2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder showcased a bold new design that drew inspiration from the brand'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 bulky C-pillar 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, aligning it with competitors like the Kia Telluride.

Inside, the Pathfinder offered a spacious and upscale environment, especially in higher trims. The interior design aimed to position the vehicle as more capable and rugged, with features like body-colour door handles, chrome accents, and privacy glass. The Pathfinder accommodated up to eight passengers, with the option for second-row captain's chairs in the Platinum trim. The use of semi-aniline leather and quilted seats in the top trims elevated the interior's luxury feel, making it competitive with other midsize SUVs like the Highlander and Palisade.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication with its elegant exterior design, featuring quad-lamp headlights and a bold grille. The SUV's stately presence was enhanced by its nearly 5-metre length and 22-inch alloy wheels on the Prestige trim. The rear design echoed the quad-lamp theme, and the matte Brunswick Green paint added a touch of elegance. Inside, the GV80 continued the luxurious theme with quilted leather seats, metal and matte wood trim, and a unique two-spoke steering wheel. The centre console featured three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes, while the spacious interior offered a comfortable and upscale experience.

Despite a minor quibble with the 14.5-inch infotainment screen's placement, the GV80's interior was a luxurious and inviting space. The SUV offered a range of features, including a 21-speaker Lexicon sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and a suede headliner. The GV80's interior was designed to provide a high level of comfort and convenience, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a premium driving experience.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. While some may have hoped for alternative fuel options, the V6 provided ample power for most driving needs. The engine was paired with a new 9-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous CVT, and offered smooth gear transitions. The Pathfinder's standard all-wheel-drive system in Canada included hill descent control and seven drive modes, enhancing its versatility. Although fuel consumption estimates were not available, the Pathfinder's suspension improvements contributed to a stable and comfortable ride.

The Pathfinder's steering was responsive, making it easy to manoeuvre in various settings, from city streets to off-road trails. With a maximum towing capacity of 2,720 kilograms, the Pathfinder was well-suited for hauling needs. The transmission occasionally struggled at higher speeds, but a brief adjustment of the throttle allowed it to recalibrate effectively. The SUV's trailer sway control technology ensured stable towing performance, comparable to the Subaru Ascent.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6. Our tester featured the latter, producing 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While not the quickest in its class, the GV80 excelled in highway driving, with smooth power delivery and shifts. The electronically controlled suspension, combined with active noise cancellation, provided a serene and comfortable highway experience.

The GV80's handling was competent, though it lacked the agility of some German rivals. The SUV's advanced suspension system scanned the road for imperfections, ensuring a smooth ride. Despite its slower acceleration, the GV80's overall performance was well-suited for long-distance travel, offering a refined and comfortable driving experience.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder prioritized interior comfort and flexibility, with enhanced sound insulation and acoustic laminated glass reducing road noise. The SUV's design focused on accommodating families, with features like wide-opening doors, optional second-row captain's chairs, and the ability to fit three car seats across the second-row bench. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide system allowed for easy third-row access, even with a car seat installed. The removable second-row centre console added convenience, while the front console offered ample storage space.

Cargo capacity was a strong point for the Pathfinder, with 470 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,274 litres with the third row folded, and 2,421 litres with both rear rows down. The flush rear cargo space sides facilitated easy loading of large items, and the under-floor cargo space provided additional storage. The Pathfinder's seating was comfortable, with heated front seats standard and ventilated seats available in the Platinum trim. Tri-zone climate control and numerous cup holders added to the SUV's practicality.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered a luxurious interior with standard heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Nappa leather seats were adjustable and featured an Ergo driver’s seat to reduce fatigue. While a third row was available, legroom was limited, making it suitable for children. The GV80's interior was equipped with Genesis puddle lamps, a proximity key, and a digital key for added convenience.

The GV80 boasted a spacious cargo area, with 988 litres behind the second row and 2,378 litres with the seats folded. The SUV's towing capacity matched the Pathfinder's at 2,720 kilograms. The GV80's interior was designed for comfort and luxury, with features like a tri-zone climate control system, a 21-speaker Lexicon sound system, and a panoramic sunroof enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder was equipped with a range of technology features designed to enhance the driving experience without overwhelming users. Standard features included an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Siri Eyes Free, Google Assistant Voice Recognition, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Pathfinder also offered a 7-inch digital driver-information display and multiple USB ports for device charging.

Higher trim levels added a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a head-up display, and a 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system. The Pathfinder's technology package was comprehensive, providing drivers with the tools they needed for a connected and enjoyable driving experience.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. While the infotainment screen's placement was slightly inconvenient, the system offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though not wirelessly. The GV80 included wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a 110-volt outlet to keep devices powered.

The GV80's remote smart parking assist was a standout feature, allowing the vehicle to park itself without the driver inside. This technology, combined with the SUV's advanced infotainment system, provided a modern and convenient driving experience.

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

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver aids, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Blind-Spot View Monitor system provided a video feed of the car's blind spot, enhancing safety. The GV80's Highway Drive Assist offered hands-on/eyes-up driving aid, though it struggled in certain lighting conditions.

The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and high ratings from the IIHS, though its headlights and LATCH system were rated as Acceptable.