2023 Dodge Durango vs 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder showcased a bold new design, drawing inspiration from Nissan's latest SUV styling trends. 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 modern 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 contemporary aesthetic. The SUV's wider stance and increased height contributed to its rugged appearance, positioning it as a capable and adventurous choice for buyers. Inside, the Pathfinder offered a refined interior with upscale materials, especially in higher trims, rivaling competitors like the Highlander and Telluride.

In contrast, the 2023 Dodge Durango maintained its familiar yet attractive design, avoiding the oversized grille trend. Its sleek styling, complemented by forward-leaning headlights and signature "racetrack" taillights, gave it a distinctive look. The SRT models featured subtle yet unique styling elements, such as a Viper-like hood and specialized wheels. Dodge expanded the colour palette for 2023, adding vibrant options like Frostbite and Red Oxide. Inside, the Durango offered a comfortable environment with materials suited to each trim level. The Citadel trim added luxury features like Nappa leather and heated seats, while the SRT Hellcat model boasted bold red leather upholstery, enhancing its sporty appeal.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a new 9-speed automatic transmission, the Pathfinder offered smooth gear transitions and improved driving dynamics. Standard all-wheel drive in Canada, along with hill descent control and seven drive modes, enhanced its versatility. The Pathfinder's suspension provided a stable ride, and its tight turning radius made it maneuverable in urban and off-road settings. With a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds, the Pathfinder was well-suited for hauling needs, supported by trailer sway control technology.

The 2023 Dodge Durango offered a range of powertrains, starting with the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine, producing up to 295 horsepower. The 5.7-litre Hemi V8, standard on the R/T trim, delivered 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, providing a classic V8 experience. The SRT 392 model featured a 6.4-litre Hemi V8 with 475 hp, achieving impressive acceleration figures. The SRT Hellcat variant took performance to another level with a 6.2-litre supercharged V8, generating 710 hp and 645 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful SUVs available. Despite its size, the Durango Hellcat offered exhilarating acceleration and a thrilling driving experience, supported by adaptive-damping suspension and Brembo brakes.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder prioritized interior comfort and flexibility. Enhanced insulation and acoustic glass reduced road noise, creating a quieter cabin. The Pathfinder's design focused on family-friendly features, such as wide-opening doors, optional second-row captain's chairs, and the ability to accommodate up to five car seats. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide system facilitated easy third-row access, even with car seats installed. The removable second-row centre console added convenience, while the front console offered ample storage space. With up to 2,421 litres of cargo space, the Pathfinder provided generous storage options, and its flush rear cargo space sides made loading large items easy.

The 2023 Dodge Durango offered seating configurations for six or seven passengers, with second-row captain's chairs available on higher trims. Interior space was competitive with other midsize SUVs, providing adequate headroom and legroom across all rows. The Durango's cargo capacity reached 2,409 litres with the rear seats folded, though it fell short of some competitors. Small-item storage was plentiful, with a wireless charging pad and USB ports for convenience. While a power liftgate was available, the lack of a power-folding third row was a drawback for higher trims. The Durango excelled in towing capacity, with V8 models capable of towing up to 8,700 pounds.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology features. Standard offerings included an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims added a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and a 13-speaker Bose audio system. The Pathfinder Platinum featured a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument panel and a head-up display, enhancing the driving experience. With multiple USB ports and a wireless charging pad, the Pathfinder catered to modern connectivity needs.

The 2023 Dodge Durango featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on lower trims, while higher trims received a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity. The Uconnect infotainment system, known for its user-friendly interface, was available in both versions. The SRT models included performance-oriented features like the Performance Pages app, providing real-time performance data. A 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system was available on higher trims, delivering an immersive audio experience.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder offered a comprehensive suite of safety features through Nissan Safety Shield 360, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. A rearview camera was standard, with a surround-view monitor available on upper trims. The Pathfinder featured ten airbags, with an additional airbag on the Platinum trim. However, crash test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available for this model.

The 2023 Dodge Durango received mixed safety ratings. The IIHS awarded it "Good" marks in some tests but rated it "Marginal" in the driver-side small overlap front test. The NHTSA gave the Durango a four-star overall safety rating, with five stars in the side crash test. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, but advanced driver-assist technologies were not standard across all trims.