2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, maintaining its traditional styling while adding a touch of modern character. The XC90 retained its boxy profile and blunt front end, but with softer lines and more chrome detailing, it offered a fresh take on Volvo's conservative image. The LED headlights with "Thor's Hammer" daytime running lights were a distinctive feature that blended seamlessly with the overall design. The Inscription trim, with its extra chrome trim and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most eye-catching, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. Inside, the XC90 embraced Swedish minimalism with high-quality materials and thoughtful design, featuring matte-finish wood trim and unique upholstery options like wool and Nappa leather. The Orrefors crystal shifter added a touch of luxury to the otherwise restrained interior.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder embraced a new era of SUV design with styling cues that paid homage to its roots while incorporating modern elements. The front featured a new V-motion grille, flanked by LED headlights and slim daytime running lights, creating a bold and robust aesthetic. The Pathfinder's side panels and hood gave it a beefier look, aligning with contemporary SUV trends. The vehicle was slightly wider and taller, offering more legroom and a planted appearance on the road. The Pathfinder came in four trim levels, each with body-colour door handles, chrome badging, and a chrome grille. The interior was designed with family flexibility in mind, offering features like wide-opening doors, second-row captain's chairs, and the ability to accommodate multiple car seats. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide system made accessing the third row easy, while the removable second-row centre console added practicality. The Pathfinder's interior was spacious and comfortable, with heated and ventilated seats available in higher trims.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all centred around a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The T6 variant added a supercharger, boosting output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid combined the T6 engine with electric motors, delivering a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. While the XC90 provided ample power, the small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' larger engines. The XC90's ride quality was excellent, aided by an optional air-suspension system, and it offered a respectable 2,250-kilogram towing capacity.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a new 9-speed automatic transmission, the Pathfinder offered smooth gear transitions. Standard all-wheel-drive in Canada, along with hill descent control and seven drive modes, enhanced its capability. The Pathfinder's suspension provided a stable ride, and its tight turning radius made it easy to manoeuvre. With a 6,000-pound towing capacity, the Pathfinder excelled in towing stability, aided by trailer sway control technology.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered six or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom across its three rows. The third row was tight for adults, and seats lacked support. The interior felt spacious due to an optional power sunroof and upright roof profile. Storage space was limited, with a shallow centre console and minimal storage options. Cargo capacity was 317 litres with all seats in place, expanding to 1,815 litres with the second and third rows folded.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder prioritized interior comfort and flexibility. Enhanced insulation reduced road noise, and the interior offered best-in-class front-seat legroom and increased hip room for third-row passengers. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide system facilitated third-row access, and the removable second-row centre console added practicality. The Pathfinder provided 470 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,421 litres with all seats folded. The interior featured abundant storage, including a spacious front centre console and under-floor cargo space.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The system was user-friendly, with a portrait-oriented touchscreen and minimal analog controls. However, the text and typeface made reading menus difficult while driving. The XC90 offered a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and head-up display as options.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came equipped with a wealth of technology, including an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 7-inch digital driver-information display. Upper trims featured a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. A 13-speaker Bose audio system was available on higher trims, enhancing the audio experience.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received top safety ratings, with the non-hybrid models earning a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder featured the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite as standard, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. A rearview camera was standard, with a surround-view monitor available on upper trims. The Pathfinder had ten airbags, with an additional airbag on the Platinum trim.