2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2022 Genesis GV70

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder showcased a bold redesign, drawing inspiration from Nissan's new SUV design language. It featured a modern take on the V-motion grille, complemented by LED headlights and slim daytime running lights. The design paid homage to the original Pathfinder with elements like the three-slot grille and bulky C-pillar. The Pathfinder was available in 11 paint jobs, with a black roof option that added to its rugged appeal. The SUV's side panels and hood gave it a robust look, reminiscent of the Kia Telluride, while the sleek taillights and bold badging added to its aesthetic. The Pathfinder was slightly wider and taller than its predecessor, offering more legroom and a planted look on the road. It came in four trim levels, each with distinct features like body-colour door handles and chrome accents. The interior was upscale, especially in higher trims, with options for semi-aniline leather-appointed seats and a panoramic moonroof.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 stood out with its unique styling, diverging from the rest of the Genesis lineup. It featured the brand's two-line lighting signature, creating an illusion of a contiguous circle around the vehicle. The GV70's design included a distinct shoulder line and unique accent lines around the side windows. Dark chrome finishes and a cross-hatched matrix pattern on the Sport grades emphasized its sporty intent. Genesis offered a wide range of colour combinations, with 12 exterior paint options and nine interior choices. The cabin featured an elliptical theme inspired by airplane wings, with options for genuine carbon fibre inserts in the Sport trims. The interior surfaces were of high quality, with quilted leather seats and door panels in premium grades. The GV70's design and colour options allowed for a high degree of personalization, making it a standout choice for those seeking a unique and stylish SUV.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. While it didn't offer alternative fuel options, the engine was paired with a new 9-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous CVT. This transmission, sourced from ZF, provided smooth gear transitions and was complemented by an electronic shift-by-wire drive selector and paddle shifters. The Pathfinder came with standard all-wheel drive in Canada, featuring hill descent control and seven drive and terrain modes. Although fuel consumption estimates were not available, the Pathfinder's suspension offered a stable ride, absorbing road imperfections effectively. Its steering was responsive, and the tight turning radius made it easy to manoeuvre in urban and off-road settings. The Pathfinder boasted a 6,000-pound towing capacity, with standard stabilizing trailer sway control technology ensuring stability during towing.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered two engine options, with the 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 being the more powerful choice, producing 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. This engine positioned the GV70 against mid-level performance competitors like the BMW X3 M40i and Audi SQ5. The GV70's fuel consumption was estimated at 11.6 L/100 km combined, with real-world testing showing slightly lower figures. The SUV featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, prioritizing the rear axle for torque distribution. The Sport Plus grade included an electronic limited-slip differential, enhancing performance. The GV70 offered Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ drive modes, with Sport+ delivering aggressive throttle response and gear holding. The electronically controlled suspension system used a forward camera to adapt to road conditions, balancing comfort and feedback. The GV70's tight turning radius was advantageous in urban environments.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder prioritized interior comfort with enhanced sound insulation, reducing road and engine noise. The design focused on flexibility, accommodating various family needs. Features like wide-opening doors, optional second-row captain’s chairs, and the ability to fit three car seats across the second-row bench were customer-driven innovations. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide second-row seat technology allowed easy third-row access, even with a car seat installed. The removable second-row centre console added convenience, while the front centre console offered 13.4 litres of storage space. The Pathfinder provided 470 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,274 litres with the third row folded, and 2,421 litres with both rows down. The flush rear cargo space sides facilitated easy loading, and the under-floor cargo space offered additional storage. The Pathfinder's seating was spacious and comfortable, with heated front seats standard and ventilated seats available in higher trims. Tri-zone automatic climate control and ample cup holders added to the vehicle's practicality.

The 2022 Genesis GV70's interior was driver-focused, with a tall centre console separating the front seats. The intuitive button and dial controls, including a dial-based gear selector, were within easy reach. The climate controls were configured under a single pane, providing haptic feedback for inputs. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, with ventilated front seats and heated rear seats available in higher trims. The right rear passenger could adjust the front passenger seat for legroom, and a panoramic sunroof added natural light. However, second-row storage was limited, with only a few cupholders and small door pockets. The GV70 offered 819 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 1,610 litres with the seats folded. The tonneau cover could be stowed under the rear load floor. Overall, the GV70's ergonomics and functionality were above average, despite some minor drawbacks.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder was equipped with a range of technology features that were user-friendly and effective. Standard features included a six-speaker audio system, 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Siri Eyes Free, Google Assistant Voice Recognition, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and hands-free text messaging. The Pathfinder also offered a 7-inch digital driver-information display, multiple USB ports, and two 12-volt DC power outlets. Higher trims featured a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument panel, a head-up display, and a 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system. The upper trim levels also included a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless charging pad, wireless Apple CarPlay, and additional USB ports.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 excelled in technology, featuring a 14.5-inch high-definition LCD infotainment screen as standard. The screen's wide layout allowed for a split-screen display, accommodating both in-car functions and smartphone integration. The premium Sport Plus grade included a 3D digital instrument cluster, offering a unique visual experience. The GV70 also introduced a fingerprint recognition system for keyless vehicle start. A nine-speaker audio system was standard, with an 18-speaker Lexicon surround sound system available on top grades. The GV70's technology offerings were comprehensive, enhancing the driving experience with advanced features.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, a suite of safety features including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, high-beam assist, and rear automatic braking. Additional standard features included a driver alertness monitor, rear door alert, and forward-collision warning. A rearview camera was standard, with a surround-view monitor available on upper trims. The Pathfinder featured ten airbags, with the Platinum trim offering an additional airbag. However, safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 included ten standard safety features and driver assist technologies, such as blind spot collision avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The GV70 also featured a new rear occupant alert system using radar to detect movement in the second row. The Genesis Highway Driving Assist system, with lane centring and automatic lane changing functions, was standard. This system was not hands-free but provided enhanced blind spot warning capabilities. Safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available, but the GV70's onboard systems were of high quality.