2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 showcased a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti design elements, maintaining a body-on-frame construction that was shared with the Armada. This construction choice, while less common among modern SUVs, provided a robust foundation. The QX80's front end was distinctly Infiniti, featuring a grille and headlight design that aligned with the brand's smaller SUVs, offering an assertive yet not overly aggressive appearance. Standard LED lighting and large alloy wheels added to its luxury appeal. Inside, the QX80's interior closely resembled the Armada, with enhancements like wood trim and leather upholstery, though it retained some Nissan elements, such as the dashboard layout and switchgear. While the interior felt luxurious, it lacked the exclusivity some buyers might expect from a high-end vehicle.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder embraced a new era of design, drawing inspiration from its predecessors while incorporating modern touches. The front featured a reimagined V-motion grille, flanked by LED headlights and slim daytime running lights, creating a bold and contemporary look. The Pathfinder's side panels and hood contributed to a beefier appearance, aligning with current SUV trends. The vehicle's dimensions were slightly altered to enhance its road presence, offering more legroom and a wider track. The Pathfinder was available in various trims, each with distinct features, and offered a range of paint options. The interior was designed with family use in mind, providing flexible seating arrangements and thoughtful innovations like the EZ Flex Latch and Glide system for easy third-row access. The Pathfinder's interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage solutions and advanced climate control features.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a 5.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, four-wheel drive was standard, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The QX80's independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control provided a comfortable ride, though it exhibited some body roll in corners. Its towing capacity was impressive at 3,855 kilograms, surpassing competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Despite its size, the QX80 offered a quiet interior and a relaxed driving experience, though its steering was slow but precise.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with a new 9-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous CVT, and offered smooth gear transitions. Standard all-wheel drive in Canada, along with hill descent control and multiple drive modes, enhanced its versatility. The Pathfinder's suspension improvements provided a stable ride, and its tight turning radius made it easy to maneuver. With a towing capacity of 2,720 kilograms, the Pathfinder was equipped for family adventures, though its transmission occasionally required recalibration at speed.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 offered a seven-seat configuration with second-row captain’s chairs, or an eight-seat option on the ProACTIVE grade. The front seats were adjustable and included heating and cooling, though they lacked thigh support. Passenger space was ample, with competitive room in all three rows, though cargo space was limited compared to rivals. The QX80 featured a power liftgate and folding third row, but storage solutions were somewhat limited, with small centre console space and poorly shaped cupholders.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder prioritized interior comfort and flexibility, with sound-reducing features and spacious seating arrangements. The Pathfinder accommodated up to five car seats and offered best-in-class front-seat legroom. Innovations like the EZ Flex Latch and Glide system and removable second-row centre console enhanced usability. The Pathfinder provided generous cargo space, with 470 litres behind the third row and up to 2,421 litres with seats folded. The interior was well-equipped with storage solutions and climate control features, ensuring comfort for all passengers.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured the Infiniti InTouch dual-screen infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 17-speaker Bose audio system. However, the user interface was complex, with small screens and confusing controls. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor added convenience, but the overall tech experience was hindered by usability issues.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder was equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology, including an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 7-inch digital driver-information display. Upper trims offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 13-speaker Bose audio system. The Pathfinder's tech was user-friendly and accessible across various trim levels, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The ProACTIVE grade included additional safety interventions, though the QX80 lacked testing from the IIHS.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, offering features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Upper trims included a surround-view monitor, and the Pathfinder boasted ten airbags, with an additional airbag on the Platinum trim. Neither the IIHS nor the NHTSA had crash-tested the 2022 model.