2023 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX was a pioneer in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a compact exterior with a surprisingly spacious interior. This new generation was built on a dedicated platform, distinct from the Honda Pilot, with enhanced proportions including a longer wheelbase, wider body, and increased dash-to-axle distance for a more elegant appearance. The MDX featured standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels, contributing to a sportier and modern exterior design. Inside, the MDX boasted a modernized cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, complemented by high-quality plastics. The dashboard was designed to emphasize cabin width, and the unique gear selection system added a touch of sophistication. The MDX was crafted in East Liberty, Ohio, showcasing high craftsmanship and quality.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder carried over its redesign from the previous year, maintaining a blend of traditional and forward-thinking design elements. Its futuristic headlights and angular C-pillar contributed to a modern aesthetic that was expected to remain relevant for years. Inside, the Pathfinder offered a clean and sensible layout, making it both visually appealing and practical. The Pathfinder's trims in Canada included S, SV, Rock Creek, SL, SL Premium, and Platinum, each offering varying levels of standard equipment. The Rock Creek trim, in particular, provided a rugged off-road experience with unique styling elements and a water-repellent interior. The Pathfinder's cabin was designed for comfort and utility, with features like a panoramic moonroof, leather seats, and a Bose premium audio system available on higher trims.

The 2022 Acura MDX was equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) as standard in Canada. The SH-AWD system offered torque vectoring, enhancing cornering feel and control by directing up to 70% of torque to the rear wheels and 100% to either side during cornering. The MDX's suspension was upgraded with a double-wishbone setup in the front and revised rear multi-link suspension for improved ride quality. The vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were enhanced, providing a solid ride feel. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor performance to their preferences.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. The Rock Creek trim offered a slight power increase to 295 hp and 270 lb-ft. The Pathfinder featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The Rock Creek trim included off-road shocks and a taller suspension for added off-road capability. The Pathfinder's ride was smooth and quiet, although the unique shifter design was noted as potentially distracting. The vehicle offered multiple drive modes, including Eco, Sport, Normal, and off-road-specific modes like Sand and Mud/Rut. The Pathfinder's towing capacity was impressive, with the Rock Creek capable of towing up to 2,720 kilograms.

The 2022 Acura MDX provided versatile seating arrangements with comfortable first and second rows, and a third row suitable for smaller passengers. The second row featured a removable centre section and could slide to balance legroom. The MDX offered between 461 and 512 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expandable to 2,690 litres with the second row folded. The power tailgate included features like "Walk Away Close" and Hands-Free Access. Interior lighting was customizable with 27 themes, enhancing the cabin's ambiance.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder offered up to 2,279 litres of cargo space with the second and third rows folded. With all seats upright, it provided 470 litres of cargo space. The first two rows offered ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for shorter trips. The Platinum trim featured second-row captain's chairs with a removable centre console. The Pathfinder included 12 cupholders and four bottle holders, along with various cubbies for storage. The Rock Creek trim's roof racks were practical, supporting up to 100 kilograms of cargo.

The 2022 Acura MDX featured the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System on higher trims, offering 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. All models came with a 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel. The MDX included Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. A head-up display and surround-view camera were available on the Platinum Elite trim.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 9-inch version on higher trims. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with logical menu layouts and real buttons for ease of use. The Pathfinder included Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, and a WiFi hotspot. Higher trims added features like wireless device charging and additional USB ports.

The 2022 Acura MDX was rated as a "Top Safety Pick +" by the IIHS, with top marks in every category. It featured a high-strength steel structure and advanced safety systems, including low-speed braking control and collision mitigation throttle control. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features was standard, offering technologies like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It included standard driver-assistance features like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added features like a 360-degree parking monitor and traffic-sign recognition. The Pathfinder's off-road mode provided front- and side-view cameras for obstacle monitoring.