2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder marked a significant design evolution, drawing inspiration from Nissan's modern SUV lineup. 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 contemporary touch, while the C-pillar design paid homage to the original Pathfinder. With 11 paint options and a distinctive black roof, the Pathfinder presented a robust and stylish appearance. The SUV's wider stance and increased height contributed to its rugged aesthetic, aligning it with competitors like the Kia Telluride. Inside, the Pathfinder offered a refined interior with upscale materials, especially in higher trims, positioning it as a strong contender against rivals such as the Highlander and Pilot.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota 4Runner retained its classic ruggedness, staying true to its roots as a truck-based SUV. Its design emphasized adventure, with a high ride height, boxy proportions, and a front bumper designed for off-road obstacles. The interior, however, showed its age, with a dash layout reminiscent of the late 2000s. Despite this, the 4Runner offered practical features like a power-sliding rear window and a straightforward infotainment system. Available in various trims, including the off-road-focused TRD models, the 4Runner catered to those seeking a vehicle capable of tackling challenging terrains. Its design and features highlighted its niche appeal, offering a nostalgic yet functional experience for off-road enthusiasts.

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, providing smoother gear transitions. The Pathfinder offered standard all-wheel drive in Canada, with hill descent control and seven drive modes. Its suspension provided a stable ride, absorbing road imperfections effectively. The Pathfinder boasted a 6,000-pound towing capacity, supported by trailer sway control technology, making it a reliable choice for towing needs.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner featured a 4.0-litre V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, offered reliable performance but felt underwhelming in most driving situations. The 4Runner's ride was harsh on paved roads, with noticeable body roll, but excelled off-road, where its suspension absorbed rough terrains effortlessly. The TRD models included features like Crawl Control and a locking differential, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The 4Runner had a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, suitable for light towing tasks.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder prioritized interior comfort, with enhanced sound insulation and thoughtful design features. It offered flexible seating arrangements, including optional second-row captain’s chairs and the ability to fit up to five car seats. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide system allowed easy access to the third row. The Pathfinder provided ample cargo space, with up to 2,421 litres available when the second and third rows were folded flat. Additional features included a removable second-row centre console and a spacious front centre console.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum of 2,540 litres of cargo space in the two-row version, slightly less in the three-row model. The three-row configuration increased seating capacity to seven but reduced cargo space. The 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a power-operated rear window for easy access. While the interior was not as spacious as newer SUVs, it provided adequate storage for gear and essentials.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came equipped with a range of technology features, including an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, and a 13-speaker Bose audio system. The Pathfinder's tech was user-friendly, with options for wireless charging and connected navigation.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, and multiple USB ports. While the system was straightforward, it lacked advanced features like a head-up display. The 4Runner's infotainment relied on tactile controls, appealing to those who preferred a simpler interface.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder included the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, offering features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. A rearview camera was standard, with a surround-view monitor available on higher trims. The Pathfinder had ten airbags, with an additional airbag in the Platinum trim.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner featured the Toyota Safety Sense suite, including forward automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. It received four stars in frontal and side-impact testing from the NHTSA, with three stars for rollover testing. The 4Runner was backed by a five-year/100,000-kilometre powertrain warranty.