinder 4WD drive models will feature the automaker’s all-new Intelligent 4WD that allows drivers to switch between seven different driving styles that suit the terrain, this includes standard, sport, eco, snow, sand, mud/rut and tow options. The 4WD system features direct coupling, which allows torque transfer directly on the clutch pack that offers immediate take-off in low-traction situations. 

The 2022 Pathfinder also features an available 6,000-pound maximum towing capacity.

The inside of the new Pathfinder includes a number of new updates for the SUV, including a new, available 12.3-inch digital dashboard, along with an available 10.8-inch head-up display. There will also be an available 9.0-inch color touchscreen center display. An additional, new "bridge" front center console allows extra storage space underneath, Nissan said.

The 2022 Pathfinder also features standard eight-passenger capacity and an available second row captain's chairs, with a removable center console. The SUV features a 60/40 split folding third-row seat.

Other available interior features include a 10-way power driver's seat, climate controlled front seats, Tri-Zone Automatic Temperature Control with second-row climate control, and heated rear seats, Nissan said.

NissanConnect featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard on the 2022 Pathfinder, as is Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite of safety advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) technologies.

Other available features include NissanConnect with WiFi Hot Spot, a wireless smartphone charging pad, wireless Apple CarPlay, Intelligent Around View Monitor, which features a higher resolution and wider image viewing angle than the previous model, and other new technological capabilities.

The SV and SL grades offer Nissan's ProPILOT Assist, which is a driver-assist technology that reduces stop-and-go highway driving by combining steering assist and Intelligent Cruise Control to help control acceleration, braking, and steering, Nissan said. The Pathfinder Platinum grade adds the new ProPILOT Assist with Navi-link, which helps proactively reduce speed for upcoming freeway curves or junctions and also help the driver slow for freeway exits.  

The 2022 Pathfinder will be available at dealerships in summer 2021.