2022 Subaru Outback vs 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

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 a bulky C-pillar and a three-slot grille. The SUV was available in 11 paint jobs, with an optional black roof that extended onto the C-pillar. The Pathfinder's side panels and hood gave it a robust appearance, aligning more with the Kia Telluride's design than the Toyota Highlander's. The vehicle was slightly wider and taller than its predecessor, offering more legroom despite being shorter in length. The interior was upscale, especially in higher trims, with options for semi-aniline leather-appointed seats and a panoramic moonroof.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness pushed the boundaries of the traditional station wagon, resembling more of a Jeep with its increased ground clearance of 23 cm. It featured aggressive all-terrain tires, oversized fender protection, and restyled bumpers for improved approach and departure angles. The unique grille design, black 17-inch wheels, and Anodized Copper accents added to its rugged look. The interior was dominated by dark gray StarTex upholstery, which was water-repellant but could be uncomfortable in hot weather. The Outback Wilderness was equipped with a robust roof rack capable of supporting a 700-pound static load, making it ideal for rooftop camping. The vehicle's modifications injected personality into its styling, appealing to those seeking adventure.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a new 9-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous CVT. The Pathfinder offered standard AWD in Canada, with hill descent control and seven drive modes. It had a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds and featured trailer sway control technology. The suspension provided a stable ride, and the steering was responsive, making it easy to maneuver in various conditions.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-litre 4-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It had a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The Wilderness trim featured a CVT with eight programmed ratios, but its performance was less satisfying compared to a dual-clutch transmission. The vehicle's standout features included its 23 cm ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and improved approach and departure angles. The dual function X-Mode traction system and hill descent control enhanced its off-road capabilities, making it the most capable Outback ever.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder's interior was designed for comfort and flexibility. It featured improved insulation for a quieter ride and offered best-in-class front-seat legroom. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide second-row seat technology allowed easy access to the third row. The Pathfinder provided ample cargo space, with 470 litres behind the third row and up to 2,421 litres with the second and third rows folded flat. The interior was equipped with heated front seats, a 10-way power adjustable driver's seat, and tri-zone automatic climate control.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured dark gray StarTex upholstery, which was water-repellant but could be uncomfortable in hot weather. The interior offered generous rear seat head and legroom, with heated rear seats and dual USB charging ports. The cargo area provided 920 litres of space behind the rear seat and 2,144 litres with the rear seat folded flat. The Outback Wilderness also had a robust roof rack with a 700-pound static load rating, suitable for rooftop camping.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came equipped with a range of technology features, including an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a 7-inch digital driver-information display. Upper 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.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with integrated climate control. While it had physical knobs for volume and tuning, most functions required the touchscreen. The voice recognition technology was less intuitive, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offered better voice assistant functionality. The Outback Wilderness lacked a premium audio system, which was available in other trims.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder was equipped with Nissan Safety Shield 360, which included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. It also featured a driver alertness monitor and rear cross-traffic alert. The Pathfinder Platinum had an additional airbag, totaling 11.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured the EyeSight suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. It also had steering-responsive LED headlights and a blind-spot warning system. The Outback Wilderness's EyeSight technology was effective and non-intrusive, providing a Level 2 ADAS experience.