2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2023 Mazda CX-50

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder showcased a bold new design that drew inspiration from the automaker'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 exuded a robust and rugged aesthetic. The SUV's wider stance and increased height contributed to its commanding presence on the road, while the interior offered a blend of upscale materials and practical features, positioning it as a strong contender in the midsize SUV market.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-50 embraced a sleek and seductive design, characterized by its blunt nose, long hood, and rakish windshield. The cabin, set back towards the rear wheels, added to its sporty appeal. The CX-50's ruggedness was evident in its fender swells, body cladding, and skid plates, while the oversized air intakes and vents hinted at performance. The Meridian Edition further enhanced its adventurous spirit with exclusive wheels and all-terrain tires. Inside, the CX-50 boasted a driver-focused design with quality materials and polished metallic trim. Despite some storage limitations, the interior was comfortable and stylish, making it an attractive option for those seeking a compact crossover with a touch of elegance.

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 easy to maneuver in urban settings. With a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds, it was well-suited for hauling needs, although the transmission occasionally required recalibration at speed.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered two engine options: a 187 hp 2.5-litre four-cylinder and a turbocharged variant producing up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. The turbo engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, provided smooth acceleration and a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. Mazda's i-Activ AWD system and Mi-Drive modes ensured adaptable performance across various terrains. The CX-50's ride quality was firm yet comfortable, with minimal turbo lag and a driving experience reminiscent of a sporty wagon. However, some torque steer was noted during tight turns, and the lack of downhill assist control limited its off-road capabilities.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder prioritized interior comfort with enhanced sound insulation and thoughtful design features. The spacious cabin accommodated up to eight passengers, with flexible seating options and best-in-class front-seat legroom. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide system facilitated easy access to the third row, while the removable second-row centre console added convenience. With up to 2,421 litres of cargo space, the Pathfinder offered ample room for various needs. Heated and ventilated seats, tri-zone climate control, and numerous cup holders further enhanced its family-friendly appeal.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 provided a comfortable and well-equipped interior, featuring heated and ventilated seats, dual-zone climate control, and a heated steering wheel. The front seats offered long-distance comfort, while the rear seats accommodated adults with ease. Although storage space was somewhat limited, the CX-50's cargo area offered 889 litres of space, expandable to 1,595 litres with the rear seats folded. The power rear liftgate and thoughtful design elements, such as side bins and grocery bag hooks, added practicality to its stylish interior.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology features, including an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 7-inch digital driver-information display. Upper trims offered a 9-inch screen, wireless charging, and a 13-speaker Bose audio system. The Pathfinder's user-friendly interface and extensive connectivity options made it a tech-savvy choice for modern drivers.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While the system lacked touchscreen functionality for native controls, it allowed touch input for smartphone integration. The available 12-speaker Bose sound system and Active Driving Display added to its tech appeal, though the user interface could be distracting at times.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder was equipped with 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 boasted ten airbags, with an additional airbag in the Platinum trim, ensuring comprehensive safety coverage.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with some limitations in headlight configurations and pedestrian collision avoidance. It offered a robust package of driving assistance systems, including active blind-spot monitoring and Traffic Jam Assist. However, the adaptive cruise control occasionally struggled to detect vehicles cutting into the lane, highlighting a need for improved sensitivity.