2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder, in its fifth generation, embraced a robust and modern design, drawing inspiration from Nissan's latest SUV styling cues. It featured a reimagined V-motion grille, reminiscent of the Rogue and Armada, with the new Nissan logo prominently displayed. The LED headlights and slim daytime running lights added a sleek touch, while the bulky C-pillar paid homage to the original Pathfinder. With 11 paint options and a distinctive black roof, the Pathfinder presented a more rugged and capable image. The SUV's wider stance and increased height contributed to its planted look, while the interior offered a more upscale feel, especially in higher trims, rivaling competitors like the Highlander and Telluride.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Explorer showcased a sporty and athletic appearance, thanks to its rear-drive platform. The long hood, short front overhang, and rakish roofline gave it a taut look, while the blacked-out roof pillars created a floating roof effect. The Explorer's diverse model lineup meant that higher trims boasted a mix of quality materials, though some base trim elements were still evident. The interior, while mostly comfortable, had some shortcomings in terms of practical storage and third-row accessibility. Despite these, the Explorer maintained a robust and engaging driving experience, appealing to those seeking a more traditional SUV feel.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a new 9-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous CVT, and offered a smooth driving experience. The Pathfinder came with standard all-wheel drive in Canada, featuring hill descent control and seven drive modes. Its 6,000-pound towing capacity and tight turning radius made it a versatile family hauler, though the transmission occasionally struggled at speed. The Pathfinder's suspension provided a stable ride, absorbing road imperfections effectively.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains, starting with a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided a towing capacity of 5,300 pounds. The Explorer also offered a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.3-litre V6 engine, generating 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. For those seeking more power, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine was available, delivering 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 5,600 pounds. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and its sport-tuned ST model offered an engaging driving experience.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder prioritized interior comfort and flexibility, with improved insulation reducing road noise. The SUV's design focused on family needs, offering features like wide-opening doors, optional second-row captain’s chairs, and the ability to fit up to five car seats. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide system made third-row access easy, even with car seats installed. The Pathfinder provided ample cargo space, with 470 litres behind the third row and up to 2,421 litres with all seats folded. The interior offered abundant space, with heated and ventilated seats available in higher trims, and a motion-activated power liftgate standard on SL and Platinum models.

The 2022 Ford Explorer, while comfortable for families of four, had limitations in its third-row seating, which was best suited for children. Higher trims offered features like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain’s chairs. However, the Explorer's interior storage was lacking, with limited practical pockets and cubbies. The SUV provided 528 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,132 litres with all seats folded. Despite these limitations, the Explorer's hands-free power liftgate and thoughtful cupholder placement added convenience.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came equipped with a wealth of technology, even in lower trims. Standard features included an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system. The Pathfinder Platinum featured a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument panel and a head-up display, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered two versions of its Sync 3 infotainment system, with either an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The larger screen, though functional, appeared as an afterthought in the dashboard design. The Explorer's technology suite included FordPass Connect services, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system in higher trims. However, the older Sync 3 system struggled with voice recognition, highlighting the need for an upgrade to Sync 4 technology.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder featured Nissan Safety Shield 360 as standard, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. A rearview camera was standard, with a surround-view monitor available in upper trims. The Pathfinder Platinum offered 11 airbags, while other trims had 10. However, crash-test ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were not available.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated smoothly, though the steering wheel's sensitivity to driver presence was occasionally problematic. NHTSA ratings were incomplete, but the previous year's model received five-star ratings in most categories.