2023 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Lexus RX presented a modern and sporty design, continuing the aesthetic updates from its 2020 facelift. Available in both standard and long-wheelbase versions, the RX 350 offered seating for five, while the RX 450h hybrid model provided a three-row, 7-passenger option. The RX's exterior was characterized by sharp character lines and angular features, creating an aggressive yet restrained look. The F Sport models enhanced this sporty appearance with 20-inch wheels, unique front fascia, and additional performance-oriented features. Inside, the RX maintained a luxurious feel, with F Sport models adding sporty elements like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. However, the interior design felt somewhat dated, and the comfort of the seats, particularly in the F Sport, was less than ideal.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder, redesigned for the 2022 model year, carried over its modern aesthetic into 2023 with minimal changes. Its design combined traditional elements with forward-thinking features, resulting in a look that remained relevant. The interior boasted clean lines and a sensible layout, making it both visually appealing and practical. The Pathfinder offered a range of trims, each with varying levels of equipment, from the base S trim with standard AWD and an 8-inch touchscreen to the top-tier Platinum trim with advanced features like a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The Rock Creek trim added rugged styling and off-road capabilities, making it suitable for adventurous drivers. Overall, the Pathfinder's design and features catered to a wide range of preferences and needs.

The 2022 Lexus RX was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid RX 450h added electric motors for a combined output of 308 hp. All models featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of sporty driving dynamics and a less-than-impressive engine note. The F Sport models included performance dampers and adaptive variable suspension, but the differences in drive modes were subtle. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, providing a smooth ride and isolating road noise effectively. Fuel efficiency varied, with the RX 350 using 12.2 L/100 km in the city and 9.0 on the highway, while the RX 450h hybrid offered better efficiency at 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 284 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque. The Rock Creek trim tuned the engine to 295 hp and 270 lb-ft. Power was transmitted through a nine-speed automatic transmission to standard AWD. The Pathfinder's engine provided ample power for city and highway driving, and the automatic transmission was smooth and quiet. The Rock Creek trim added off-road capabilities with a taller suspension and off-road shocks, but the ride on regular roads was rougher due to the off-road tires. The Pathfinder featured a rotary drive mode dial with various modes, including Eco, Sport, and All-Terrain, enhancing its versatility. The Rock Creek trim also offered a higher towing capacity of 2,720 kilograms, making it suitable for towing needs.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered a passenger volume of 2,826 litres in its two-row configuration, comfortably accommodating four adults. The three-row L models had a tighter fit, with limited cargo space behind the third row. Cargo capacity varied, with 453 litres behind the second row in the standard RX and up to 1,657 litres with both back rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder, but the rear seats did not fold completely flat, and the load-in height was high due to the sporty bumper design.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder provided up to 2,279 litres of cargo space with the second and third rows folded flat. With the second row in use, it offered 1,274 litres of cargo space, and 470 litres with all seats upright. The Pathfinder's interior was spacious, with ample headroom and legroom in the first two rows, while the third row was suitable for shorter trips. The Platinum trim featured second-row captain's chairs with a removable centre console, enhancing versatility. The Pathfinder also boasted numerous cupholders and storage compartments, making it practical for families. The Rock Creek trim's roof racks were functional, supporting up to 100 kilograms, but their proximity to the roof made snow removal challenging.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 12.3-inch version available on higher trims. The touchscreens were positioned atop the centre stack, creating ergonomic challenges. The infotainment system was responsive but hindered by a hypersensitive touchpad and obstructive design. Despite these issues, the RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, Bluetooth, wireless charging, and a premium audio system. The Lexus App provided additional connectivity options.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 9-inch version on higher trims. The system was user-friendly, with logical menu layouts and real buttons and dials. While the graphics were not the most advanced, the system's ease of use was a highlight. The Pathfinder included four USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Higher trims added features like wireless device charging and additional USB ports, ensuring connectivity for all passengers.

The 2022 Lexus RX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, and a pre-collision system. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, but only with optional triple-beam LED headlights. It scored four stars overall from the NHTSA, with five stars in side crash tests.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder offered a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and ProPilot Assist. Higher trims added features like front parking sensors, a 360-degree parking monitor, and a head-up display. The Pathfinder received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, the highest ranking available. The NHTSA had not completed full crash tests for the 2023 model, but the 2022 model received favourable ratings.