2023 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a staple in the crossover SUV market, evolved significantly from its original 1996 model. Initially launched as a compact alternative to larger SUVs, the RAV4 quickly gained popularity among young buyers, leading to the creation of similar models by competitors. Over five generations, the RAV4 expanded in size and sophistication, shedding its "cute ute" label to become a mature and leading crossover SUV. The 2022 model, part of a 2019 redesign, maintained its position at the top of SUV sales charts in Canada. Its exterior design, while fitting in with current crossover trends, featured distinctive angular flourishes and expressive headlights, giving it a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a layered dash with contrasting textures and colours, a user-friendly touchscreen interface, and unique design elements that tied the cabin together.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder, redesigned for the 2022 model year, carried over into 2023 with minimal changes, except for the new Rock Creek trim. Its design combined futuristic headlights with traditional elements, resulting in a modern SUV that remained relevant over time. The interior featured clean lines and a sensible layout, making it both visually appealing and practical. The Pathfinder offered various trims in Canada, each with distinct features, from the base S trim with standard AWD and an 8-inch touchscreen to the top-tier Platinum trim with advanced technology and luxury features. The Rock Creek trim, with its rugged styling and off-road capabilities, added a unique option for adventurous drivers. Overall, the Pathfinder's design and features catered to a wide range of preferences and needs.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrain options, starting with a gasoline-only model featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This model came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available on all but the base model. Fuel economy varied slightly between FWD and AWD models, with combined ratings ranging from 7.9 to 8.5 L/100 km. The RAV4 Hybrid used a similar engine paired with an electric motor, delivering 217 combined net horsepower and impressive fuel economy ratings of 5.8 L/100 km city and 6.0 combined. The RAV4 Prime, a plug-in hybrid, boasted 302 horsepower and could run up to 68 kilometres on electricity alone, with a combined efficiency rating of 2.5 Le/100 km. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and dynamic torque vectoring for improved cornering.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 284 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque. The Rock Creek trim offered a slightly more powerful version with 295 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. All models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The Pathfinder's off-road capabilities were enhanced in the Rock Creek trim, which included a taller suspension and off-road shocks. While the off-road tires provided a rougher ride on highways, they offered a more comfortable experience on trails. The Pathfinder's engine delivered ample power for city and highway driving, though the new shifter design was less intuitive. The vehicle featured a rotary drive mode dial with various settings, including an All-Terrain mode in the Rock Creek trim, and a downhill crawl assist button for off-road adventures. The Pathfinder's towing capacity ranged from 1,587 kilograms to 2,720 kilograms, depending on the trim.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, while still classified as a small SUV, offered impressive cargo space with up to 1,977 litres available when the second row was folded flat. With the second row in use, it provided 1,059 litres of luggage space. The RAV4's towing capacity varied by model, with Trail and TRD Off-Road models capable of towing up to 1,588 kilograms. Inside, the RAV4 was spacious and comfortable for four passengers, with ample legroom and headroom in the front seats. The interior featured numerous storage options, including cupholders, bottle holders, and a roomy glove compartment. The middle seat in the second row was less desirable but still functional for short trips.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder offered up to 2,279 litres of cargo space with both the second and third rows folded flat. With the second row in use, it provided 1,274 litres of cargo space, and with all seats upright, 470 litres. The Pathfinder's interior was spacious, with plenty of headroom and legroom in the first two rows, while the third row was suitable for adults on shorter trips. The Platinum trim featured second-row captain's chairs with a removable centre console and quick-release functionality for easy access to the third row. The Pathfinder boasted 12 cupholders and four bottle holders throughout the cabin, along with numerous cubbies and compartments for storage. The Rock Creek trim's roof racks were practical and could hold up to 100 kilograms, though their proximity to the roof made snow removal challenging.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with a range of technology features, starting with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, six-speaker audio, and smartphone integration. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen with an 11-speaker JBL audio system, navigation, and additional connectivity features. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology, including multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and ambient lighting. Some top trims also featured a wireless charging pad, bird's-eye view camera system, and a head-up display.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, though some users found the graphics dated. The Pathfinder included four USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The SV trim added a third-row USB port, while the SL trim introduced wireless charging and additional USB ports. Although not the most cutting-edge, the Pathfinder's technology was functional and user-friendly.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with Toyota's Star Safety System, which included stability control, traction control, anti-lock braking, and more. It also featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, a suite of driver-assist systems, and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star rating.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder came with a comprehensive set of driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, collision warning, and ProPilot Assist. The SL trim added traffic-sign recognition, while the Platinum trim included rain-sensing wipers. The Pathfinder was rated as a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.